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Mexican Chicken Soup

This Mexican chicken soup combines smoky spices, fresh lime zest, and hearty ingredients to create a warming, vibrant dish. The soup features tender chicken, sweet corn, and beans in a flavorful broth, finished with bright cilantro. Its comforting texture and punchy flavors make it perfect for chilly evenings or when craving something both grounding and exciting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large chicken breasts or thighs prefer thighs for juiciness
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper red or green chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or canned
  • 1 can (15 oz) beans black or pinto, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons oil vegetable or olive oil for cooking

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add diced onion, chopped bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until fragrant and vegetables are slightly softened, about 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika, cooking for 30 seconds to bloom the spices and release their aroma.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and chicken to cook through.
  6. Add the corn and drained beans to the soup in the last 10 minutes of simmering to keep their texture lively.
  7. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lime juice for brightness.
  8. Finish the soup by stirring in freshly squeezed lime juice and chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
  9. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with extra cilantro if desired, and serve immediately for a comforting, punchy meal.