High Protein Chicken Tortilla Soup With Canned Chicken For Meal Prep
When it comes to meal prep, finding nutritious and satisfying recipes can be a challenge. This high protein chicken tortilla soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Using canned chicken makes it a quick option for busy weeknights or for those who want to save time in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade soup throughout the week.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh avocado, diced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute to toast the spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth, canned chicken, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
This high protein chicken tortilla soup is not only nourishing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to please everyone.
Why Use Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep due to its convenience and shelf stability. It’s pre-cooked, so you can add it directly to your soup without any additional cooking time. This saves you a lot of hassle during busy weekdays. Plus, it provides a good source of protein, making this soup a filling choice.
Meal Prep Tips
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. To keep the toppings fresh, store them separately and add them just before serving.
Here are some additional meal prep tips:
- Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Freeze portions of the soup for a longer shelf life. Just make sure to leave out the toppings before freezing.
- Label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Consider adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Variations to Try
While this high protein chicken tortilla soup is delicious as is, feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences:
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Incorporate different beans, such as pinto beans or kidney beans.
- Use fresh chicken instead of canned; just cook it in the pot until fully cooked before adding the other ingredients.
- For a creamy texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
Storing and Reheating
To store your high protein chicken tortilla soup, let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If you’ve frozen the soup, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just cook it in the pot until fully cooked before adding the other ingredients.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with additional beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.
This high protein chicken tortilla soup with canned chicken is a go-to recipe for meal prep. It’s easy, quick, and full of nutrients, making it a great addition to your weekly meal planning. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup any day of the week!
