Save Imagine a cold evening when you crave the bold, smoky flavors of Tex-Mex but want something light and nourishing. This Skinny One-Pot Chicken Fajita Soup is the answer—a vibrant bowl packed with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and fresh zucchini. It captures the essence of sizzling fajitas in a comforting, easy-to-make soup that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle.
Save The secret to this soup's incredible depth is the combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. By sautéing the spices with the vegetables before adding the broth, the flavors are amplified, creating a rich base that tastes like it simmered for hours, even though it takes less than 45 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), sliced thinly
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium green zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 liter low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Add the garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini, and cook for another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes until the chicken is just opaque.
- Step 5
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Step 6
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Step 7
- Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional cilantro if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the chicken remains tender, slice it into thin, uniform strips so it cooks quickly and evenly during the simmering process. Be sure to use a large soup pot to allow enough space for the vegetables to sauté properly without steaming initially.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a heartier version of this soup, feel free to add a can of drained black beans or some frozen corn. If you want to make the dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken, use vegetable broth, and increase the amount of peppers or beans for a protein boost.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this soup piping hot with extra lime wedges on the side for a bright finish. For added texture and creaminess, top each bowl with sliced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt. If you are not strictly dairy-free, a sprinkle of shredded cheese also pairs wonderfully with the fajita spices.
Save This Skinny One-Pot Chicken Fajita Soup is more than just a healthy meal; it is a vibrant celebration of Tex-Mex flavors. Whether you're enjoying it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the days ahead, this comforting bowl is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey or white fish can work well, adjusting cooking times accordingly to keep tenderness and flavor balance.
- → What can I add to make this soup heartier?
Incorporate drained black beans or corn to increase texture and substance without overpowering the spices.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding extra vegetables or beans to maintain protein and depth.
- → How do the fajita spices enhance the dish?
The combination of cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano delivers smoky, warm, and slightly spicy notes typical of Tex-Mex cuisine.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors best?
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges brighten the dish, while sliced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt add creaminess.