Southwest Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Southwest Chicken Soup. This soup is a delightful blend of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re busy with work, hosting family gatherings, or just craving something delicious, this soup is the answer. You can whip it up in no time with your trusty Crockpot, and trust me, it’s even better than Chilis Southwest Chicken Soup!

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the way it brings everyone together. Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of this creamy goodness. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and flavorful ingredients.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just store leftovers in the fridge!
• Hearty and satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup keeps you full longer.
• Versatile flavors: Feel free to mix things up with different toppings or sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Southwest Chicken Soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor, making the soup absolutely irresistible!

For the Soup Base

• 15.5 ounces black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15.25 ounces corn (undrained)
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 14.5 ounces chicken broth
• 4 ounces diced green chilies (undrained)
• 1 ounce dry ranch seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 Tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 cup diced onion

For the Protein

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 cups)

For Creaminess

• 8 ounces cream cheese (one brick) (room temperature)

Variations

The beauty of this Southwest Chicken Soup is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add jalapeños or sprinkle some hot sauce before serving.
• Top it off: Serve with avocado slices, cilantro, or tortilla chips for crunch.

How to Make Southwest Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will make cooking much smoother! Rinse the black beans well to remove excess sodium and drain the corn. Having everything prepped helps in ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

In your Crockpot, combine the black beans, corn (do not drain), diced tomatoes (also undrained), chicken broth, green chilies, ranch seasoning, cumin, chili powder, and onion. Stir everything together until well mixed. This step is crucial as it allows all those flavors to meld beautifully during cooking.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Place the boneless chicken breasts right on top of the mixture. Don’t worry about cutting them; they will shred easily once cooked! Covering them with all those tasty ingredients ensures they stay moist and soak up all that Southwest flavor.

Step 4: Let It Cook

Cover your Crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!

Step 5: Shred and Stir in Cream Cheese

Once done cooking, take out the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks; then return them to the soup pot. Finally, stir in that luscious cream cheese until it’s fully melted and creamy throughout. This step adds richness that takes your soup to another level!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your warm Southwest Chicken Soup into bowls and enjoy! It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or even tortilla chips for dipping. Take a moment to savor every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Southwest Chicken Soup

Making Southwest Chicken Soup is a breeze, but these tips will help you take it to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Freshness brings out the natural sweetness of the corn and the bright flavors of the tomatoes.

• Adjust spice levels: If you like a kick, consider adding jalapeños or extra chili powder. On the other hand, if you’re serving kids or those who prefer milder flavors, reduce the spices to suit their taste.

• Shred chicken after cooking: For a more homestyle feel, shred your chicken breasts after cooking instead of leaving them whole. This allows the chicken to soak up more of the delicious broth and flavors.

• Let it sit: If time permits, let your soup sit for an hour after cooking before serving. This resting time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together for a richer taste.

• Freeze leftovers: This soup freezes well! Portion out any leftovers into freezer-safe containers for an easy meal later on. Just reheat and enjoy!

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Soup

This Southwest Chicken Soup is not only hearty and flavorful but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color that complements the spices in the soup.
• Sour cream or plant-based yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess and balances out the heat from the spices.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over each bowl enhances brightness and freshness, making each bite even more vibrant.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of this flavorful soup while adding a comforting touch.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for an excellent side, offering texture contrast and a fun way to scoop up your soup!
• Mexican rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices complements the soup nicely and adds bulk to your meal.
• Guacamole salad: A light guacamole salad with tomatoes, onions, and lime juice adds freshness that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Southwest Chicken Soup will not only be delicious but also a delightful experience for everyone at your table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Southwest Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade soup throughout the week! Whether you’re batch cooking for busy days or planning for a cozy family dinner, this soup stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Wondering more about this delightful recipe? Here are some common questions!

Can I make Southwest Chicken Soup without cream cheese?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can omit the cream cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cream alternative.

How long does Southwest Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

When properly stored, your Southwest Chicken Soup will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

What is the best way to serve Southwest Chicken Soup?

This soup is fantastic on its own or topped with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or tortilla chips for added crunch!

Can I use frozen chicken in my Southwest Chicken Soup?

Yes! You can use frozen boneless chicken breasts directly in your Crockpot. Just ensure they are fully cooked before serving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting bowl of Southwest Chicken Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it turns out!