black bean soup with chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best black bean soup with chicken recipe

I’ve been making black bean soup with chicken for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to please my family. The dish is a staple in many Latin American countries, where it’s known as ‘sopa de frijoles.’

It’s a hearty, comforting soup that’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The key to this recipe is the way the chicken and beans meld together in a rich, savory broth.

My kids love it because it’s a meal they can get excited about – they know exactly what to expect when I serve up this soup. And as an added bonus, it’s super easy to make ahead and reheat for a quick lunch or dinner.

I’ve served this soup at family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always a hit. It’s one of those recipes that never gets old, no matter how many times you make it.

I think part of its enduring popularity is due to the fact that it’s just so versatile – you can customize it to suit your tastes with all sorts of toppings and add-ins. From diced ham to shredded cheese, the possibilities are endless.

And yet, no matter how you choose to top it, the basic recipe remains the same: chicken, beans, onions, garlic, and a rich broth all combine in perfect harmony. It’s truly a recipe that never fails to satisfy.

Black Bean Soup with Chicken

4.7 from 1374 votes

A hearty and flavorful soup featuring tender chicken, black beans, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add diced onion, bell pepper, and carrots.
3Sauté until vegetables are softened and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
5Add chicken breasts to the pot.
6Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, about 5-7 minutes.
7Stir occasionally to brown all sides.
8Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
9Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to combine the spices with the vegetables and chicken.
10Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
11Stir well to combine all ingredients.
12Bring the soup to a boil.
13Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
14Stir occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
15Remove the pot from the heat.
16Using a spoon or tongs, remove the chicken from the soup and shred it using two forks.
17Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
18Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans.
19Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the beans are heated through.
20Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
21Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier soup, add 1-2 diced jalapeño peppers along with the other vegetables. You can also use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.

This black bean soup with chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner. The best part is that it’s so easy to customize with all sorts of toppings and add-ins.

My kids love it because they know exactly what to expect when I serve up this soup. And as an added bonus, it’s super easy to make ahead and reheat for a quick lunch or dinner.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Black Bean Soup with Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use in this recipe?

I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for this recipe. You can also use leftover roast chicken if you have some on hand.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this soup up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use.

Q: How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

Add more broth or water as needed to thin out the soup.

Q: Can I substitute other types of beans for the black beans?

You can use kidney beans or pinto beans as substitutes in this recipe.

Q: What are some good toppings for this soup?

Some of my favorite toppings include diced ham, shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

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