Name: Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tsp olive oil; ½ cup onion; 2 Celery Stalks; 2 carrots; 4 oz green chilis; 2 cups chicken; 15 oz tomatoes; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 russet potato; salt and pepper; ½ cup corn; 2 tbsp cilantro

Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this Mexican chicken soup, a perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables. Whether you're looking to warm up on a chilly day or simply craving a delicious and nutritious meal, this soup has got you covered. With a touch of cilantro to brighten the flavors, each spoonful offers a delightful taste of Mexico.

Photos of Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe

When preparing this recipe, note that green chilis and taco seasoning might not be common pantry staples. Green chilis add a mild heat and distinct flavor, while taco seasoning provides a convenient mix of spices that enhance the soup's Mexican profile. You can find both in the international or spice aisle of your supermarket.

Ingredients for Mexican Chicken Soup

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

Onion: Provides a base of savory sweetness.

Celery: Adds a subtle, fresh crunch and flavor.

Carrots: Brings natural sweetness and color to the soup.

Green chilis: Adds mild heat and a distinct southwestern flavor.

Chicken: Protein source that makes the soup hearty and filling.

Tomatoes: Contributes acidity and depth of flavor.

Taco seasoning: A mix of spices that enhances the Mexican flavor profile.

Chicken broth: The soup base that infuses all ingredients with rich flavor.

Russet potato: Adds starch and makes the soup more substantial.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

Corn: Provides sweetness and a slight crunch.

Cilantro: Brightens and freshens the flavors just before serving.

One reader, Hilly Hartmann says:

This Mexican chicken soup recipe is fantastic! The flavors are rich and comforting, perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes it a hit every time. Highly recommend!

Hilly Hartmann

Techniques Required for Making Mexican Chicken Soup

Yes.

How to chop vegetables: Explanation on how to properly chop onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes. How to cook chicken: Explanation on how to cook and shred chicken if it's not pre-cooked. How to sauté: Explanation on how to heat oil and cook vegetables until softened. How to simmer: Explanation on how to bring the soup to a gentle boil and maintain it.

How To Make Mexican Chicken Soup

The comforting chicken soup is made Mexican-style in this recipe. Chicken, potatoes, and lots of fresh vegetables and herbs all complete this dish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tspolive oil
½cuponiondiced
2celery stalkssliced
2carrotspeeled, halved and sliced
4ozgreen chiliscan, diced
2cupschickencooked, diced or shredded
15oztomatoescan, diced, do not drain
2tbsptaco seasoning
6cupschicken broth
1russet potatopeeled and diced
Salt and pepperto taste
½cupcornfrozen, fresh or canned
2tbspcilantrochopped

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until softened.
Add the green chiles, chicken, tomatoes, and taco seasoning to the pot, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
Add the chicken broth and potato. Bring to a simmer.
Cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the corn.
Cook for 2 to 3 more minutes, then top with cilantro and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 437.45kcal
Fat: 17.88g
Saturated Fat: 4.65g
Trans Fat: 0.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.57g
Carbohydrates: 43.25g
Fiber: 5.50g
Sugar: 14.49g
Protein: 26.57g
Cholesterol: 63.30mg
Sodium: 1682.98mg
Calcium: 75.64mg
Potassium: 1416.05mg
Iron: 3.35mg
Vitamin A: 356.65µg
Vitamin C: 93.91mg

Technique Tip for Enhancing Mexican Chicken Soup Flavor

When sautéing the onion, celery, and carrots in the olive oil, ensure they are cut uniformly to promote even cooking. This will help them soften at the same rate and enhance the overall texture of the soup.

Time-Saving Tips for Mexican Chicken Soup

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, celery, carrots, and potato the night before to save time.

Use rotisserie chicken: Shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own to cut down on prep time.

Opt for canned vegetables: Use canned corn and tomatoes to reduce cooking time.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot cooking: Use a single large pot to minimize cleanup time after cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties, making it a good alternative.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder taste and can provide a similar aromatic base for the soup.
celery stalks - Substitute with fennel stalks: Fennel stalks offer a slightly different flavor but can provide a similar texture and crunch.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter taste and similar texture when cooked.
green chilis - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers are mild and can provide a similar flavor profile.
chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and can easily replace chicken in soups.
tomatoes - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can provide the same tomato flavor and consistency.
taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade spice mix: A mix of cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder can replicate taco seasoning.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar base flavor for the soup.
russet potato - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes offer a different flavor but similar texture when cooked.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor with an additional umami boost.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat level and can be used interchangeably.
corn - Substitute with frozen peas: Frozen peas can provide a similar texture and sweetness.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, herbaceous flavor that can replace cilantro.

Best Way to Present Mexican Chicken Soup

Serve in a rustic bowl: Choose a rustic, hand-crafted bowl to enhance the authentic feel of the Mexican chicken soup. The earthy tones of the bowl will complement the vibrant colors of the soup.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Finely chop cilantro and sprinkle it generously over the top of the soup just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and a pop of green color.
Add a dollop of sour cream: Place a small dollop of sour cream in the center of the soup. This not only adds a creamy texture but also balances the spiciness of the taco seasoning.
Top with crispy tortilla strips: Fry thin strips of corn tortillas until crispy and golden. Scatter these over the soup for added crunch and a traditional Mexican touch.
Serve with lime wedges: Place a few wedges of lime on the side of the bowl. This allows diners to squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup, enhancing the flavors with a zesty kick.
Drizzle with chili oil: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly drizzle some chili oil over the soup. This adds a subtle heat and a beautiful red hue.
Accompany with warm tortillas: Serve the soup with a side of warm, freshly made corn tortillas. This provides a perfect vessel for scooping up the hearty ingredients of the soup.
Use microgreens for elegance: Garnish with a small handful of microgreens on top of the soup. This adds a touch of sophistication and a delicate crunch.
Serve with a side of avocado slices: Thinly slice a ripe avocado and arrange the slices on a small plate next to the soup. The creamy texture of the avocado pairs beautifully with the soup.
Finish with a sprinkle of queso fresco: Crumble some queso fresco over the top of the soup just before serving. This mild, crumbly cheese adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Mexican Chicken Soup

Large pot: Used for cooking the soup and combining all the ingredients.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot.
Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the onion, celery, carrots, and potato.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil and taco seasoning.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken broth and other liquid ingredients.
Can opener: Needed to open the cans of green chiles and tomatoes.
Ladle: Useful for serving the soup into bowls.
Peeler: Handy for peeling the russet potato.
Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken if it needs to be added in pieces.
Grater: Optional, but can be used if you prefer to grate the carrots instead of chopping them.
Bowl: Useful for holding prepped ingredients before they are added to the pot.

Storing and Freezing Mexican Chicken Soup

To store leftover mexican chicken soup, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the soup for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating the refrigerated soup, make sure to bring it to a boil to ensure it's heated through. Adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may intensify during storage.
For longer storage, you can freeze the mexican chicken soup. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents, and freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen mexican chicken soup, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw the soup in the microwave using the defrost setting.
When reheating frozen soup, place it in a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency, as the potatoes and vegetables may absorb some liquid during freezing.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider undercooking the potatoes slightly, as they may become softer and break apart upon reheating.
Avoid freezing the soup with any toppings, such as cilantro or tortilla strips, as they may become soggy. Add fresh toppings when serving the reheated soup.

How To Reheat Leftover Mexican Chicken Soup

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover mexican chicken 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 heated evenly without boiling, which can cause the chicken and vegetables to become overcooked and mushy.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover mexican chicken soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second 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 soup to a slow cooker and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the soup is heated through. This method is ideal if you have a large quantity of leftover soup and want to reheat it slowly without the risk of burning or overcooking.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mexican chicken soup to 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 occasionally to ensure even heating.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the mexican chicken soup well to distribute the heat evenly and prevent hot spots. Also, ensure that the soup reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

Random Fact About Mexican Chicken Soup

A random fact about this Mexican chicken soup recipe is that it incorporates taco seasoning, which adds a distinct blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, giving the soup its signature Mexican flavor.

Is Mexican Chicken Soup an Economical Home-Cooked Meal?

This Mexican chicken soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing basic ingredients like onion, celery, carrots, and potatoes, along with affordable chicken and chicken broth, keeps the cost low. The addition of green chiles, tomatoes, and corn adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is Mexican Chicken Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Mexican chicken soup recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced meal that incorporates a variety of healthy ingredients. The recipe includes lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich vegetables like onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes, and beneficial spices such as taco seasoning. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the chicken broth offers hydration and additional nutrients. The inclusion of green chiles and cilantro adds flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to enhance its nutritional value further:

Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the soup
Opt for whole grain or legume-based pasta instead of the russet potato to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates
Include additional vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the vitamin and mineral content of the soup
Use skinless chicken breast to reduce the saturated fat content
Limit the amount of added salt and rely on the natural flavors of the ingredients and spices to enhance the taste

Editor's Thoughts on Mexican Chicken Soup

This Mexican chicken soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of vegetables, green chiles, and taco seasoning creates a robust and comforting base. The addition of chicken and potatoes makes it hearty, while the corn adds a touch of sweetness. The cilantro at the end provides a fresh, aromatic finish. It's a well-balanced dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. However, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick and some avocado slices for creaminess. Overall, it's a versatile and flavorful soup perfect for any occasion.

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

Mexican Rice: Mexican Rice: Elevate your Mexican Chicken Soup with a side of fluffy, aromatic Mexican Rice. The vibrant flavors of tomato, garlic, and cilantro will complement the soup perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture.

Guacamole: Guacamole: A creamy, zesty guacamole made with ripe avocados, lime juice, and a hint of jalapeño will add a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup. Serve with crispy tortilla chips for an irresistible combination.

Quesadillas: Quesadillas: Crispy, cheesy quesadillas filled with gooey cheese and your choice of chicken, beef, or vegetables will make a delightful accompaniment. The melty goodness and satisfying crunch will enhance your Mexican Chicken Soup experience.

Elote: Elote: Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, sprinkled with cotija cheese, and dusted with chili powder will bring a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness to your meal. This traditional Mexican street food is a perfect sidekick to the soup.

Churros: Churros: For a sweet finish, serve some warm, cinnamon-sugar churros. These crispy, golden treats are perfect for dipping in a rich chocolate sauce or enjoying on their own. They provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup and make for a satisfying end to your meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Mexican Chicken Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup: Dive into the rich flavors of Chicken Tortilla Soup. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, crunchy tortilla strips, and a medley of vegetables in a zesty broth. Top it off with avocado, cheese, and a squeeze of lime for a truly satisfying meal.

Pozole Rojo: Experience the traditional taste of Pozole Rojo, a classic Mexican soup made with hominy, pork, and a rich, red chili broth. Garnish with radishes, cabbage, and a sprinkle of oregano for an authentic touch.

Sopa De Albóndigas: Warm up with a bowl of Sopa De Albóndigas, a comforting meatball soup featuring tender beef and rice meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato broth with potatoes, carrots, and zucchini. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Caldo De Pollo: Savor the simplicity of Caldo De Pollo, a traditional Mexican chicken soup made with tender chicken pieces, potatoes, carrots, and corn. This nourishing dish is perfect for any season and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

Black Bean Soup: Indulge in the rich and hearty Black Bean Soup, a vegetarian delight packed with protein-rich black beans, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. Top with sour cream, cilantro, and a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Mexican Chicken Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Kick off your meal with a burst of flavor by preparing Stuffed Jalapeños. These spicy peppers are filled with a creamy mixture of cheese and spices, then baked to perfection. The crispiness of the jalapeños combined with the melty cheese creates a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve them with a side of sour cream or guacamole for an extra layer of indulgence.

Mexican Street Corn: Transport your guests to the vibrant streets of Mexico with Mexican Street Corn. This dish features grilled corn on the cob, slathered in a creamy mayonnaise and sour cream mixture, then sprinkled with cotija cheese and chili powder. The smoky flavor of the grilled corn pairs beautifully with the tangy and spicy toppings, making it a perfect appetizer to start your meal on a high note.

Desserts:

Churros With Chocolate Sauce: Imagine the delight of crispy, golden-brown churros paired with a luscious chocolate sauce. The churros are fried to perfection, with a crunchy exterior and a soft, airy interior. They are then dusted with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar. The chocolate sauce is rich and velvety, made from high-quality dark chocolate, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. This dessert is ideal for dipping and sharing, making it a fun and interactive way to end a meal.

Tres Leches Cake: Indulge in a moist and decadent tres leches cake, a classic Mexican dessert that is sure to impress. This cake is soaked in a mixture of three different milks: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream, giving it an incredibly rich and creamy texture. Topped with a light and fluffy whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this dessert is both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Why trust this Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe:

This Mexican chicken soup recipe is a must-try for its rich and authentic flavors. The combination of taco seasoning, green chiles, and cilantro brings a delightful zest to the dish. With wholesome ingredients like chicken, carrots, and potatoes, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking experience, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Trust this recipe for a comforting and delicious meal that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine.

Share your thoughts on this Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance the flavors!

FAQ:

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you like your soup with a kick, you can add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you add the green chiles. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning mix.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! You can substitute the russet potato with Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes might have slightly different cooking times.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Just sauté the onions, celery, and carrots in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

What kind of chicken should I use?

You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken works great, or you can cook and shred some chicken breasts or thighs.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Definitely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It should keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.