Chicken Black Bean Soup

Chicken Black Bean Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Chicken Black Bean Soup to chase away the winter chill. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was one of those lazy Sunday afternoons when the snow was falling softly outside, and the whole world seemed to slow down. I had some leftover chicken from the night before and a few pantry staples, so I decided to whip up something comforting. As I sautéed the onions and celery in olive oil, the aroma filled my kitchen, inviting my family to gather around. This soup quickly became a family favorite, bringing smiles and warmth to our table with every spoonful.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins
Prep Time:
0 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Saucepan, Cutting Board, Chef’s Knife

What You’ll Enjoy About This Chicken Black Bean Soup

It’s Incredibly Versatile

One of the things I love most about Chicken Black Bean Soup is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe based on what you have at home. Want to go vegetarian? Just swap out the chicken for more black beans and vegetable broth. Feeling adventurous? Add in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup is ideal for meal prep. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have lunch or dinner ready to go for days. It stores beautifully in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Rich in Flavor and Nutrition

With its hearty ingredients like black beans, tomatoes, and cilantro, this soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. You’re getting protein, fiber, and a wealth of vitamins with every bowl.

Great for Entertaining

When friends stop by unexpectedly, Chicken Black Bean Soup can be your go-to dish. Serve it with some warm tortillas or cornbread, and you’ve got an easy meal that will impress everyone.

Comforting and Satisfying

At the end of a long day, there’s nothing quite like curling up on the couch with a hot bowl of this soup. The combination of spices, the rich broth, and the tender chicken make it truly comforting and satisfying.

What to Buy for Chicken Black Bean Soup

Chicken Black Bean Soup

Gathering the right ingredients for Chicken Black Bean Soup is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory notes of onions and celery to the richness of black beans and chicken. Together, they create a hearty, wholesome meal that warms the soul.

  • 1 small onion, diced small: Adds a foundational sweetness and flavor.
  • 1 cup celery, diced small: Provides a satisfying crunch and freshness.
  • 2 tsp. olive oil: Used for sautéing, adds richness.
  • 1 T ground cumin: Introduces a warm, earthy flavor.
  • 1 T chili powder: Adds heat and depth.
  • 1 tsp. celery seed: Enhances the celery flavor.
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder or minced garlic: Brings a savory punch.
  • 4 cups canned chicken broth: The flavorful base of the soup.
  • one 14 oz. can vegetable broth: Adds extra liquid and flavor.
  • one 14.5 oz. can petite diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and texture.
  • 1 cup Pace Picante Sauce: Adds a zesty kick.
  • 6-8 drops Green Tabasco Sauce: Optional, for those who like it spicy.
  • one 15 oz. can black beans: Adds protein and fiber.
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, cut in very small pieces: The heart of the soup.
  • 1 cup chopped cilantro leaves and stems: Optional, for freshness.
  • 3 T fresh-squeezed lime juice: Brightens the flavors.
  • slices of fresh lime and sour cream for serving: Optional toppings for added flavor.

Recipe Directions for Chicken Black Bean Soup

Chicken Black Bean Soup

Making Chicken Black Bean Soup is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.

  1. In a large heavy soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, sautéing them for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them to be soft but not browned, which will keep the flavors fresh.
  2. Next, stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, celery seed, and garlic powder. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes, allowing those spices to bloom and release their aromas.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, vegetable broth, petite diced tomatoes, and Pace Picante Sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 10 minutes. This is where the flavors start to meld together.
  4. After simmering, taste your soup for heat. If you like it spicy, add a few drops of Green Tabasco Sauce to kick it up a notch.
  5. Now, add the black beans and cooked chicken into the pot. Let it simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes. The soup should thicken slightly, and the chicken should be heated through.
  6. While the soup simmers, prepare the cilantro. Wash and chop enough to make about 1 cup. Also, squeeze enough limes to extract 3 tablespoons of juice.
  7. Once the soup has simmered, stir in the chopped cilantro. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  8. Finally, add the fresh lime juice and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more. This step brightens the flavors beautifully.
  9. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra lime slices and sour cream if desired. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Consistency is Key: The soup should have a thick yet soupy consistency. If it’s too thick, simply add more broth.
  • Flavor Development: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps deepen the flavors, making it even more delicious.
  • Ingredient Quality: Use good quality chicken broth and fresh cilantro for the best taste.
  • Watch the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder and Tabasco Sauce based on your heat preference.

Recipe Tips about Chicken Black Bean Soup

Chicken Black Bean Soup

Making the perfect Chicken Black Bean Soup can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to ensure your dish comes out just right.

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
  • Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Pairing: Serve with warm tortillas, a slice of cornbread, or over rice for a complete meal.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less chili powder or hot sauce.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cilantro and lime juice at the end enhances the soup’s brightness.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Black Bean Soup

When serving Chicken Black Bean Soup, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete meal experience.

  • Warm Tortillas: Serve the soup with warm, soft tortillas to scoop up the deliciousness.
  • Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread balances the soup’s spiciness perfectly.
  • Steam Rice: For a heartier meal, serve over fluffy rice to soak up the broth.
  • Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the soup.
  • Occasions: This soup is fantastic for cozy winter dinners, casual gatherings, or even potlucks.
  • Storage Tips: Be sure to refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume them within three days for the best taste.

FAQ

Absolutely! To make Chicken Black Bean Soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with additional vegetable broth. You can also add more black beans or use other vegetables to enhance the flavors. This way, you still get a hearty and flavorful soup without any meat.

Leftover Chicken Black Bean Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup in freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to three months.

Yes, you can certainly use dried black beans instead of canned. If you choose this route, ensure to soak the beans overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the soup. Dried beans require more time to cook, so plan accordingly. This will enhance the flavor even more as they absorb the spices beautifully.

Chicken Black Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Consider serving it with warm tortillas or cornbread to complement the soup’s rich flavors. A fresh garden salad is also a fantastic pairing, providing a light contrast to the hearty soup. For a more filling meal, serve it over rice. Each option adds a delightful touch to your dining experience.

Conclusion

Chicken Black Bean Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table. Its richness and satisfying texture make it a beloved recipe for many, perfect for sharing with family and friends. I encourage you to try making this delicious soup and discover how easy it is to create a hearty meal that warms both the body and soul.

Chicken Black Bean Soup

Chicken Black Bean Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Black Bean Soup is a hearty blend of spices, tender chicken, and nutritious black beans. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for warming up on cold nights. Make it tonight for a cozy meal!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small onion diced small
  • 1 cup celery diced small
  • 2 tsp. olive oil
  • 1 T ground cumin
  • 1 T chili powder
  • 1 tsp. celery seed
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder or minced garlic
  • 4 cups canned chicken broth
  • 1 can vegetable broth 14 oz.
  • 1 can petite diced tomatoes 14.5 oz.
  • 1 cup Pace Picante Sauce
  • 6-8 drops Green Tabasco Sauce or your favorite hot sauce
  • 1 can black beans 15 oz.
  • 3 cups cooked chicken cut in very small pieces
  • 1 cup chopped cilantro leaves and stems (optional)
  • 3 T fresh-squeezed lime juice
  • 1 slice fresh lime for serving
  • 1 T sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large heavy soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, sautéing them for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them to be soft but not browned, which will keep the flavors fresh.
  • Next, stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, celery seed, and garlic powder. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes, allowing those spices to bloom and release their aromas.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, vegetable broth, petite diced tomatoes, and Pace Picante Sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 10 minutes. This is where the flavors start to meld together.
  • After simmering, taste your soup for heat. If you like it spicy, add a few drops of Green Tabasco Sauce to kick it up a notch.
  • Now, add the black beans and cooked chicken into the pot. Let it simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes. The soup should thicken slightly, and the chicken should be heated through.
  • While the soup simmers, prepare the cilantro. Wash and chop enough to make about 1 cup. Also, squeeze enough limes to extract 3 tablespoons of juice.
  • Once the soup has simmered, stir in the chopped cilantro. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  • Finally, add the fresh lime juice and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more. This step brightens the flavors beautifully.
  • Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra lime slices and sour cream if desired. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort!

Notes

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
  • Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Pairing: Serve with warm tortillas, a slice of cornbread, or over rice for a complete meal.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less chili powder or hot sauce.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cilantro and lime juice at the end enhances the soup's brightness.
Keyword Chicken Black Bean Soup, Easy Chicken Soup, hearty soup recipe, winter comfort food

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