Optavia Chicken Taco Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal option designed to fit within the Optavia weight loss and healthy living program. Combining the hearty flavors of tender chicken, zesty taco seasonings, and a medley of vegetables, this soup offers a comforting and satisfying dish that aligns with your dietary goals.
Perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, Optavia Chicken Taco Soup provides a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
Whether you’re following the Optavia plan or simply looking for a wholesome meal, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
How To Make Optavia Chicken Taco Soup?
Recipe Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Yield: Serves: 4
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 4 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Legs & Thighs ; (2 of 3 Kirkland Packages)
- 4 cups cabbage
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups Water
- 1 packet taco seasoning(Optavia-approved)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6.4 ounces Reduced-Fat Mexican Cheese ; shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Prepare The Chicken
Rinse the chicken legs and thighs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking The Chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the chicken pieces. Pour in the low-sodium chicken brothhttps://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/homemade-chicken-broth/ and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
Add Vegetables And Seasoning
Add the shredded cabbage, diced green chilies, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, and minced garlic.
Simmer
Allow the soup to simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure all ingredients are well combined and flavors meld together.
Finish And Serve
Once the soup is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a sprinkle of shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
Nutrition Facts Of Optavia Chicken Taco Soup
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
Tips And Variations Of Optavia Chicken Taco Soup
Tips
- Use pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more green chilies or a dash of hot sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations
- Substitute chicken with ground turkey or lean beef for a different flavor.
- Add a variety of beans, such as kidney or pinto beans, for extra fiber.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste.
Special Note Of Optavia Chicken Taco Soup
For those following the Optavia plan, always check that all ingredients align with your specific meal plan guidelines. Optavia-approved taco seasoning ensures that you stay on track without any hidden sugars or unnecessary additives.
How Do You Thicken Taco Soup?
To thicken taco soup, I use a few simple tricks. I start by mashing some of the beans with a fork or a potato masher. This releases their starches and thickens the soup. I also mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a bit of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup.
Another method I use is adding a handful of crushed tortilla chips. They break down and help thicken the soup as it cooks. Sometimes, I just let the soup simmer longer to reduce the liquid and make it thicker.
Conclusion
My Optavia Chicken Taco Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings a taste of Mexican cuisine to your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for a wholesome meal.
Whether you are on the Optavia plan or just looking for a healthy and delicious soup, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of this easy-to-make soup, and feel good about nourishing your body with every bite.
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.