Southwest Chicken Detox Soup
If you’re seeking a hearty yet cleansing meal, this Southwest Chicken Detox Soup delivers in every way. Loaded with bold spices, lean protein, and nutrient-packed vegetables, this soup is a powerhouse of flavor and health benefits. Designed as a reset meal, it’s ideal for those looking to balance indulgences or fuel their bodies with wholesome ingredients.
Why This Southwest Chicken Detox Soup?
A detox soup serves as a natural way to cleanse the body, focusing on fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients that are easy to digest. Our version takes a flavorful spin on traditional detox soups by incorporating Southwestern-inspired spices and ingredients for a zesty, satisfying twist. Whether you’re aiming to kickstart a healthier lifestyle or enjoy a warming meal, this soup checks all the boxes.
Here’s what makes it a standout:
- Low-fat, low-carb, and gluten-free – Perfect for clean eating.
- Bursting with bold flavors – Thanks to green chiles, cumin, and fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Rich in detoxifying vegetables – Cabbage, carrots, and broccoli help flush out toxins.
- Customizable for dietary needs – Easily adapted for vegetarian or other preferences.
What Makes a Detox Soup So Special?
Detox soups are designed to gently cleanse the body, supporting digestion and improving metabolism. By eating nutrient-rich, low-calorie soups like this, you provide your body with the tools it needs to release toxins, retain less water, and feel rejuvenated.
Benefits of This Southwest Chicken Detox Soup:
- Flush out toxins: The blend of vegetables and spices aids in detoxification.
- Boost metabolism: Ingredients like turmeric and cumin are known to enhance metabolic activity.
- Improve energy and focus: Clean, light meals help reduce sluggishness.
- Promote better sleep: A clean digestive system supports restful nights.
The Flavorful Ingredients That Make This Soup a Winner
The secret to this soup’s delicious taste lies in the thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this masterpiece:
- Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that keeps the soup filling and nutritious.
- Onions & Garlic: Aromatics that form the flavor base of the soup.
- Olive Oil: Adds a touch of healthy fat and richness.
- Green Chiles: Bring a smoky, mildly spicy kick to the broth.
- Fire-Roasted Crushed Tomatoes: Offer a deep, smoky undertone to the soup.
- Chicken Stock: Acts as the savory base for all the ingredients to shine.
- Spices:
- Ground Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Crushed Red Pepper: Gives a gentle heat.
- Turmeric: Offers anti-inflammatory benefits while enhancing the flavor profile.
- Vegetables:
- Carrots: Add a natural sweetness and crunch.
- Cabbage: Helps cleanse the digestive system.
- Broccoli: Loaded with antioxidants and vitamins.
- Avocado: Provides a creamy finish when served on top.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to perfection.
How to Perfect Your Southwest Chicken Detox Soup
Making this soup is straightforward, but a few tips can take it to the next level:
- Cook chicken to perfection: Simmer the chicken gently to keep it tender and juicy.
- Don’t skip the aromatics: Properly sautéing onions and garlic at the start builds a flavorful base.
- Adjust spice levels: Control the heat by adding more or less crushed red pepper.
- Layer the vegetables: Add heartier veggies like carrots earlier, and delicate ones like broccoli towards the end for the perfect texture.
- Customize toppings: Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for added zest.
FAQs About Southwest Chicken Detox Soup
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with plant-based protein like black beans or tofu, and swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth.
How Do I Store the Soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. For the best flavor, reheat on the stove or microwave until warm.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add richness to the soup. Keep in mind that thighs are higher in fat, which slightly alters the calorie count.
Easy Southwest Chicken Detox Soup Recipe
This Southwest Chicken Detox Soup is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Follow the simple steps below to whip up a batch of this delicious, healthful soup.
Duration
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cans (4.5 oz each) chopped green chiles
- 14.5 oz fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 3 quarts chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 2 ½ cups sliced carrots
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 avocados, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large 6-8 quart pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Add the chicken breasts, green chiles, crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, cumin, red pepper, turmeric, carrots, and 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Set aside.
- Add cabbage and broccoli to the pot. Continue simmering until the broccoli is tender.
- Stir the shredded chicken back into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with diced avocado and optional garnishes like cilantro or lime juice.
Pro Tip: If the soup becomes too thick, stir in 2-3 cups of water and adjust the seasoning.
Nutrition
Serving: 1.5cups, Calories: 252kcal, Carbohydrates: 17g, Protein: 21g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 54mg, Sodium: 315mg, Potassium: 980mg, Fiber: 7g, Sugar: 5g,