Delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: A Comforting and Flavorful Favorite
Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and flavorful meal, Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect choice. This Mexican-inspired dish combines tender chicken, bold spices, and a tomato-based broth topped with crispy tortilla strips. It’s easy to prepare, full of nutritious ingredients, and makes a great meal for any season. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup
To make a classic Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 medium onion, chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for heat)
-
1 teaspoon ground cumin
-
1 teaspoon chili powder
-
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
-
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
-
4 cups chicken broth
-
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
-
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 cup frozen corn
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Juice of 1 lime
-
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the tortilla strips:
-
6 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
-
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
-
Salt to taste
How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. Prepare the Tortilla Strips
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Toss the tortilla strips with oil and a pinch of salt.
-
Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
-
Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Soup Base
-
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
-
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
-
Stir in the garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
-
Add cumin, chili powder, and paprika; stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
3. Build the Soup
-
Add both cans of diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot.
-
Stir in the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn.
-
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes to blend flavors.
-
Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
4. Serve
-
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips.
-
Garnish with chopped cilantro and add toppings like avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup
-
Easy to make: Most ingredients are pantry staples and prep is minimal.
-
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
-
Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
-
Perfect for leftovers: The soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Conclusion
This Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether served as a main course or a starter, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and bring a little spice and comfort to your table.