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- 1 Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: A Warm Hug in a Bowl
Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: A Warm Hug in a Bowl
Are you prepared to savor a dish that embodies the comfort of your favorite blanket, yet bursts with robust, zesty flavors? Say hello to Chicken Tortilla Soup, a recipe that combines the best of hearty ingredients, aromatic spices, and a cultural heritage that’s all about bringing people together.
This soup, rooted in Mexican cuisine, has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of people worldwide. Loved for its versatility and satisfying flavors, it’s a dish that can transform into dinner for one or a crowd-pleaser for family and friends. Whether you’re looking to experiment with fresh, healthy meals or indulge in culinary nostalgia, chicken tortilla soup is the way to do it.
And the best part? It’s as easy to make as it is delicious. By the end of this post, you’ll become an expert at making chicken tortilla soup, potentially turning your home into a “soup central.”
A Classic Recipe: How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup
This classic chicken tortilla soup recipe makes about 6 hearty servings and is bursting with flavor. It’s delightful on its own but also super customizable (more on that later!). Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (or keep the seeds for extra spice!)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor, if available)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn (fresh works too!)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonders)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings (optional, but SO good!)
- Crispy tortilla strips (or crushed tortilla chips)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack are great options)
- Avocado slices
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens.
- Add the spices: Stir in the cumin and chili powder. Cook for about 30 seconds to awaken the flavors.
- Pour in the liquids: Add the chicken broth and tomatoes. Stir everything together, then turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the heartiness: Stir in the black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Lower the heat to simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste (and more chili powder if you’d like an extra kick).
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with tortilla strips, cheese, avocado, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy every bite!
Read more: Best Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Health Benefits of Chicken Tortilla Soup
This soup is not only a feast of flavors, but it is also brimming with nutritional goodness. Here’s a breakdown of its key health benefits:
- High Protein: With shredded chicken as its base, this soup is fantastic for promoting muscle health and keeping you full.
- Rich in Fiber: Black beans and corn contribute a healthy dose of fiber, which supports digestive health and keeps you satisfied longer.
- Low in Calories: While incredibly filling, chicken tortilla soup is relatively low in calories, making it a great choice for weight management.
- Loaded with Vitamins: The inclusion of tomatoes, jalapeño, and avocado provides vitamins A, C, and E to boost your immune system and skin health.
Variations and Customizations
Don’t be afraid to make this dish your own! Here are some fun ways to customize your chicken tortilla soup to suit any dietary preferences or cravings.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. Add more beans or roasted sweet potatoes for that hearty touch.
- Spice It Up: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in some heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a luxuriously creamy texture. (Psst… a dollop of sour cream is also a game-changer!)
- Gluten-Free Option: Most tortilla chips and strips are gluten-free, but double-check the packaging to be safe.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your chicken tortilla soup with any of these delights for an unforgettable meal experience!
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet, crumbly cornbread makes the perfect sidekick.
- Mexican Rice: A bit of savory rice on the side pairs wonderfully with the soup’s flavors.
- Fresh Salad: Keep it light and crunchy with a simple green salad or a tangy cabbage slaw.
- Margarita or Agua Fresca: Because what’s a Mexican-inspired feast without a refreshing drink to go with it?
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here are some insider tricks to elevate your soup to a new level.
- Use Homemade Broth: If time allows, homemade chicken broth adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Season Gradually: Always taste as you cook! This ensures the balance of spices is just right.
- Make Tortilla Strips Fresh: Fry up strips of corn tortillas in a bit of oil for a crispy, golden topping. Store-bought works fine too, but nothing beats fresh!
- Advance Prep: The soup base can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and add fresh toppings.
Rediscover Comfort, One Bowl at a Time
Chicken tortilla soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. From the tantalizing aroma of onions and spices to the first spoonful of hearty deliciousness, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your home. Feeling inspired? Gather your ingredients and try it out this weekend!
Hello, my name is Mary. I’m a passionate food and drink enthusiast, sharing flavorful recipes, creative drinks, and culinary inspiration from around the world. With a love for exploring new tastes and traditions, I bring a mix of easy-to-follow guides and expert tips to make every meal an adventure. Follow along for delicious discoveries and a toast to positive living!