Introduction

The Tex-Mex Chicken and Black Bean Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together vibrant flavors and nutrients. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet quick to prepare. With just five key ingredients and a cooking time of 15 minutes, this soup stands out as a deliciously satisfying meal.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breasts, diced (500g)
– Canned black beans, rinsed and drained (400g)
– Diced tomatoes (400g)
– Chicken broth (1 liter)
– Taco seasoning (2 tablespoons)

Prep Time

Preparation time for this soup is approximately 10 minutes. During this time, you can prepare your ingredients by dicing the chicken and rinsing the beans.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the Tex-Mex Chicken and Black Bean Soup is about 15 minutes. Therefore, the total time from start to finish is around 25 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it an ideal option for family dinners or meal prep.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Rinse and drain the black beans. Cut the chicken into small pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spices

Stir in your choice of Tex-Mex spices, such as cumin and chili powder. Cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Beans

Stir in the black beans and let them heat through in the soup, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor.

Notes

Note 1: Spice Adjustment

Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your personal taste preference.

Note 2: Bean Options

Other types of beans can also be used if preferred, such as pinto or kidney beans.

Note 3: Cooking Time

Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking; it should be tender but not dry.

Note 4: Storage

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs well with tortilla chips or cornbread as a side dish.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a quick cooking technique that uses a small amount of oil in a pan over medium to high heat. It’s ideal for cooking vegetables and proteins, allowing them to develop flavor without becoming greasy.

Simmering

Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique helps to meld flavors, particularly in soups and stews, ensuring that ingredients cook evenly without breaking apart.

Shredding

Shredding is a technique used to cut cooked meat into small strips, enhancing texture and allowing it to absorb sauces or broths better, making it perfect for toppings or fillings.

Blending

Blending is used to mix ingredients into a smooth consistency. In soups, blending helps to create a creamy texture, allowing all components to combine seamlessly.

Garnishing

Garnishing is the art of adding decorative touches to a dish, enhancing both visual appeal and flavor. Common garnishes include fresh herbs, spices, or a drizzle of sauces, making the dish more inviting.

FAQ

Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute different types of beans based on your preference or what you have on hand, just ensure they are cooked properly.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for the chicken?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or additional beans for a vegetarian option.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the soup?

To modify the spice level, you can add more or less chili powder or include chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for longer storage.

What should I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with tortilla chips, bread, or a simple salad to create a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Tex-Mex chicken and black bean soup is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together vibrant ingredients for a hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers on taste without requiring extensive preparation. Enjoying it with various toppings can elevate the experience, making it a versatile choice for different preferences.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Black Bean Tacos

Use similar ingredients to create spicy black bean tacos. Fill soft tortillas with black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado, and your choice of protein for a delicious handheld meal.

Tex-Mex Quinoa Bowl

Combine cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a nutritious and filling bowl that can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Chicken Fajita Salad

Transform the flavors into a refreshing salad by adding grilled chicken, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes over a bed of lettuce, drizzled with a zesty dressing.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuff halved bell peppers with a mixture of chicken, black beans, rice, and spices, then bake until tender for a wholesome and visually appealing dish.

Tex-Mex Casserole

Layer tortilla chips, the chicken and black bean mixture, cheese, and your favorite toppings in a baking dish for a comforting casserole that’s great for feeding a crowd.