If you're craving a burst of flavor in a bowl, look no further than this Cilantro Lime Chicken Soup! This vibrant Mexican-inspired dish combines tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, and sweet corn, all brought together with a refreshing lime twist and the aromatic essence of fresh cilantro. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you'll be serving up a comforting bowl of goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into this culinary delight? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add the drained and rinsed black beans and corn to the simmering broth. Stir to combine and let cook for 5 minutes to heat through.
- Incorporate the shredded cooked chicken into the soup, stirring gently to distribute evenly.
- Sprinkle cumin into the soup and season with salt and pepper. Stir to blend the spices throughout the liquid.
- Squeeze the fresh lime juice into the soup, stirring to distribute the bright citrus flavor.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the freshly chopped cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with extra cilantro leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side.
Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and toss it in for an instant flavor boost!
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you incorporate the spices.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Fresh lime juice and cilantro make a significant difference in flavor. Try to use them instead of dried alternatives for the best results.
- Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and add them in with the corn and beans.
- Serve with Toppings: Enhance your soup experience by serving it with toppings like avocado slices, tortilla strips, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even tastier!
- Freezing Tips: If you want to make a big batch, this soup freezes well. Just leave out the cilantro until you reheat it for the best flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
