Description
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a rich and hearty comfort food classic combining tender shredded chicken, smoky spices, fresh vegetables, and crispy tortilla strips. Perfect for any season, this vibrant soup delivers bold Mexican-inspired flavors and nourishing qualities, ideal for quick weeknight dinners or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids & Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Toppings & Garnishes
- 1 cup crispy tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- Shredded cheese such as Monterey Jack or cheddar (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant to create a flavorful base.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to thoroughly coat the aromatics. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, cooking for several minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add shredded or diced cooked chicken and let warm through, allowing the chicken to absorb the soup’s flavors.
- Incorporate Beans and Corn: Stir in the drained black beans and corn kernels. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes so the flavors combine into a rich, harmonious soup. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep chicken tender.
- Finish with Lime and Tortilla Strips: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice for brightness. Serve hot topped with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro leaves, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavorful, pre-cooked protein.
- Make fresh tortilla strips by cutting corn tortillas into thin strips, brushing with oil, and baking or frying until crispy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning gradually, balancing salt, spices, and lime juice for optimal flavor.
- Add delicate toppings like avocado and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh.
- Simmer gently after adding chicken to maintain tender, juicy meat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg