Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: Chicken tortilla soup is the ultimate comfort food – a hearty, flavorful dish loaded with tender chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and vibrant spices. It’s warm, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a cozy gathering, this soup has you covered.
What makes chicken tortilla soup so special? The combination of spices, tender chicken, and toppings like avocado and cilantro gives it layers of flavor. Plus, you can customize it to fit your taste perfectly. Now, let’s dive right in and explore how you can make this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen!
Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to make chicken tortilla soup:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or pre-cooked shredded chicken)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn
- 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tortilla Strips:
- 4 small corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Chopped cilantro
- Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Blender or immersion blender
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle for serving
- Baking sheet (if baking tortilla strips)
Time Required:
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
- Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and chopping the jalapeño (if using).
- Shred the cooked chicken if you’re using pre-cooked meat. If using raw chicken breasts, they’ll cook directly in the soup later.
- Slice the tortillas into thin strips for frying or baking.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the flavors of the spices.
Step 3: Adding the Broth and Chicken
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- If you’re using raw chicken breasts, add them to the pot at this stage. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
Step 4: Blending the Soup Base
- Take about half of the soup (with the tomatoes and broth) and blend it until smooth.
- Return the blended portion to the pot. This step ensures your soup is both thick and hearty while still having some chunky texture.
Step 5: Adding the Final Ingredients
- Stir in the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes on low heat.
Step 6: Simmering for Full Flavor
- Allow the soup to cook for a little longer so the flavors blend beautifully. This step brings everything together, creating a delicious, well-balanced dish.
How to Make Crispy Tortilla Strips
Option 1: Pan-Frying
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the tortilla strips in small batches and fry until golden and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
Option 2: Baking
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the tortilla strips on a baking sheet and brush with oil.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crispy tortilla strips. Add your favorite toppings – a few avocado slices, a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice elevate the soup’s flavor.
Topping Ideas for Extra Flavor
- Avocado: Adds creaminess
- Cheese: Queso fresco or shredded cheddar
- Sour cream: Balances the spices
- Jalapeños: For extra heat
- Cilantro: Brings a fresh, herbal touch
Variations of Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with extra beans and vegetable broth.
- Rotisserie Chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken for a faster meal.
- Spicy Twist: Add chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy kick.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Makes it dry and tough. Shred the chicken as soon as it’s done cooking.
- Under-seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
Why You Should Make It at Home Instead of Ordering Out
Making chicken tortilla soup at home is budget-friendly and gives you full control over the ingredients. You can adjust the spice level, skip ingredients you don’t like, and use high-quality produce for the best flavor.
FAQs about Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
1. What is Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty Mexican-inspired dish made with shredded chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, often topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese for extra texture.
2. What ingredients do I need for Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You’ll need shredded chicken, chicken broth, tomatoes, onions, garlic, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and tortillas. Optional toppings include avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and lime.
3. How do I thicken Chicken Tortilla Soup?
To make the soup thicker, blend a portion of the soup base and add it back into the pot. Alternatively, use cornmeal or masa harina to thicken it while cooking.
4. How long does it take to cook Chicken Tortilla Soup?
On average, it takes 30–40 minutes from start to finish. If you are using pre-cooked shredded chicken, it can be ready in under 30 minutes.
5. Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup ahead of time?
Yes! Chicken Tortilla Soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
6. Can I freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup without the toppings for up to 3 months. When reheating, add fresh toppings for the best texture and flavor.
7. What can I serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Serve it with a side of cornbread, Mexican rice, or a simple green salad. Tortilla chips, guacamole, or salsa also make great accompaniments.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade chicken tortilla soup – it’s warming, flavorful, and satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this dish any time you crave a hearty meal. Plus, the ability to customize the toppings makes it perfect for everyone. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this recipe is a winner!
References
To enhance the credibility of the information provided in the Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, we’ve compiled reputable sources that offer additional insights and validation. These resources ensure you have access to expert advice and variations to experiment with:
- AllRecipes: A reliable source for home-cooked meals, featuring detailed step-by-step instructions for making Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Visit AllRecipes - Food Network: Offers chef-inspired tips and variations, ensuring you make the perfect soup every time.
Visit Food Network - Simply Recipes: Known for well-tested, easy-to-follow recipes that align with both home-cooking enthusiasts and professionals.
Visit Simply Recipes
Feel free to explore these links to deepen your knowledge and try out new variations to make your soup even more exciting. These references also serve as a foundation for ensuring the accuracy of the information we’ve provided.
