Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you’re looking for a warming dish that bursts with flavor, Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect choice. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and zesty spices, making it a comforting meal for both family dinners and cozy nights in. It’s a delightful blend of textures and tastes, topped with crispy tortilla chips and creamy avocado, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious bowl of goodness!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 250
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg

Why I Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Chicken Tortilla Soup is a special recipe in my home because it’s so easy to whip up and always brings comfort on chilly nights. There’s something magical about combining the tender chicken with the vibrant spices and the crunch of tortilla chips. Every time I make this soup, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a gathering with friends. It’s definitely a recipe that will make your kitchen smell inviting and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips for serving
• Avocado, lime, cilantro for garnish

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Then add the drained black beans, corn, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Simmer

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes. This is when the aroma fills your kitchen, warming up the whole house.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Next, stir in the shredded chicken and cook until it’s heated through, about 5 more minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with crispy tortilla chips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra kick!

Tips and Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño along with the onions.
• If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, you can substitute the chicken with extra beans or quinoa.
• Feel free to customize your toppings—Mexican cheese or sour cream make excellent choices!
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze for a few months.

Delicious Variations

1. Minestrone Soup – A vegetable-packed Italian classic that’s perfect for a hearty meal.
2. Tortellini Soup – Combine tortellini and veggies in a savory broth for a delightful twist.
3. Chili – A robust and spicy option, perfect for chilly nights and gatherings.
4. Pumpkin Soup – Creamy and comforting, this soup warms you from the inside out.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serve your Chicken Tortilla Soup steaming hot in a bowl, ideally accompanied by a side of fresh bread or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and a refreshing glass of iced tea or a light beer pairs wonderfully with it. You might also consider serving it with a side of guacamole to enhance those rich flavors even more!

Storage and Leftovers

To store your Chicken Tortilla Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave room in the container for the soup to expand as it freezes!

Helpful Questions

1. Can I use raw chicken?
   Yes! You can add raw chicken to the pot before adding other ingredients. Just ensure it cooks thoroughly.

2. What type of chicken works best?
   Any cooked chicken works, but rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves cooking time!

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. How spicy is this soup?
   The heat level depends on the chili powder used. Adjust according to your preference by adding more spices or jalapeños.

5. What if I don’t have black beans?
   You can substitute black beans with pinto beans, white beans, or even lentils for a different flavor profile!

Enjoy making your delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup!

Print