Name: Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small white onion; 2 medium carrots; 1 jalapeno pepper; 5 garlic cloves; 6 cups chicken stock; 2 cups chicken; ½ cup whole-kernel corn; 15 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 4 oz green chiles; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp dried oregano; fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper; 1 cup fideos; 1 lime juice; For Optional Garnishes:; fresh cilantro; avocado; lime wedges; jalapeno slices; cotija cheese

Dive into the comforting and flavorful world of Mexican chicken noodle soup. This dish is a vibrant blend of hearty ingredients and spices, offering a warm, satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a kick of heat, it's a delightful twist on the classic chicken noodle soup.

Photos of Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

When preparing this recipe, be aware that jalapeño pepper, fideos, and cotija cheese might not be common staples in your pantry. You can find jalapeño pepper in the produce section, while fideos are typically located in the pasta aisle or Hispanic foods section. Cotija cheese is usually available in the dairy or specialty cheese section.

Ingredients for Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

Olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables, adding a rich flavor and healthy fats.

White onion: Adds a sweet and savory base to the soup.

Carrots: Provides a subtle sweetness and nutrients.

Jalapeño pepper: Brings a spicy kick to the soup.

Garlic: Enhances the savory depth of the soup.

Chicken stock: The main broth, adding rich chicken flavor.

Chicken: Provides the protein and main substance of the soup.

Whole-kernel corn: Adds sweetness and texture.

Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds a smoky flavor and acidity.

Green chiles: Brings mild heat and depth of flavor.

Chili powder: Adds a smoky, spicy flavor.

Ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy note.

Dried oregano: Adds herbal depth.

Fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning.

Freshly-cracked black pepper: Adds a sharp, peppery flavor.

Fideos: Mexican noodles that add substance to the soup.

Lime juice: Adds a refreshing, tangy finish.

Fresh cilantro: Optional garnish for a fresh, herbal note.

Avocado: Optional garnish that adds creaminess.

Lime wedges: Optional garnish for extra tang.

Jalapeño slices: Optional garnish for additional heat.

Cotija cheese: Optional garnish that adds a salty, crumbly texture.

One reader, Brady Villarreal says:

This Mexican chicken noodle soup is a delightful blend of flavors and spices. The fire-roasted tomatoes and green chiles add a wonderful depth, while the lime juice gives it a refreshing kick. Perfectly comforting and delicious!

Brady Villarreal

Techniques Required for Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

How to sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a stockpot over medium-high heat, then cook the onion, carrots, and jalapeño until softened, stirring occasionally. How to simmer broth: After adding the chicken stock and other ingredients, bring the mixture to a simmer and maintain it by reducing the heat to medium-low. How to cook fideos: Stir the fideos into the simmering broth and cook until the noodles are al dente, stirring occasionally. How to season soup: After cooking, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. How to garnish soup: Serve the soup warm and top with desired garnishes like fresh cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, jalapeño slices, and cotija cheese.

How To Make Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

This healthy bowl of chicken noodle soup is made with tender chicken, veggies, and fideos (noodles) in a zesty spicy tomato broth. Made in just 30 minutes!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
1small white onion,peeled, diced
2medium carrots,diced
1jalapeno pepper,cored, diced, optional
5garlic cloves,minced
6cupschicken stock
2cupschicken,cooked, diced or shredded
½cupwhole-kernel corn,frozen or canned
15ozfire-roasted diced tomatoes,(2 cans)
4ozgreen chiles,(1 can), diced
2tspchili powder
1tspground cumin
½tspdried oregano
fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
1cupfideos,(or broken-up spaghetti noodles), uncooked
1lime juice,plus extra lime wedges for serving, optional

For Optional Garnishes:

fresh cilantro,chopped
avocado,diced
lime wedges
jalapeño slices
cotija cheese

Instructions

Heat the oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and jalapeño for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chicken stock, cooked chicken, corn, diced tomatoes, green chiles, chili powder, cumin, and oregano, and stir to combine. Continue cooking until the broth reaches a simmer.
Reduce heat to medium-low, to maintain the simmer. Stir in the fideos, then cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the noodles are al dente.
Stir in the lime juice. Taste the soup, and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve warm, topped with desired garnishes, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 327.72kcal
Fat: 13.14g
Saturated Fat: 3.26g
Trans Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.16g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.63g
Carbohydrates: 34.39g
Fiber: 4.10g
Sugar: 9.75g
Protein: 19.22g
Cholesterol: 42.20mg
Sodium: 1085.46mg
Calcium: 72.07mg
Potassium: 775.59mg
Iron: 2.55mg
Vitamin A: 248.52µg
Vitamin C: 68.34mg

Essential Technique Tips for Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

When sautéing the onion, carrots, and jalapeño in olive oil, ensure the vegetables are cut uniformly to promote even cooking. This will help the flavors meld together more harmoniously and prevent any pieces from being undercooked or overcooked.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, carrots, and jalapeño in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

Frozen corn: Opt for frozen corn instead of fresh to cut down on prep time.

Pre-minced garlic: Use pre-minced garlic from a jar to skip the peeling and chopping.

One-pot cooking: Make the entire recipe in one stockpot to minimize cleanup.

Quick garnishes: Prepare garnishes like cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges while the soup simmers.

Substitute Ingredients For Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar texture and slightly sweeter flavor.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and a slightly sweeter taste.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are similar in heat and flavor profile.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock provides a similar depth of flavor for a vegetarian option.
chicken - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can absorb the flavors of the soup and provides a vegetarian protein option.
whole-kernel corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn retains a similar texture and flavor.
fire-roasted diced tomatoes - Substitute with regular diced tomatoes: Regular diced tomatoes can be used, though they lack the smoky flavor.
green chiles - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers offer a similar mild heat and flavor.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a similar color and mild flavor.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a different but complementary flavor.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme provides a similar earthy flavor.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar taste but different texture.
freshly-cracked black pepper - Substitute with ground white pepper: Ground white pepper offers a similar heat but a different color.
fideos - Substitute with angel hair pasta: Angel hair pasta can be broken into small pieces to mimic fideos.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and brightness.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh, green flavor.
avocado - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
lime wedges - Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges offer a similar acidity and freshness.
jalapeno slices - Substitute with banana pepper slices: Banana peppers provide a milder heat and similar texture.
cotija cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.

How to Beautifully Present Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

Use a deep, wide bowl: Choose a pristine white bowl to create a striking contrast with the vibrant colors of the Mexican chicken noodle soup.
Layer the ingredients: Start by placing a generous ladle of the soup base with chicken, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chiles at the bottom. Ensure the fideos are evenly distributed.
Garnish artistically: Arrange thin slices of avocado and jalapeno on top of the soup in a fan-like pattern. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese over the surface.
Add a citrus touch: Place a lime wedge on the rim of the bowl for an extra pop of color and a hint of freshness. Squeeze a bit of lime juice over the soup just before serving.
Finish with a drizzle: Lightly drizzle a few drops of olive oil over the top to add a glossy finish and enhance the flavors.
Serve with elegance: Present the bowl on a large, elegant plate with a folded linen napkin and a polished soup spoon. Add a small side dish of extra jalapeno slices and lime wedges for guests to customize their soup.

Storing and Freezing Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

Let the mexican chicken noodle soup cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions or in a large freezer-safe container:
- Ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place them in the freezer, laying the bags flat for easier storage.
- Frozen mexican chicken noodle soup will maintain its best quality for up to 4-6 months.
To reheat the refrigerated soup, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
For frozen soup, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen:
- To reheat from frozen, place the soup in a saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it melts and warms through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave the frozen soup in a microwave-safe container, stirring every few minutes, until it's heated through.
When reheating, you may need to add a little extra chicken stock or water to thin the soup, as the fideos (noodles) may have absorbed some liquid during storage.
Garnish the reheated soup with fresh toppings like cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges for the best flavor and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover mexican chicken noodle soup to a pot and reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is heated evenly, preventing the noodles from becoming mushy.
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: transfer the leftover mexican chicken noodle soup to a slow cooker and heat it on the low setting for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal if you want to reheat a large batch of soup without much hands-on attention.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the leftover soup into an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. Stir the soup before serving to ensure even heat distribution.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the mexican chicken noodle soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may find that the flavors have intensified or mellowed during storage, so a little extra salt, pepper, or lime juice can help revive the taste.

Interesting Facts About Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

markdown This Mexican chicken noodle soup recipe combines traditional Mexican flavors with the comfort of chicken noodle soup. The use of fideos, a type of thin Mexican noodle, adds an authentic touch to the dish.

Is This Mexican Soup Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

This Mexican chicken noodle soup recipe is highly cost-effective. Utilizing basic pantry staples like chicken stock, diced tomatoes, and corn, along with affordable fresh produce such as onions, carrots, and jalapeños, keeps costs low. The addition of fideos and optional garnishes like cilantro and avocado adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Mexican chicken noodle soup recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers several health benefits. The recipe includes a variety of vegetables such as onions, carrots, and jalapeños, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. The chicken stock and chicken meat are excellent sources of protein, while the corn and tomatoes add fiber and antioxidants to the soup. The use of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano not only enhances the taste but also has anti-inflammatory properties.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of sodium by using low-sodium chicken stock and adjusting the added salt accordingly
Increase the variety of vegetables by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutrient content
Opt for whole-grain fideos or replace them with quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates
Use skinless chicken breast to reduce the overall fat content of the dish
Limit the amount of high-fat garnishes like avocado and cotija cheese, or choose low-fat alternatives

By incorporating these changes, the Mexican chicken noodle soup can become an even more well-rounded and nutritious meal that supports a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.

Editor's Opinion on This Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

This Mexican chicken noodle soup recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, and jalapeño provides a robust, smoky heat that complements the tender chicken and al dente fideos. The addition of lime juice adds a refreshing tang, balancing the spices perfectly. The optional garnishes like fresh cilantro, avocado, and cotija cheese offer a customizable finish, enhancing the overall experience. This soup is not only comforting but also vibrant and full of character, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine a vibrant corn salad, bursting with flavors of lime, cilantro, and a hint of chili powder. This side-dish will add a refreshing crunch and a zesty kick to your Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup experience.

Cheesy Jalapeno Cornbread: Picture a golden, cheese-infused cornbread, with bits of jalapeno pepper scattered throughout. This warm and savory bread is the perfect companion to soak up the rich broth of your soup.

Mango Avocado Salad: Envision a colorful salad featuring juicy mango slices, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. This delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors will complement the hearty Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup beautifully.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Indulge in the sweet, crispy delight of churros dipped in a rich chocolate sauce. This classic dessert will provide a perfect ending to your meal, balancing the savory notes of the soup with a touch of sweetness.

Stuffed Poblano Peppers: Visualize poblano peppers stuffed with a savory blend of rice, black beans, and cheese. These flavorful peppers will add a hearty and satisfying element to your Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup feast.

Similar Recipes to Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup: Dive into a bowl of chicken tortilla soup that’s bursting with flavors of tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Top it off with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish.

Pozole Rojo: Experience the rich and hearty Mexican stew, pozole rojo, made with hominy, pork, and a vibrant red chile broth. Garnish with fresh radishes, cabbage, and a sprinkle of oregano.

Sopa De Albóndigas: Warm up with a comforting bowl of sopa de albóndigas, a traditional Mexican meatball soup. The meatballs are simmered in a flavorful broth with carrots, potatoes, and zucchini.

Caldo De Pollo: Savor the simplicity of caldo de pollo, a classic Mexican chicken soup made with tender chicken, vegetables, and rice. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Chicken Enchilada Soup: Indulge in the creamy and spicy goodness of chicken enchilada soup. This soup combines the flavors of enchiladas with chicken, cheese, and beans, topped with tortilla strips and sour cream.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapenos: Stuffed Jalapenos are a delightful way to kick off your meal. Imagine fresh jalapenos filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, then baked until golden and bubbly. The heat from the jalapenos is perfectly balanced by the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. For an extra touch, you can wrap them in bacon before baking, adding a smoky, savory element that will leave your guests craving more. Serve these with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and zesty appetizer that brings the flavors of elote to your table. This dish features grilled corn kernels tossed with a tangy lime and mayonnaise dressing, spiced with chili powder and cumin. The addition of cotija cheese and fresh cilantro adds a delightful creaminess and herbaceous note. For a bit of crunch, mix in some diced red onions and jalapenos. Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature, and garnish with extra lime wedges for a refreshing burst of citrus.

Desserts:

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Imagine crispy, golden-brown churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, paired with a rich, velvety chocolate sauce. The contrast of the crunchy exterior and the soft, warm interior of the churros creates a delightful texture. The chocolate sauce adds a luxurious touch, making each bite an indulgent experience. This dessert is perfect for those who love a combination of sweet and slightly spicy flavors, as the cinnamon adds a subtle warmth that complements the deep, rich chocolate.

Tres Leches Cake: Envision a light and airy tres leches cake soaked in a mixture of three kinds of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This cake is incredibly moist and tender, with a delicate sweetness that is perfectly balanced. Topped with a fluffy layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this dessert is a true celebration of Latin flavors. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a creamy, dreamy experience that is both comforting and satisfying.

Why trust this Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe:

This Mexican chicken noodle soup recipe is a must-try for its rich and authentic flavors. The combination of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, green chiles, and jalapeño adds a delightful kick, while the chicken stock and fideos create a comforting base. The addition of lime juice brightens the dish, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its carefully selected ingredients and straightforward instructions, ensuring a delicious result every time.

Have you tried this Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How spicy is this Mexican chicken noodle soup?

The soup has a mild to moderate level of spiciness, thanks to the jalapeño and chili powder. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more jalapeño or even some hot sauce. If you want it milder, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it altogether.

Can I use a different type of noodle instead of fideos?

Absolutely! If you can't find fideos, you can use any thin pasta like vermicelli or angel hair. Just break them into smaller pieces before adding them to the soup.

How do I store leftovers?

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a bit more chicken stock or water, as the noodles can absorb some of the liquid.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup in advance. Just prepare the soup up to the point before adding the fideos. When you're ready to serve, bring the soup back to a simmer and add the noodles, cooking until they're al dente.

What can I use as a substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can't find cotija cheese, you can use feta cheese or even grated Parmesan as a substitute. Both will add a nice salty, tangy flavor to the soup.