southwest chicken soup: 7 reasons you’ll absolutely love it

Name: southwest chicken soup: 7 reasons you'll absolutely love it
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can corn, drained; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

July 18, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that wraps you in a cozy hug, don’t you think? And let me tell you, this southwest chicken soup is a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance! The combination of spices, fresh veggies, and tender chicken creates a dish that’s not just hearty but also bursting with that vibrant southwestern flair. I remember the first time I made this soup—it was a chilly evening, and I was craving something comforting yet exciting. As soon as I took that first sip, I was hooked! The chili powder gives it a kick, while the cilantro adds a fresh touch that really brings everything together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it every week! Perfect for a family dinner or just a cozy night in, this soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

southwest chicken soup - detail 1

Ingredients for Southwest Chicken Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious southwest chicken soup. I promise, it’s all pretty straightforward and you might even have some of these ingredients in your pantry already!

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (trust me, this adds a lovely creaminess!)
1 can corn, drained (sweet corn brings a nice contrast to the spices)
1 can diced tomatoes (the juice adds so much flavor)
1 onion, chopped (I like to use yellow onion for sweetness)
2 cloves garlic, minced (more garlic equals more happiness!)
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color will do, but I love red for that sweetness)
4 cups chicken broth (homemade adds a special touch, but store-bought works just fine)
2 tsp chili powder (this is where the magic happens!)
1 tsp cumin (it adds that earthy depth)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on this—seasoning is key!)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (because it just makes everything look so pretty!)

Gather these goodies, and you’re on your way to making a bowl of soup that’s as comforting as a warm blanket on a chilly day!

How to Prepare Southwest Chicken Soup

Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this southwest chicken soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious soup ready in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. You want it nice and warm to get everything sautéing perfectly.
Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté these beauties for about 5 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. This is the foundation of flavor, so let them do their thing!
Now, add the minced garlic and give it a stir. Cook for just 1 minute—don’t walk away, or it might burn! We want that garlic to stay bright and flavorful.
It’s time to introduce the diced chicken! Add it to the pot and cook until it’s browned all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir it occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly.
Once the chicken is browned, it’s party time—add in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (juice and all!), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Bring the soup to a boil (you’ll see those bubbles popping up!), then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This is the magic moment when all those flavors meld together, so don’t rush it!
After 20 minutes, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a little extra chili powder if you like it spicier.
Finally, serve it hot and garnish with fresh cilantro. Wow, doesn’t that look inviting? Enjoy every spoonful of your homemade southwest chicken soup!

And there you have it! A simple yet satisfying recipe that will warm your soul. I bet you’ll be back for seconds (or maybe thirds) because it’s just that good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation—this soup comes together in just 45 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight!
Hearty and filling, thanks to the tender chicken and nutritious beans, it’s a meal in a bowl!
Flavor-packed with spices and fresh veggies, each spoonful is a delightful burst of southwestern goodness!
Customizable to your taste—feel free to adjust the heat or add extra veggies!
Easy cleanup—one pot means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious creation!
Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Kid-friendly—its mild yet flavorful profile makes it a hit with the whole family!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make this delicious southwest chicken soup, here are some pro tips to take it to the next level! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference.

Adjust the heat: If you like a bit more spice, don’t hesitate to add a dash of cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños. Start small and taste as you go—it’s easier to add heat than to take it away!
Texture tweak: For a creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup after it’s cooked. Just scoop out a cup or two, blend it until smooth, and stir it back in. It gives a lovely rich texture!
Vegetable variety: Feel free to toss in other veggies like zucchini, spinach, or even sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them up and add them in with the chicken for a hearty boost!
Fresh herbs: Besides cilantro, try adding some fresh lime juice or chopped green onions just before serving. It brightens up the flavors and makes your soup even more vibrant!
Storage tip: If you plan to save leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container without the cilantro garnish. Add fresh cilantro right before serving to keep it looking and tasting fresh!
Rotisserie chicken hack: To save time, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken. Just toss it in during the last 10 minutes of simmering to warm it through!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a southwest chicken soup that’s not just good, but totally fantastic! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! This southwest chicken soup not only warms your heart but also keeps things balanced on the plate. Here’s what you can expect in each satisfying serving:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

This soup packs in plenty of protein and fiber, making it a filling option without going overboard on calories. Plus, it’s low in fat, so you can enjoy a hearty bowl without the guilt! Perfect for those cozy nights when you want something nourishing and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This southwest chicken soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!

Can I freeze southwest chicken soup?
Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove!

What can I serve with this soup?
This soup is great on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, try pairing it with some warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh side salad. You can also top it with avocado, cheese, or sour cream for an extra creamy touch!

Can I use other types of meat?
Definitely! If chicken isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for turkey or even ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure to let it cool down first! Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and don’t forget to add a fresh sprinkle of cilantro before serving!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious southwest chicken soup ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete and satisfying meal! These pairings will not only complement the flavors of your soup but also make your dining experience even more delightful.

Warm Cornbread: There’s nothing quite like a slice of buttery cornbread to soak up all that flavorful broth. Trust me, the sweet and savory combo is just divine!
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping or crumbling over your soup for an added texture. Plus, they’re a great way to enjoy a little extra crunch!
Fresh Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. It’s like getting a burst of freshness with every bite!
Guacamole: Who doesn’t love guacamole? Scoop some onto your plate or right into your soup for a creamy, delicious addition that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Avocado Toast: Top some toasted bread with smashed avocado, a sprinkle of salt, and maybe a bit of lime juice for a simple yet delicious side that’s also super trendy!
Cheese Quesadillas: Melt some cheese between tortillas and grill them up until they’re golden brown. Slice them into triangles for easy dipping into your soup—yum!

With these tasty sides, you’ll have a meal that’s not only comforting but also full of flavor! Enjoy experimenting with different combinations, and find what works best for you!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve whipped up a fantastic batch of southwest chicken soup, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers so you can enjoy them later! Trust me, this soup is just as tasty the next day, if not better!

To store your soup, let it cool down to room temperature first. Once it’s cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. Make sure to leave a little space at the top, as the soup may expand when frozen. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure you label it with the date so you know when it was made!

If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Simply pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just take it out and let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

For reheating, you can either warm it on the stove or in the microwave. If using the stove, just pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely to prevent splatters. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot.

And here’s a quick tip: before serving, give it a taste! Sometimes, a little splash of fresh lime juice or an extra sprinkle of cilantro can really brighten up those flavors after storage. Enjoy your cozy bowl of southwest chicken soup again and again!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.