How to Make a Mexican Chicken and Rice Soup

If you're looking for a delicious and comforting dish, Mexican Chicken and Rice Soup, known as "Sopa de Pollo con Arroz," is a perfect choice. This traditional recipe is rich in flavor, easy to make, and ideal for any occasion. Let's dive into how to prepare this tasty soup.

Ingredients for Mexican Chicken and Rice Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional for heat)
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup long-grain rice
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Next, incorporate the red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, carrots, and celery. Sauté the mixture for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Seasoning

Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder, stirring well to coat the vegetables with the spices. Cook for another minute to release the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the shredded chicken, rice, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Once the rice is fully cooked, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer, you can also adjust the heat level by adding more jalapeño.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Mexican Chicken and Rice Soup hot, garnishing each bowl with fresh chopped cilantro and a lime wedge on the side. Squeezing lime juice over the soup enhances its flavors beautifully.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth.
Can include other vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition.
If you want a richer taste, add a tablespoon of adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers.

Conclusion

This Mexican Chicken and Rice Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for any time of the year. Utilizing fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a dish that delights the whole family. Enjoy your homemade soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal!