Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Soup

This Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Soup is a vibrant and hearty recipe, which uses boneless chicken breasts and diced tomatoes. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 5 minutes.

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Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Soup Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 cups chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• Optional garnishes: avocado slices, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, sour cream

How To Make Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Soup

1. Cook the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and shred the chicken with two forks. Reserve the stock.
2. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Add seasonings and tomatoes: Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add diced tomatoes with their juice and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine and simmer: Return reserved chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a simmer and add shredded chicken. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Finish and garnish: Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with garnishes like avocado, tortilla strips, cheese, or cilantro.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, it’s a great time-saver. Skip the initial cooking step and use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken.
• How to make it spicier: Add jalapeño, hot sauce, or increase the chili powder.
• Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• What can I substitute for chicken breasts? Chicken thighs work well and add more flavor.
• How to thicken the soup: Add a bit of masa harina or blend some of the soup before serving.

What To Serve With Mexican Chicken Soup

This flavorful soup pairs well with simple sides:

• Warm flour or corn tortillas
• Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
• Cornbread or cheesy bread
• A side salad with avocado dressing
• Chips and salsa or guacamole

How To Store Mexican Chicken Soup

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Freeze: Freeze cooled soup in airtight containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Mexican Chicken Soup Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on Low for 6-7 hours or High for 3-4 hours after sautéing the vegetables.

What are the best toppings?
Tortilla strips, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro are all great options.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I add beans or corn?
Definitely. Black beans and corn make great additions.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the stock and garnishes are gluten-free.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Winter Minestrone Soup Recipe
• Barefoot Contessa Cream of Fresh Tomato Soup Recipe
• Ina Garten Fish Chowder Recipe