Chicken tortilla soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that blends the richness of chicken with the crunch of crispy tortilla strips and the heat of spicy seasonings. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch, and it can be customized to suit your personal taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe will have you enjoying a warm, satisfying bowl of chicken tortilla soup in no time.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make a delicious chicken tortilla soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 ounces) green chilies, diced (optional for added spice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado (for topping, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper (if using) to the pot and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Next, sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. These spices are key to giving the soup its deep, flavorful base. Stir the spices into the onion mixture and cook for about 1 minute until they become fragrant. This step enhances the flavor and creates a delicious aroma in your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Chicken Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the green chilies (if using) into the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes. The tomatoes will soften, and their juices will start to combine with the spices, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
Afterward, add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add the Chicken, Corn, and Beans
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients: the shredded chicken, corn kernels, and black beans. Stir everything together and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the corn and beans to warm up. This step will give your soup more substance and texture, making it a satisfying meal.
Step 4: Season and Adjust Flavors
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. Add the lime juice to the soup for a touch of freshness and acidity, which will help balance the flavors and brighten up the dish.
Step 5: Serve the Soup
Once everything is fully cooked and the soup has reached the desired flavor, its time to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and slices of creamy avocado. The crispy tortilla strips add a delightful crunch, while the toppings give the soup extra richness and flavor.
Step 6: Optional Variations and Additions
Chicken tortilla soup is highly customizable, so feel free to add or substitute ingredients to match your preferences:
- Vegetarian Option: If you’d like a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more beans, like pinto or kidney beans, to make it heartier.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your liking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or use spicier chili powder. For a milder soup, skip the green chilies and reduce the chili powder.
- Toppings: In addition to the classic toppings of cheese, sour cream, and avocado, you can add pickled red onions, sliced radishes, or even a squeeze of extra lime juice for more flavor.
Why Chicken Tortilla Soup Is So Popular
Chicken tortilla soup has become a beloved dish for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can adapt the ingredients to fit what you have on hand or cater to different dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or preparing a dish for a crowd, chicken tortilla soup is a great choice.
Another reason for its popularity is the balance of flavors. The combination of savory chicken, spicy seasonings, and the crunch of tortilla strips creates a satisfying and complex dish. Plus, the toppings such as creamy avocado, tangy sour cream, and melty cheese enhance the overall eating experience, making each spoonful feel like a treat.
Lastly, chicken tortilla soup is nutritious and filling. Its a great source of protein from the chicken and beans, and the added vegetables like corn and bell peppers contribute vitamins and fiber. This makes it not only a delicious but also a wholesome option for lunch or dinner.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, chicken tortilla soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to eat. When reheating, be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the soup from separating. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth if the soup thickens too much while stored.
For longer storage, you can freeze chicken tortilla soup for up to 3 months. Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop.
This chicken tortilla soup recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious and comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. Dont forget to experiment with the toppings and variations to make it your own!
