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Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe

Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Soup

Mexican Chicken Soup is a flavorful, slightly spicy soup that features shredded chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions in a broth seasoned with cumin and chili powder. Ina Garten’s version elevates this comforting classic with fresh ingredients and customizable toppings for a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 2 pounds
  • Chicken stock – 8 cups
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp
  • Yellow onion – 1 large, diced
  • Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
  • Red bell pepper – 1, diced
  • Yellow bell pepper – 1, diced
  • Carrots – 2, peeled and diced
  • Canned diced tomatoes – 1 (14-ounce) can, with juice
  • Cumin – 1 tsp
  • Chili powder – 1 tsp
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
  • Lime juice – 2 tbsp, freshly squeezed
  • Optional garnishes: Avocado slices, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with chicken stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the stock and set aside to cool slightly. Shred the chicken using two forks. Reserve the stock.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, bell peppers, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the reserved chicken stock back into the pot. Bring to a simmer and add the shredded chicken. Cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Finish with Lime Juice: Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like avocado, tortilla strips, cheese, and cilantro. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.