The aroma of a warm bowl of chicken tortilla soup wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. Picture tender chicken swimming in a savory broth, mingling with vibrant tomatoes, zesty lime, and a sprinkle of cheese that melts into gooey perfection. Each spoonful is like a hug from your favorite auntie on a chilly day, making you feel right at home. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
This delightful dish isn’t just for those dreary winter nights; it’s perfect for game day gatherings or when you’re feeling under the weather. Trust me, one taste will have you dreaming of sun-soaked beaches and spicy fiestas, all while nestled on your couch in your comfiest pajamas.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken tortilla soup offers an effortless cooking experience that’s packed with flavor.
- The customizable ingredients allow for creativity based on personal taste or pantry availability.
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
- Enjoy it as a hearty meal or a light appetizer—it’s versatile enough for any occasion!
Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well here; adjust according to your feeding frenzy!
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm garlic cloves to enhance the flavor profile of this soup.
- Onion: A medium onion adds essential depth and sweetness to the broth.
- Diced Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick. One pot chili mac.
- Chicken Broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine if you’re short on time.
- Cumin: This spice brings an earthy warmth that makes your taste buds dance.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up all those flavors beautifully.
For Toppings:
- Corn Tortilla Strips: Crunchy strips add texture and fun to each bite.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterrey Jack will melt perfectly into the soup.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that makes everything better.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning those boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown. You want that nice color because we’re fancy like that!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once your chicken is looking dapper, remove it from the pot and toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Stir them around until they become translucent—about three minutes should do it. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Step 3: Build Flavor
Now, let’s get spicy! Add your diced tomatoes (with their juices), cumin, and chicken broth back into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while you daydream about how amazing this soup will taste.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
While everything simmers away (remember to stir occasionally), shred that beautiful chicken using two forks. Voila! You’ve just created shredded chicken magic!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add your shredded chicken back to the pot along with some freshly squeezed lime juice. Let all those flavors mingle together for about five more minutes.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Finally, ladle this glorious soup into bowls and top with crunchy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra lime juice for that perfect finishing touch.
Enjoy every spoonful as laughter fills the air among friends or family gathered around the table. This chicken tortilla soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen!
You Must Know
- This delightful chicken tortilla soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- Packed with flavors and spices, it’s perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little pick-me-up.
- Customize it as you wish, and watch as it becomes a family favorite!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to release their aromatic goodness. Then, sear the chicken until golden brown. While that sizzles, chop your veggies and prepare the broth. This way, everything comes together seamlessly for delicious chicken tortilla soup. For more inspiration, check out this garlic shrimp recipe recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beans for lentils or add corn for sweetness. Spice lovers can amp up the heat with jalapeños or chipotle peppers. Don’t forget to top with avocado, cheese, and crispy tortilla strips for that extra crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken tortilla soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect chicken tortilla soup, ensure your chicken is cooked through but not overdone to avoid dryness.
- Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor, and don’t skip the toppings—they’re essential!
- Lastly, let the soup simmer longer for deeper flavor.
Sometimes I whip this up on chilly evenings, and my friends rave about how I should open a restaurant! Little do they know it’s just my secret stash of spices at work.
FAQs :
What is chicken tortilla soup?
Chicken tortilla soup is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines shredded chicken, vegetables, and spices in a rich broth. It often features ingredients like tomatoes, corn, black beans, and chili peppers. Crockpot lentil chili Tortilla strips are added for crunch and served with toppings such as avocado, cheese, and lime. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a warm meal.
How do I make chicken tortilla soup from scratch?
To make chicken tortilla soup from scratch, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices to the mix. Incorporate shredded chicken and any other desired vegetables. Let it simmer until the flavors meld together. Finally, serve hot with crispy tortilla strips and your choice of toppings. This homemade version allows you to control the flavors and ingredients.
Can I make chicken tortilla soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare chicken tortilla soup in advance! Cook the soup as directed but hold off on adding toppings until you’re ready to serve. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add fresh tortilla strips and toppings to keep them crunchy. Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even more!
Is chicken tortilla soup healthy?
Chicken tortilla soup can be a healthy option when made with fresh ingredients. It is typically low in calories but high in protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and vegetables. To maximize health benefits, consider using low-sodium broth and incorporating plenty of veggies. You can also adjust toppings based on dietary preferences for a lighter or more indulgent meal.
Conclusion for chicken tortilla Soup :
In summary, chicken tortilla soup is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. With its mix of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and crispy tortillas, it’s not only comforting but also adaptable to various dietary needs. Creamy baked potato soup This versatile recipe can be made ahead of time for convenience or customized with different toppings according to personal taste. Enjoy this delightful soup as a main course or appetizer any day of the week!
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken tortilla soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or lively gatherings. This vibrant dish features tender chicken simmered in a zesty broth enriched with tomatoes, spices, and garnished with crispy tortilla strips. Easy to customize, it’s a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy a warm bowl that feels like home, no matter the season!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp cumin
- Juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup)
- 1 cup corn tortilla strips
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add diced tomatoes, cumin, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot with lime juice. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot topped with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1½ cups)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg






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