Fiesta Chikn Soup

Fiesta Chikn Soup (adapted from Kraft Recipes, 4 servings, Total Time: 40 minutes)

Ingredients

¼ cup Zesty Italian Dressing

1 package Trader Joe’s Chickenless Strips, chopped

½ onion, chopped

1 cup (1/2 of 14-1/2-oz. can) stewed tomatoes, undrained

1 can (14-1/2 oz.) fat-free reduced-sodium vegetable broth

1 ¼ cups water

1 can (8-1/2 oz.) peas and diced carrots, drained

1 tsp. chili powder

½ cup Mexican or Taco Shredded Cheese

Directions

1.)    Heat dressing in large saucepan on medium-high heat. Add strips and onions; cook 5 min., stirring occasionally.

2.)    Add tomatoes, broth, water, peas and carrots, and chili powder; stir. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer 8 min. or until onions are tender.

3.)    Serve, topped with cheese.

I wasn’t as fond of this Mexican soup dish as others that I have tried.  If I make it again, I’ll add some hot sauce or jalapenos, or something to jazz it up a bit.  As is, the chili powder doesn’t help much in the flavor department.  It is also fairly one note on the texture component, of which my husband is not a fan.  Maybe adding some tortilla chips on top would make him happy!  If you are looking for a mild dish, then this is your ticket.  But if you’re looking for flavor town, you’ll need to make some additional enhancements (and I definitely recommend the Taco cheese, as it has a more intense flavor).  Enjoy!