Are you tired of having the same old boring soups? Why not try Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup? Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it's also healthy - just 100 calories per serving!
Made with a delicious blend of vegetables, spices, chicken, and tortilla chips, this soup is a perfect choice for a quick and easy meal. Plus, it's packed with nutrients that your body needs to stay healthy.
In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup - from its ingredients and nutritional benefits to potential risks and variations.
Ingredients in Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup is made with a variety of ingredients, including: To make this soup, start by sautéing chicken breast in olive oil until cooked through. Then, add diced onion and garlic and cook until fragrant. Next, add diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, chicken broth, and spices. Bring to a simmer and cook until everything is heated through. Top each serving with tortilla chips and enjoy! This recipe can easily be modified to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add more or less spice depending on how you like it. You can also switch out the chicken breast for shredded chicken or ground beef if you prefer.
How to Make Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
Making Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup is quick and easy. Here's how: 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. 2. Add diced onion and garlic to the pot and cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Ways to Serve Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
There are many different ways to serve and enjoy Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup. Here are a few ideas: - Top each serving with shredded cheese, sour cream, and/or sliced avocado. - Serve with a side of tortilla chips for dipping.
Nutritional Benefits of Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of this soup: - High in protein: Chicken breast contains a significant amount of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscles. - Rich in fiber: The black beans and corn in this soup are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which can help keep your digestive system healthy.
How Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup Affects Your Body
Eating Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup can have several positive effects on your body: - Boosts immunity: The spices used in this soup, such as chili powder and cumin, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help boost your immune system. - Promotes weight loss: This soup is low in calories but high in protein and fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer - making it a great choice for weight loss.
Variations of Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
There are many different ways to make Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup. Here are a few variations you can try: - Vegetarian version: Substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add more beans or tofu for protein. - Creamy version: Add a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the soup for a creamier texture.
Potential Risks of Consuming Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
While Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup is generally a healthy choice, there are a few potential risks to be aware of: - High in sodium: Canned or processed ingredients, such as chicken broth and tortilla chips, can be high in sodium. Look for low-sodium options or make your own broth from scratch. - Risk of contamination: Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
How to Store Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
If you have leftover Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot or microwave-safe container and heat until hot. You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or heat it up in a pot straight from the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here are some common questions people ask about Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup: - Is this soup gluten-free? The tortilla chips in this recipe are not gluten-free, but you can easily substitute them with gluten-free crackers or chips. - Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes! Simply add all of the ingredients (except for the tortilla chips) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Top each serving with tortilla chips before serving.
Final Thoughts on Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to satisfy. By following the tips and suggestions in this article, you can make a perfect batch of Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup that's tailored to your tastes and preferences. So why not give it a try?
FAQs About Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. How many calories are in one serving of Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup?
One serving of Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup, which is a cup or 227 oz, contains 100 calories.
2. Is Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup gluten-free?
This depends on the recipe used to make the soup. Generally, tortilla soup contains tortilla strips which are made from wheat flour and are not gluten-free. However, some recipes may use gluten-free tortillas or omit tortilla strips altogether, making the soup gluten-free.
3. Does Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup contain dairy?
Again, this depends on the recipe used. Some recipes use cheese or sour cream as a garnish, which would make the soup not dairy-free. However, many recipes omit these ingredients or opt for non-dairy alternatives, making the soup dairy-free.
4. Can Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup be frozen?
Yes, Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup can be frozen. It is best to freeze the soup without the tortilla strips, as they may become soggy upon reheating. Instead, add fresh tortilla strips when the soup is reheated.
5. What are some serving ideas for Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup can be served with additional toppings such as avocado, diced tomatoes, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. It can also be served alongside cornbread or a side salad for a more filling meal.