Qdoba Gumbo Soup Recipe
Joe Williams
I’ll never forget the first time I slurped down a bowl of Qdoba Gumbo Soup. It was a chilly evening, and that rich, warming flavor hit all the right notes.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins
Course Soup
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 12 Servings
Calories 600 kcal
- 3 pounds tender cooked chicken cubed (boiled or shredded)
- 1 large white onion finely minced
- 3 to 4 cloves fresh garlic finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1 can savory chicken broth
- 1 carton rich chicken stock
- 2 cans petite diced tomatoes with their juices
- 2 cans black beans drained and thoroughly rinsed
- 1 can fire-roasted green chilies chopped
- 1 packet zesty ranch seasoning blend
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deep smoky essence
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin to enhance warmth and depth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder for a mild
- 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels
- 3 cups fluffy cooked white rice
- 1 large lime or 2 small limes freshly squeezed
- Fresh cilantro roughly chopped (for garnish)
- Mexican crema or sour cream for a creamy topping
- Shredded Mexican-style cheese blend for a melty, savory finish
- Ripe avocado sliced for garnish
- Crispy tortilla strips or crushed corn chips
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Liquids
Once your onion and garlic are golden, introduce the cubed chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and stock. Stir to combine. The broth is what gives body to your soup, creating that comforting texture.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced tomatoes, black beans, sweet corn, and green chilies. Stir well, letting the ingredients mingle. Each ingredient plays a role in building the final flavor.
Step 5: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. This is where the magic happens. Stir the soup to ensure every ingredient is coated with those delicious spices. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve it Up
Once your soup is ready, stir in the lime juice and check for seasoning. Serve in bowls and top with chopped cilantro, Mexican crema, shredded cheese, and avocado slices. Don’t forget those crispy tortilla strips—they add the final touch.
Here are a few pointers to help you perfect your gumbo soup:
- Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and cook the chicken the day before to save time.
- Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a game-changer. It adds flavor and cuts down your prep time.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the chili powder and smoked paprika. Start with half a teaspoon and taste as you go.
- Add Other Proteins: Shrimp or sausage can elevate this dish. Just ensure that they’re cooked through before serving.
- Freezing the Soup: Make a large batch, let it cool, and freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy meals later.
Serving: 333gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 43gFat: 41.9gCholesterol: 137mgSodium: 1151mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Qdoba Gumbo Soup Recipe