Southwest Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food! This hearty soup combines black beans, corn, and cream cheese for a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—all you need to do is throw everything in the Crockpot and let it simmer away!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your Crockpot does all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe accommodates various ingredients, so feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this creamy soup! It’s a great way to sneak in some nutritious beans and veggies without them noticing.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for an easy meal on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make preparing Southwest Chicken Soup a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups
• Mixing Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows you to cook the soup slowly, enhancing flavors while freeing up your time for other activities.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely, ensuring everything is prepped before cooking.
• Measuring Cups: Guarantees accurate ingredient amounts, which is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the 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)

For Seasoning

• 1 ounce dry ranch seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 Tablespoon chili powder

For Protein and Creaminess

• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 cups)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (one brick) (room temperature)

How to Make Southwest Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing the black beans under cold water until clean. Drain the corn but keep it undrained in the can. Dice the onion into small pieces.

Step 2: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, green chilies, ranch seasoning, cumin, chili powder, and diced onion.
2. Place the boneless chicken breasts on top of the mixture.
3. Finally, add the cream cheese on top.

Step 3: Cook

Set your slow cooker on low heat for about 4 hours or high heat for approximately 2 hours. The chicken should be cooked through by then.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After cooking time is complete:
1. Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker.
2. Shred them using two forks before adding them back into the soup.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

Mix everything together well in the slow cooker. Let it sit for an additional 10 minutes on low heat before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your delicious Southwest Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Soup

Serving Southwest Chicken Soup can elevate any meal. This flavorful dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich texture that complements the soup.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.

Accompanied by Crunchy Snacks

• Tortilla Chips: Serve on the side for a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the soup.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and sweet, cornbread muffins make an excellent accompaniment.
• Vegetable Sticks: Crisp veggies like carrots and bell peppers add a healthy crunch.

With Additional Proteins

• Shredded Chicken: Add extra shredded chicken on top for more protein and heartiness.
• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a melty finish.

How to Perfect Southwest Chicken Soup

Achieving the perfect bowl of Southwest Chicken Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create an exceptional dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Use fresh spices whenever possible to enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
• Proper Cooking Time: Allow the soup to cook for at least 4 hours in the Crockpot; this ensures flavors meld beautifully.
• Cream Cheese Consistency: Soften cream cheese before adding it to prevent lumps and ensure smoothness.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning while cooking; everyone’s taste preferences vary, so find your ideal balance.

Best Side Dishes for Southwest Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Southwest Chicken Soup can make for a more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the robust flavors of the soup.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and enhances the overall dining experience.
3. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa offers a tangy contrast and adds brightness to your meal.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies bring smoky flavors that pair well with the soup’s warmth.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled tortillas provide a delicious cheesy bite alongside your soup.
6. Salad with Lime Dressing: A crisp salad dressed with lime vinaigrette refreshes the palate between spoonfuls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Southwest Chicken Soup can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: If you leave the chicken in the Crockpot too long, it can become dry. Cook just until it’s fully cooked through, then shred it and return it to the soup.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt or spices to suit your preference.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese can clump in the soup. Make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth incorporation.
• Forgetting to Drain Canned Ingredients: Not draining black beans can lead to a watery soup. Always rinse and drain canned items properly.
• Skipping Fresh Garnishes: Don’t forget about garnishes! They can elevate your dish. Add cilantro, avocado, or lime for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing it.

Freezing Southwest Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Southwest Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Start with 1 minute on high, stir, then heat in additional 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Southwest Chicken Soup:

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! You can substitute black beans with pinto or kidney beans if you prefer.

How spicy is this Southwest Chicken Soup?

The spice level depends on the type of green chilies used. For less heat, choose mild varieties.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What should I serve with Southwest Chicken Soup?

This soup pairs well with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

How do I customize the ingredients?

Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots, or switch up spices based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Southwest Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep!

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Southwest Chicken Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the comforting warmth of Southwest Chicken Soup—a hearty, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Bursting with flavors from black beans, sweet corn, and tender chicken, this Crockpot recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the magic. This versatile soup allows for personalization by adding your favorite vegetables and spices, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Enjoy a bowl topped with avocado slices or fresh cilantro, and savor the delightful experience!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 teaspoons cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2–3 cups)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)

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Instructions

1. Rinse black beans under cold water until clean; drain corn but keep it undrained.
2. In a slow cooker, combine black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, green chilies, ranch seasoning, cumin, chili powder, and diced onion.
3. Place chicken breasts on top of the mixture and add softened cream cheese.
4. Cook on low for about 4 hours or high for approximately 2 hours until chicken is fully cooked.
5. Shred the chicken using two forks and mix back into the soup.
6. Stir well and let sit for an additional 10 minutes on low before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize with additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust spices based on your heat preference by choosing mild or hot green chilies.