This Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup recipe is a wholesome and hearty dish packed with flavor. The unique blend of spices and the added heat from the picante sauce make it a perfect comfort food for any time of the year. With the addition of black beans, this soup is a nutritional powerhouse full of fiber and protein.
Some ingredients for this recipe that not commonly found in every home are ancho chile powder and rotel tomatoes with green chilies. Ancho chile powder is made from dried poblano peppers and provides a mild, sweet heat to dishes. You can find it in the spice aisle of most supermarkets. Rotel tomatoes are canned tomatoes mixed with green chilies. They can be found in the canned goods section.
Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup Ingredients
Black beans: Black beans are high in protein and fiber, and give this soup its hearty and filling quality.
Chicken broth: Chicken broth is used as a base for the soup, providing depth and flavor.
Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: These add a hint of spice and tanginess to the soup.
Red bell pepper: Red bell peppers add a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
Diced green chiles: These provide additional heat and flavor.
Ground cumin: Cumin lends a warm, earthy flavor.
Ancho chile powder: This spice adds a mild, sweet heat.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Onion powder: Onion powder contributes to the savory, robust flavor.
Oregano: Oregano adds an aromatic touch.
Chicken breast: Chicken breast adds lean protein to the soup.
Cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh and zesty flavor.
Scallions: Scallions provide a mild, sweet onion flavor.
Limes: Lime wedges can be squeezed over the soup for added tang.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
Sour cream: Sour cream can be dolloped on top for an extra creamy finish.
One reader, Aurie Jacobson says:
This picante chicken and black bean soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the spice level is just right. It's easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of chicken, beans, and spices creates a hearty and satisfying meal. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup Recipe
Puree the beans and broth: Blend one can of black beans with 2 cups of chicken broth until smooth, then add to the slow cooker.
Shred the chicken: After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and cumin to your preference before serving.
Serve with toppings: Serve the soup hot with lime wedges, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
How To Make Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup
Savor a warm and spicy dish with this slow-cooked picante chicken with black beans, tomatoes, and peppers, served with avocado slices and sour cream.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 30ozblack beans,(2 cans) rinsed and drained
- 3½cupschicken broth,low sodium
- 20ozRotel tomatoes with green chilies,(2 cans)
- 1red bell pepper,minced
- 4ozdiced green chiles
- 1tbspground cumin
- 1tspancho chile powder
- 1tspgarlic powder
- 1tsponion powder
- ¼tsporegano
- 16ozchicken breast,skinless
- ½cupcilantro,chopped, divided
- 2medium scallions,diced
- cut limes,for serving
- 1haas medium avocado,sliced
- sour cream,for serving, optional
Instructions
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Take 1 can of beans and place in the blender along with 2 cups of the chicken broth. Puree then add to the slow cooker.
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Add the remainder of the beans and chicken broth into the slow cooker along with tomatoes, bell pepper, diced green chiles, cumin, chile powder, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chicken breast, and ¼ cup of the cilantro.
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Set slow cooker to High for 4 hours or Low for 6 to 8 hours.
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After it’s done, remove chicken and shred with 2 forks.
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Place back into the slow cooker and add fresh scallions, remainder cilantro and adjust salt and cumin, to taste.
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Serve hot with lime wedges, avocados, and sour cream if desired. Makes about 10½ cups.
Nutrition
- Calories: 676.90kcal
- Fat: 13.94g
- Saturated Fat: 3.22g
- Trans Fat: 0.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.29g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.99g
- Carbohydrates: 97.44g
- Fiber: 23.90g
- Sugar: 11.04g
- Protein: 46.10g
- Cholesterol: 45.07mg
- Sodium: 242.84mg
- Calcium: 207.74mg
- Potassium: 2656.93mg
- Iron: 9.18mg
- Vitamin A: 115.70µg
- Vitamin C: 270.70mg
Technique Tip for Enhancing the Flavor of Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup
When shredding the chicken, it's best to do so while it's still warm. This makes the process easier and the meat will shred more evenly. Also, using two forks, hold the chicken steady with one fork and use the other to pull the meat apart. This will give you nice, even shreds that will absorb the flavors of the soup beautifully.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Soup Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a pressure cooker: Utilize a pressure cooker to significantly reduce the cooking time for the soup.
Canned beans: Consider using canned black beans instead of dried ones to skip the soaking and cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup Recipe
Black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable replacement for black beans in the soup.
Chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breast, adding a unique taste to the soup.
Rotel tomatoes with green chilies - Substitute with diced tomatoes and jalapeños: Diced tomatoes and jalapeños can provide a similar combination of flavors and heat to the soup.
Red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can offer a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the soup.
Diced green chiles - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers can provide a similar level of heat and a fresh, bright flavor to the soup.
Ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can add a warm, citrusy flavor that complements the other spices in the soup.
Ancho chile powder - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can impart a rich, smoky flavor similar to ancho chile powder.
Cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor without the distinctive taste of cilantro for those who do not enjoy it.
Scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish for the soup.
Best Way to Present Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting the picante chicken and black bean soup, focus on creating a visually appealing presentation. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and layers of the soup.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place thin slices of avocado on top of the soup, creating an elegant and inviting visual appeal.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the soup just before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Use contrasting textures: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream on top of the soup to provide a creamy contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the dish.
Present with a side: Serve the soup with a wedge of lime on the side, allowing the guests to squeeze a touch of citrus over the soup to enhance the flavors.
Attention to detail: Ensure the rim of the bowl is clean and free of any spills or smudges, presenting a polished and professional appearance.
Balance the composition: Aim for a balanced and visually appealing composition, ensuring that each element on the plate complements the others in both color and texture.
Essential Tools for Making Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to puree, mix, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering, which requires maintaining a relatively low temperature.
- Forks: Utensils with two or more prongs used for lifting and eating food.
- Knife: A cutting tool with a sharp blade, used for preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
- Lime squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from limes.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
- Serving bowls: Containers used for serving soups, salads, and other dishes.
- Soup ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving soup.
- Tongs: Kitchen utensils used to grip and lift food items.
- Plates: Flat, often round dishware used for serving food.
- Serving spoon: A large spoon used for serving food.
- Soup bowls: Bowls designed for serving soup.
How To Store and Freeze Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup
To store leftover picante chicken and black bean soup, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Leave about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the containers with the date and contents.
When freezing, consider portioning the soup into individual serving sizes for convenient thawing and reheating. This way, you can easily defrost only what you need.
To thaw frozen picante chicken and black bean soup, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can place the frozen container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the soup is thawed.
Reheat the thawed soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You may need to add a little chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency if the soup has thickened during storage.
For best quality, consume frozen picante chicken and black bean soup within 4-6 months. However, it will remain safe to eat beyond that time as long as it is stored at a consistent temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.
How To Reheat Leftover Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover picante chicken and black bean soup to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is evenly reheated without scorching or burning.
Microwave method: pour the leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: if you have a considerable amount of leftover soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker, cover it, and heat on low for 1-2 hours or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is convenient if you want to reheat the soup without much supervision.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the leftover soup into an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the soup well to distribute the heat evenly and prevent hot spots. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, you can add a small amount of chicken broth or water to thin it out and restore its original consistency.
When reheating, ensure that the soup reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria that may have grown during storage. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature before serving.
Garnish the reheated picante chicken and black bean soup with fresh cilantro, scallions, lime wedges, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream to refresh the flavors and add a touch of creaminess.
Random Fact About Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup
The picante chicken and black bean soup recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is packed with protein and fiber. It's a great option for a hearty and satisfying meal, and it can be easily customized with different toppings and garnishes to suit individual preferences.
Is Making Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup Economical?
This picante chicken and black bean soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as black beans, chicken breast, and canned tomatoes with green chilies, are affordable and readily available. The dish yields approximately 10½ cups, making it suitable for a family of four. The estimated cost for this recipe is around $15, making it a budget-friendly option. The flavors and nutritional value make it a solid choice for a hearty and satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9.
Is This Chicken and Black Bean Soup Healthy?
The picante chicken and black bean soup recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers several health benefits:
- Black beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
- Chicken breast is a lean protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
- The inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers, green chiles, and scallions adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the soup.
- The use of spices such as cumin, chile powder, garlic powder, and oregano not only enhances the flavor but also provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of chicken broth, which can be high in sodium. Opting for a low-sodium or homemade chicken broth would help reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
- While avocado and sour cream can add healthy fats and a creamy texture, they also increase the calorie content. Using these toppings in moderation or opting for non-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream could be a healthier alternative.
To further enhance the nutritional value of the soup, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding diced carrots, celery, or zucchini to the slow cooker. This will boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the soup.
- Incorporate whole grain options like quinoa or brown rice to the soup to increase the fiber and complex carbohydrate content, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full for longer.
- Experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, to add variety and additional nutrients to the soup.
- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, which offer additional antioxidants and a bright, fresh flavor.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Soup Recipe
This picante chicken and black bean soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of black beans, chicken, and a variety of spices creates a rich and satisfying soup. The use of slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a hearty and comforting dish. The addition of fresh cilantro, scallions, lime, avocado, and sour cream adds a refreshing and creamy element to the soup. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of heat, savory, and freshness, making it a wonderful choice for a flavorful and wholesome meal.
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Why trust this Picante Chicken and Black Bean Soup Recipe:
This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The combination of black beans, chicken broth, and rotel tomatoes with green chilies creates a rich and hearty base. The addition of red bell pepper, diced green chiles, and a blend of spices infuses the soup with a bold and zesty kick. The use of chicken breast guarantees a lean source of protein, while the garnishes of cilantro, scallions, lime, and avocado add freshness and vibrancy. This recipe promises a satisfying and flavorful soup that's sure to impress.
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