What essential ingredient is found in the Southwest Chicken Soup?

The essential ingredient found in the Southwest Chicken Soup is mixed cheese. This ingredient contributes a creamy texture and rich flavor to the soup, enhancing its overall taste profile. Mixed cheese is often a common addition in dishes inspired by southwestern cuisine, where a blend of cheeses can complement the spices and ingredients used.

While corn, black beans, and chickpeas are indeed nutritious and flavorful components that may appear in various southwestern-style dishes or soups, they do not specifically define the core flavor and character of the Southwest Chicken Soup as mixed cheese does. The inclusion of mixed cheese is what elevates the soup, making it distinctive and appealing to those enjoying this particular dish.