Next, I cube the chicken breasts and add them to the pot, seasoning everything with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. I stir it all together, ensuring the chicken gets nicely coated with the spices. This is where the magic happens as the chicken begins to brown. After about 5–6 minutes, when the chicken is mostly cooked through, I pour in the canned diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. The soup comes to a gentle simmer as I keep it on medium heat.
Once simmering, I cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to build and the chicken to become succulently tender. After 15 minutes, I remove the pot from heat and shred the chicken right in the pot—such a wonderful texture contrast! Finally, I stir in chopped cilantro and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
For serving, I ladle out generous portions into bowls and top each with a slice of avocado and a squeeze of fresh lime juice—trust me, the lime elevates everything! If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Pro Tips for Best Results
One thing I learned while making this soup is that the quality of chicken really matters. I’ve tried everything from frozen to fresh, and I find that fresh, organic chicken gives the best flavor. It makes a noticeable difference in terms of tenderness and taste!
Also, I like to customize the spice level depending on my audience. I’ve made this soup for both friends who love heat and those who prefer milder flavors, and I’ve found that adjusting the fajita seasoning allows me to balance it perfectly.
Lastly, if I have time, I love letting the soup sit for a while after cooking. The longer it rests, the more the flavors meld together, creating a richer experience. So if you’re not in a rush, let it hang out for a bit before serving!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I previously made was not properly seasoning the vegetables before adding the chicken. I learned that the layers of flavor start with the veggies, and a little sprinkle of salt while they sauté can make a world of difference. This helps build a flavor foundation that enhances the entire soup! (See the next page below to continue…)