Chili Tuna
A quick, spicy tuna soup with bold chili flavors, perfect for a warming snack or light meal when you need something hot and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put water, tomato juice, chicken bouillon cube, garlic, onion flakes, and chili powder in a pan and bring almost to a boil.
- Add 4 ounces of tuna to the mixture and stir.
- Serve hot, enjoying the bold flavors and heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of hot sauce. If you don't have onion flakes, fresh chopped onions can be used, just sauté them before adding the liquids. For a different protein option, consider substituting tuna with canned salmon or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili tuna hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For an added crunch, consider serving alongside a side of Chicken-Vegetable Salad (Lite Choice) for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili tuna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or tomato juice to maintain moisture. Avoid boiling, as it can make the tuna tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Tuna contains roughly 401 calories, with 54g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (108% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (103% of the Daily Value), and iron (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2826mg per serving (123% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Just cook it in the pan for a few minutes until it's cooked through before adding the other ingredients. This will enhance the dish's flavor and texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The chili powder adds warmth, but you can increase the amount for more heat or add fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili tuna in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving to retain its flavors. It's a great option for meal prep or quick lunches.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).