Flavorful and Satisfying Easy Chicken Fajita Soup
If you’re a fan of classic chicken fajitas but crave something a bit heartier and more comforting, then this easy chicken fajita soup is sure to become your new favorite recipe. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful peppers, and a savory broth, this soup captures all the delicious flavors of traditional fajitas in a warm and satisfying bowl. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious soup from scratch, along with variations, keto-friendly options, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s get cooking!
Introduction
Chicken fajitas are a beloved Tex-Mex dish known for their bold flavors and customizable ingredients. This easy chicken fajita soup takes all the elements of classic fajitas – tender chicken, colorful peppers, onions, and zesty seasonings – and transforms them into a comforting and delicious soup. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breasts, skinless boneless, diced
- 1 (15 ounce) can Seasoned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 Green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 Onion, large, diced
- 1 Poblano pepper, diced
- 1 Red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can Fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 (14 ounce) can Chicken broth
- 1 dash Hot sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 packet Fajita seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, sliced bell peppers (green and red), and diced poblano pepper to the pot.
- Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot and add diced chicken breasts to the empty side.
- Season the chicken with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink and has started to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the seasoned black beans and fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and hot sauce (if using), and stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-low heat.
- Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
- Serve the soup hot and enjoy its delicious flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of this soup, omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning and hot sauce according to your taste preferences. For a spicier soup, add extra seasoning or hot sauce.
- Toppings: Get creative with your soup toppings! Try adding crushed tortilla chips, diced jalapeños, or a dollop of guacamole for extra flavor and texture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Simply dice the chicken and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance? A: Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly? A: Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version of this soup, omit the black beans and reduce the amount of onion to lower the carb content. Replace the beans with additional vegetables such as cauliflower florets or diced zucchini.
Low-Carb Version
To make a low-carb version of this soup, omit the black beans and serve the soup over cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage instead of traditional rice or tortillas.
In conclusion, this easy chicken fajita soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that captures all the flavors of classic fajitas in a comforting soup. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy evenings at home. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb option, or simply craving a hearty and flavorful soup, this recipe is sure to please. Try it out and enjoy a taste of Tex-Mex goodness in every spoonful!