Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Chicken Tortilla Soup is a go-to recipe that brings warmth and excitement to any meal! With its easy steps and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me share why this dish has become a favorite in my home it’s simple, delicious, and full of bold flavors that make every bite feel special.
Picture this: you’re wrapping up a long day, and in just about 40 minutes, you can have a nourishing bowl ready. This soup combines tender shredded chicken, veggies, and spices for a meal that’s not only tasty but also packed with health benefits like protein and vitamins. It’s versatile too, so whether you’re cooking for family or tweaking it for your diet, it fits right in.
One reason I love this Chicken Tortilla Soup is its ease of preparation. This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and only about 30 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The step-by-step process is designed to be quick and easy without compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s loaded with health benefits, packed with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and wholesome spices that offer a nutritious meal rich in protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, supporting overall wellness and a balanced diet.
What makes it even better is its versatility. You can easily adapt this soup to various dietary needs just swap the chicken with plant-based proteins for a vegan version or use gluten-free tortillas to suit sensitivities. And let’s not forget the distinctive flavor! Combining smoky spices, fresh lime, and crunchy tortilla strips, the soup stands out with a harmonious blend of bold, vibrant flavors and satisfying textures that delight the palate. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Personal Touch on This Classic
From my kitchen to yours, this Chicken Tortilla Soup reminds me of cozy evenings with friends. I remember the first time I whipped it up it was a hit at our family gathering, with everyone asking for seconds! This recipe not only delivers great taste but also helps you create those memorable moments around the table, just like my blog aims to do.
To give you a better idea, here’s a quick table comparing this soup to other favorites:
| Soup Type | Prep Time | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tortilla Soup | 10 minutes | High in protein and antioxidants |
| Vegetable Stew | 15 minutes | Loaded with fiber and vitamins |
| Tomato Basil Soup | 20 minutes | Rich in lycopene for heart health |
As you can see, Chicken Tortilla Soup stands out for its speed and nutrition. For more ideas on quick meals, check out our chicken taco casserole recipe for another easy favorite!
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Tortilla Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Tortilla Soup
- 5. Mastering Chicken Tortilla Soup: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Chicken Tortilla Soup: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tortilla Soup
- 8. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a fantastic Chicken Tortilla Soup that bursts with flavor! This section lists everything you need, based on a reliable recipe that emphasizes fresh, bold tastes. Let’s break it down into a clear, structured list so you can shop and prepare with ease.
The Full Ingredient List
Based on the recipe details, here’s every item required. I’ve formatted it as a structured list with precise measurements to ensure you get it just right. Each ingredient is listed on a new line, with the quantity clearly stated before the name for easy reference.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 onion roughly chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic roughly chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper (stem and seeds removed, roughly chopped)
- kösher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper
- 1 can (14 ounces) fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 3/4 cup black beans
- 3/4 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
- shredded cheese (for garnish)
- quartered limes (for garnish)
- cubed avocado (for garnish)
- cilantro (for garnish)
- sliced green onions (for garnish)
- 2 small corn tortillas cut into thin strips (for garnish)
- sliced jalapenos (for garnish)
This list covers all the essentials, making it simple for home cooks like you to follow along. For instance, the olive oil helps sauté the veggies, while spices like cumin and chipotle add that smoky kick. Remember, this hearty soup provides about 277 calories per serving, with a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Why These Ingredients Matter
Each item plays a role in creating a balanced dish. Fresh veggies like onion and garlic build the base, while additions like black beans and corn boost nutrition. If you’re curious about the health angle, check out this resource on health benefits of chicken to see how it supports your diet.
How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Tortilla Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting Chicken Tortilla Soup just right is all about following simple steps that lead to amazing results! With a total prep time of about 10 minutes and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal in under 40 minutes. Let me walk you through it, blending in the detailed instructions from a tried-and-true recipe.
First, start by heating a large saucepan over medium-high heat with the 2 teaspoons of olive oil. This sets the stage for sautéing the onion, garlic, and jalapeno until the onion turns translucent and the jalapeno softens usually about 3-4 minutes.
Next, season the mix with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to let those flavors bloom. Then, add the 1 can of fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles along with 3 cups of chicken stock, bring it to a boil, and reduce the heat to simmer for 30 minutes.
After that, blend the soup using an immersion blender until it’s smooth and creamy. Stir in the 3/4 cup black beans, 3/4 cup frozen corn, and 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken, then adjust the seasoning as needed for your taste. Finally, divide the soup into four bowls and top with shredded cheese, cubed avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, lime juice, and sliced jalapenos for that perfect finish.
For the tortilla strips, heat vegetable oil in a skillet and fry the strips from the 2 small corn tortillas for 30-45 seconds until they’re crisp, then drain on paper towels. This step adds a fun crunch that makes the soup even more enjoyable! If you’re looking for more chicken-based ideas, try our Chicken Alfredo Tater Tot Casserole for another cozy option.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Tortilla Soup
Making Chicken Tortilla Soup your own is easy with a few swaps! Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or watching calories, these adjustments keep the flavor bold and fresh. Let’s dive into some options that fit different lifestyles.
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Mastering Chicken Tortilla Soup: Advanced Tips and Variations
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How to Store Chicken Tortilla Soup: Best Practices
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FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tortilla Soup
What ingredients do I need to make authentic chicken tortilla soup?
To make authentic chicken tortilla soup, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onions, garlic, canned corn, black beans, and green chilies. Common seasonings include cumin, chili powder, and oregano. For garnish, crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime are traditional. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and comforting soup.
How can I thicken chicken tortilla soup without changing the flavor?
To thicken chicken tortilla soup without altering its flavor significantly, blend a portion of the cooked vegetables and beans with some broth and stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, adding a small amount of masa harina (corn flour) dissolved in water while simmering helps thicken the broth naturally. Allowing the soup to simmer uncovered for longer also reduces excess liquid, resulting in a thicker consistency.
Can I prepare chicken tortilla soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, chicken tortilla soup works well in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. For a slow cooker, combine all ingredients except garnish and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours; shred the chicken before serving. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for onions and spices, then pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes. Quick release the pressure, shred the chicken, and add garnish before serving.
How long does chicken tortilla soup last in the fridge and freezer?
Chicken tortilla soup can be stored safely in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing toppings like avocado, cheese, or crispy tortilla strips—add these fresh when you reheat and serve the soup to maintain their texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to make homemade tortilla strips for chicken tortilla soup?
To make homemade tortilla strips, cut corn tortillas into thin strips and toss them lightly with oil and a pinch of salt. Then, bake them in a single layer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crisp and golden, or fry them in hot oil until crunchy. Homemade strips add a fresh, crispy texture to the soup and are easy to customize with spices like chili powder or cumin.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Description
🍲 Enjoy a comforting bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup filled with bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
🌿 This recipe is perfect for a nutritious meal that warms you up while providing ample protein and fiber.
Ingredients
– 2 teaspoons olive oil
– 1 onion roughly chopped
– 3-4 cloves garlic roughly chopped
– 1 jalapeno pepper (stem and seeds removed, roughly chopped)
– kösher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper
– 1 can (14 ounces) fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles
– 3 cups chicken stock
– 3/4 cup black beans
– 3/4 cup frozen corn
– 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
– shredded cheese for garnish
– quartered limes for garnish
– cubed avocado for garnish
– cilantro for garnish
– sliced green onions for garnish
– 2 small corn tortillas cut into thin strips for garnish
– sliced jalapenos for garnish
Instructions
1-First, start by heating a large saucepan over medium-high heat with the 2 teaspoons of olive oil. This sets the stage for sautéing the onion, garlic, and jalapeno until the onion turns translucent and the jalapeno softens usually about 3-4 minutes.
2-Next, season the mix with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to let those flavors bloom. Then, add the 1 can of fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles along with 3 cups of chicken stock, bring it to a boil, and reduce the heat to simmer for 30 minutes.
3-After that, blend the soup using an immersion blender until it’s smooth and creamy. Stir in the 3/4 cup black beans, 3/4 cup frozen corn, and 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken, then adjust the seasoning as needed for your taste. Finally, divide the soup into four bowls and top with shredded cheese, cubed avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, lime juice, and sliced jalapenos for that perfect finish.
4-For the tortilla strips, heat vegetable oil in a skillet and fry the strips from the 2 small corn tortillas for 30-45 seconds until they’re crisp, then drain on paper towels. This step adds a fun crunch that makes the soup even more enjoyable!
Notes
🔥 Use fresh jalapenos for appropriate heat control according to your preference.
🥄 Fry the tortilla strips just before serving to keep them crispy.
🍋 Adding lime juice at the end brightens the flavors wonderfully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 277 per serving
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Chicken Tortilla Soup, Fresh Ingredients, Bold Flavors, Easy Soup