Delicious Chicken Black Bean Soup Recipe | Hearty & Healthy
Cold days and cozy nights call for a bowl of something warm, hearty, and nourishing. A Delicious chicken black bean soup is the perfect answer when you’re craving comfort without wanting to spend hours in the kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, protein-rich black beans, and a flavorful blend of spices, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with inviting aromas while delivering a wholesome meal the whole family will love.
Unlike heavy cream-based soups, this version is light yet hearty, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prep. Pair it with warm bread, a side salad, or even tortilla chips, and you’ll have a balanced, delicious dish ready in no time.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients along with their approximate calorie counts per serving size:
| Ingredient | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast (1 cup, shredded) | 231 |
| Black beans (1 cup, cooked) | 227 |
| Olive oil (1 tbsp) | 119 |
| Onion (1 medium) | 44 |
| Garlic (3 cloves) | 13 |
| Diced tomatoes (1 cup, canned) | 32 |
| Chicken broth (2 cups) | 30 |
| Bell pepper (1 medium) | 37 |
| Corn (½ cup) | 62 |
| Ground cumin (1 tsp) | 8 |
| Chili powder (1 tsp) | 6 |
| Salt & pepper (to taste) | ~0 |
| Fresh cilantro (2 tbsp) | 1 |
| Lime juice (1 tbsp) | 4 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes. - Add spices
Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for 1 minute to enhance their flavor. - Combine main ingredients
Add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. - Simmer the soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. - Finish with freshness
Stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro right before serving for a bright, zesty finish.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth for a hearty bean-and-veggie soup.
- Add spice: For more heat, toss in diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Bulk it up: Add rice, quinoa, or barley for a thicker, more filling version.
- Creamy twist: Blend half the soup with an immersion blender before adding the chicken back for a creamier consistency.
- Topping ideas: Avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips make great garnishes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread on the side.
- Pair with a green salad for a lighter meal.
- Garnish with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- Offer tortilla chips or toasted pita for dipping.
- Make it a complete Mexican-inspired spread by serving alongside tacos or quesadillas.
Delicious Chicken Black Bean Soup Recipe
6
servings15
minutes30
minutes310
kcalIngredients
1 cup shredded cooked chicken breast
1 cup black beans (cooked or canned, drained & rinsed)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned)
2 cups chicken broth
1 medium bell pepper, chopped
½ cup corn
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp lime juice
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toast the spices for 1 minute.
- Add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Stir in lime juice and cilantro just before serving.
- Garnish with toppings of your choice (avocado, cheese, tortilla strips, sour cream).
Recipe Video
Notes
- Chicken options: Shredded chicken breast is lean and light, while chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken add extra flavor and juiciness.
Beans: Canned black beans are a quick option, but home-cooked beans give the soup a richer, fresher taste.
FAQs
1: Can I make chicken black bean soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
2: Can I freeze chicken black bean soup?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
3: Do I need to use canned black beans, or can I cook my own?
You can use either. Canned beans save time, but freshly cooked beans give the soup an extra homemade touch. Just be sure they’re fully cooked and tender.
4: What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Shredded cooked chicken breast is most common, but thighs can add more flavor and juiciness. Rotisserie chicken is also a great shortcut.
5: How can I make this soup spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to give it more heat.
Conclusion
A Delicious Chicken Black Bean Soup Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. With protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich black beans, and a flavorful broth, this recipe is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, prepping ahead for busy weekdays, or entertaining guests, this soup will never disappoint. Simple, hearty, and customizable, it’s a recipe worth adding to your rotation.
