Mexican Chicken Rice Soup

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Mexican Chicken Rice Soup. With tender chicken, hearty rice, and a lively broth infused with lime, garlic, and a hint of spice, this soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or simply craving something wholesome and soul-satisfying, this dish delivers cozy vibes in every spoonful.

This soup is a one-pot wonder that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine into your kitchen with ease. Packed with protein and nourishing vegetables, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep lunches. Make a big batch and let the zesty aromas fill your home—you’ll be coming back for seconds.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts both work well for this soup. Thighs add a bit more richness, while breasts keep it lean. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time—just shred it and add it at the end to warm through.

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Ingredients for the Mexican Chicken Rice Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and avocado slices for garnish

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How To Make the Mexican Chicken Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another minute.

Step 2: Add Spices and Broth

Sprinkle in cumin and chili powder, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer the Rice

Add the diced tomatoes and rice to the pot. Reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until rice is tender.

Step 4: Stir in Chicken and Corn

Add the shredded chicken and corn to the pot. Simmer for 5 more minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Finish with Lime and Garnish

Squeeze in fresh lime juice, taste, and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with chopped cilantro and avocado slices on top.

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Serving and Storing Mexican Chicken Rice Soup

Serve this soup hot, ideally with warm tortillas or crusty bread on the side. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or a dollop of sour cream.

To store, let the soup cool and transfer it to airtight containers. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice has absorbed too much liquid.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time. Add 15-20 extra minutes or cook the rice separately and stir it in.

Is this soup spicy?

It has a mild kick, especially with jalapeño. You can omit it or add more chili powder to adjust the heat.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use vegetable broth and swap chicken for beans like black or pinto.

What toppings work best?

Chopped cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, or even crushed tortilla chips all add great texture and flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except the rice, lime, and garnishes to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in rice during the last 30 minutes and finish with lime juice.

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Want More Cozy Soup Ideas?

If you love this warming Mexican Chicken Rice Soup, you’ll definitely enjoy these other hearty, flavor-packed options from Nina Dishes:

• Cozy Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe – loaded with comforting goodness.
• Cajun White Chicken Chili – creamy with a spicy twist.
• Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque – rich and elegant.
• Thick and Creamy Seafood Chowder Recipe – perfect for chilly nights.
• Rich Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff – earthy and satisfying.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever you need a cozy meal idea.

And if you try it out, drop a comment! Did you use chicken thighs or rotisserie? Did you add extra heat or go mild?

I’m always excited to hear how others make these recipes their own. Don’t forget to tag your dish and follow along on Pinterest at Nina Dishes for more recipe inspiration.

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