Southwest Chicken Soup

Southwest Chicken Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that combines bold flavors with a creamy texture. Ideal for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any cozy occasion, this soup is packed with black beans, corn, and cream cheese. Its easy preparation in a Crockpot makes it a go-to recipe for busy cooks, while its rich taste is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty soup, and you’ll find it’s even better than Chilis Southwest Chicken Soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just throw everything in your Crockpot and let it cook. No fuss, no mess!
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of black beans, corn, and cream cheese creates a rich, satisfying flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or served with crusty bread or tortilla chips.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for feeding a crowd; this recipe yields eight hearty servings.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both nutritious and filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (Crockpot): This appliance lets you set it and forget it; perfect for busy days.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for the best flavor balance.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables without damaging your countertops.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, saving you prep time.

Ingredients

For this Southwest Chicken Soup recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 15.5 ounces black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15.25 ounces corn (undrained)
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 14.5 ounces chicken broth
• 4 ounces diced green chilies (undrained)

Seasonings

• 1 ounce dry ranch seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 Tablespoon chili powder

Fresh Ingredients

• 1/2 cup diced onion

Protein

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 cups)

Creamy Element

• 8 ounces cream cheese (one brick) (room temperature)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Southwest Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients

In your slow cooker, add:
1. Black beans,
2. Corn,
3. Diced tomatoes,
4. Chicken broth,
5. Diced green chilies.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in:
1. Dry ranch seasoning,
2. Cumin,
3. Chili powder.

Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken

Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts directly into the mixture in the Crockpot.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and set your slow cooker to low heat for about four hours or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the soup. Shred them using two forks before returning them to the pot.

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese

Stir in room temperature cream cheese until melted and well incorporated into the soup.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying!

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Soup

Serving Southwest Chicken Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you prefer a simple bowl or a more elaborate presentation, there are many ways to enhance this dish.

Toppings

• Avocado slices: Add fresh avocado on top for creaminess.
• Shredded cheese: Sprinkle cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
• Fresh cilantro: Garnish with chopped cilantro to give a fresh taste.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the spices.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Serve with warm cornbread for a classic pairing.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping and adding texture.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors beautifully.

Bowls

• Bread bowls: Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread for a fun presentation.
• Individual ramekins: Use small ramekins for individual servings, perfect for parties.

How to Perfect Southwest Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Southwest Chicken Soup ensures every bowl is delicious. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust spice levels: Tailor the heat by adding jalapeños or reducing chili powder.
• Let it simmer longer: The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
• Blend for creaminess: Blend part of the soup for a smoother texture if desired.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving; add salt or spices as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Southwest Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Southwest Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices complements the soup’s flavors perfectly.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds freshness and is great for dipping tortilla chips.
3. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and cheese make a hearty side.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add a healthy touch alongside the soup.
6. Flavored Tortillas: Try cilantro or spinach tortillas to add an interesting twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Southwest Chicken Soup, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a delicious outcome. Here are some tips to help you along the way.

• Bold phrase: Not rinsing beans – Failing to rinse black beans can lead to an overly salty soup. Always drain and rinse your beans before adding them to enhance flavor and reduce sodium content.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the cream cheese – Omitting cream cheese can result in a less creamy texture. For that rich, creamy finish, don’t skip this key ingredient!
• Bold phrase: Overcooking chicken – Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Add the chicken breasts whole and shred them after they’re cooked to maintain moisture.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring spice levels – Not adjusting spices may lead to a bland soup. Taste as you go, and feel free to add more chili powder or cumin based on your preference for heat.
• Bold phrase: Using cold ingredients – Starting with cold cream cheese or broth can affect cooking time. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Southwest Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
• Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion.

Reheating Southwest Chicken Soup

• Bold phrase: Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Bold phrase: Microwave – Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Bold phrase: Stovetop – Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Southwest Chicken Soup?

Southwest Chicken Soup is a flavorful dish made with chicken, black beans, corn, and spices. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare in a Crockpot.

How do I make Southwest Chicken Soup spicier?

To increase spiciness, consider adding jalapeños or more chili powder. Adjust according to your heat preference for the perfect kick!

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in Southwest Chicken Soup. Just shred it and add it during the last hour of cooking.

How can I customize Southwest Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also swap out black beans for pinto beans if preferred!

Final Thoughts

Southwest Chicken Soup is not just easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish fits perfectly. Customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients to make it truly yours! Enjoy delicious bowls of warmth that friends and family will love!

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Southwest Chicken Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Southwest Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of bold flavors and creamy textures that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty dish features tender chicken, black beans, corn, and a touch of cream cheese, making it comforting and satisfying. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy Crockpot recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully. With an impressive yield of eight servings, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this soup on its own or with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal that rivals restaurant offerings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 15.5 ounces black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15.25 ounces corn (undrained)
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 14.5 ounces chicken broth
• 4 ounces diced green chilies (undrained)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 ounce dry ranch seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 Tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. In a slow cooker, combine black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and green chilies.
2. Add ranch seasoning, cumin, and chili powder; mix well.
3. Place chicken breasts in the mixture.
4. Cover and cook on low for about four hours or until chicken is fully cooked.
5. Shred the chicken using two forks before returning it to the pot.
6. Stir in room temperature cream cheese until melted and incorporated.
7. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fat: 10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 5 grams
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 36 grams
• Fiber: 9 grams
• Protein: 30 grams
• Cholesterol: 85 mg