Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warming bowl filled with juicy chicken, tasty tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla strips. It’s a fiesta in a bowl with lots of flavor!
I always add a sprinkle of cheese and some avocado on top because why not make it extra delicious? 🌶️ It’s super easy to whip up on a chilly day!
This soup is great for dinner and even better as leftovers the next day. Plus, you can make it as spicy or mild as you like—everyone can join the party!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil: This adds a nice flavor when sautéing. You can use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you’re out of olive oil. For a Mexican twist, try using a bit of corn oil!
Onion: A medium onion is great for flavor. If you don’t have onions, shallots or leeks work well. Even green onions can be used for a milder taste.
Bell Pepper: Both red and green peppers are fine. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, go for red. You can also use canned green chilies for a different taste.
Chicken:** I prefer using rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you want a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or tofu instead!
Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices bring warmth and depth. If you like heat, you can add cayenne pepper or paprika for more flavor.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Chicken Tortilla Soup Without Losing Flavor?
The key to a flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup starts with sautéing your aromatics right. Take your time to cook the onions until they are soft, as this allows their sweetness to enhance the soup. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced bell peppers; stir for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast the cumin and chili powder by cooking them briefly in the pot before adding broth.
Following these steps ensures you build layers of flavor, creating a delicious base for your soup. Remember, patience is key!
How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced jalapeños
- Avocado, diced
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook. In total, you should set aside about 35 minutes to have a warm, hearty soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook it for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is fragrant and slightly tender.
2. Add Spices and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the ground cumin and chili powder. Mix well and let the spices toast for about 1 minute, which will bring out their flavors. Now, pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for around 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Combine Remaining Ingredients:
After the soup has simmered, add in the black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Stir everything together and let it continue to simmer for another 10 minutes until everything is heated through. Squeeze in the lime juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir!
4. Serve with Toppings:
Your Chicken Tortilla Soup is now ready to enjoy! Ladle it into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, and sliced green onions as desired. Serve hot and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can use raw chicken in this recipe! Simply add bite-sized pieces of raw chicken after sautéing the vegetables. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned, then continue with the recipe from adding the tomatoes and broth.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or water as a substitute. For added flavor, consider adding bouillon cubes or seasoning your water with additional spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and a splash of soy sauce.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder, add diced fresh jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables, or incorporate diced habanero or serrano peppers for a more intense kick.
