This Chicken and Black Bean Lime Soup is a perfect example of Healthy Black Bean Recipes – it’s a vibrant, hearty, and incredibly satisfying meal that comes together quickly. You’ll love how fresh and flavorful this soup is, making it a staple for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal.
- Black Beans: Canned black beans work best. Ensure you rinse and drain them thoroughly.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the bright flavor.
- Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth can be used. Low-sodium is always a good choice.
- Spices: Chili powder and cumin add warmth. Adjust to your preference.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (from about 3-4 limes)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Spices:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado, diced
- Tortilla chips or strips
- Greek yogurt or sour cream alternative
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Combine Core Ingredients
Add the rinsed and drained black beans, chicken or vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes (undrained) to the pot. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add Chicken and Simmer
Once simmering, add the cooked, shredded chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This is a great way to ensure a hearty one of your Healthy Black Bean Recipes.
4. Finish with Freshness
Remove the soup from the heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to your preference.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm Chicken and Black Bean Lime Soup into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like diced avocado or tortilla strips. Enjoy this flavorful and healthy meal.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the onions.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in corn, bell peppers, or spinach during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Creamy Texture: For a creamier soup, blend one cup of the soup before adding the chicken, then return to the pot.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Chicken and Black Bean Lime Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use dry black beans? Yes, you can. You will need to cook them first according to package directions before adding them to the soup.
- What if I don’t have cooked chicken? You can cook chicken breasts or thighs by poaching or baking them, then shredding or dicing.
- Is this soup freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Consider adding extra vegetables or a plant-based protein source.
- How can I make this soup thicker? You can mash a portion of the black beans against the side of the pot with a spoon, or blend a small amount of the soup.
- What can I serve with this soup? It’s great with a side of cornbread, a simple green salad, or extra tortilla chips for dipping. This recipe fits perfectly into the category of Healthy Black Bean Recipes.