Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

If you’re after a bowl of pure, soul-warming comfort with bold Southwestern flair, Chicken Tortilla Soup is exactly what you need. This beloved classic layers tender chicken, sweet corn, hearty black beans, and vibrant tomatoes with just the right blend of spices. Finished with crispy homemade tortilla strips and fresh toppings, every bite delivers a delightful medley of flavors and textures. No matter if you’re chasing away a chilly evening or simply craving a lively, cheerful meal, Chicken Tortilla Soup always delivers a flavorful, satisfying experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Chicken Tortilla Soup is how easily it comes together from simple, everyday ingredients. Each component brings a special something, whether it’s aroma, flavor, color, or that irresistible crunch, making this dish as crave-worthy as it is comforting.

• Olive oil: Adds depth and silkiness, perfect for sautéing vegetables and creating a savory flavor base.
• Onion: Brings a mellow sweetness and softens beautifully in the soup, creating aromatic warmth.
• Garlic: A must-have for punchy, aromatic flavor that brings life to every bite.
• Jalapeño pepper: Offers a gentle, fresh heat that perks up the entire pot; adjust seeds for spice control.
• Ground cumin: Infuses the soup with earthy depth and that signature tex-mex flavor.
• Chilli powder: Gives the soup a slight smokiness and plenty of Southwestern attitude.
• Chicken breasts: The hearty, protein-studded stars of the soup, they shred easily once simmered to tender perfection.
• Crushed tomatoes: Lends tangy brightness and rich color while making the broth undeniably satisfying.
• Chicken broth: Forms the body of the soup with savory, layered flavor and warmth.
• Black beans: Offer protein and creamy texture, making every spoonful hearty and filling.
• Corn: Brings sweetness and a pop of color, balancing the spices with playful bites.
• Cilantro: Fresh, citrusy and vibrant; use in the soup and as a bright garnish at the end.
• Lime juice: Adds a lively zing, lifting all the flavors and keeping things fresh.
• Salt: Unlocks and amplifies every flavor in the pot; taste and adjust as you go.
• Corn tortillas: Essential for the homemade tortilla strips, these give the soup its iconic, crave-worthy crunch.
• Avocado: Creamy, dreamy, and just right for dolloping on top for a fresh finish.
• Lime wedges: For squeezing over the finished soup, adding that extra bright citrus pop.

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Tortilla Strips

Start by making those iconic crispy tortilla strips that put the finishing touch on Chicken Tortilla Soup. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cut corn tortillas into thin strips and fry them in batches, turning as needed, until they’re irresistibly golden and crisp. Drain them on paper towels and sprinkle with a little salt while still hot. These are best made fresh, so resist snacking on too many before topping your soup!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, grab a large pot and heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño until they soften and become fragrant. This is where the soup’s irresistible aroma begins to bloom—it’s the inviting base that sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Add the whole chicken breasts to the pot along with the black beans, corn, crushed tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, 1/4 cup of cilantro, and chicken broth. Stir in the salt. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for at least 25 minutes. This lets the flavors mingle, and the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot after simmering. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces—it’s already packed with the soup’s flavor! Return the shredded chicken to the simmering soup, and let it cook for another 5 minutes so everything comes together seamlessly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Finishers and Serve

Turn off the heat and brighten the soup with a good squeeze of lime juice. Ladle hot Chicken Tortilla Soup into bowls and pile on the toppings: crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and wedges of lime for squeezing. Each bowl bursts with color and texture—a complete sensory treat.

How to Serve Chicken Tortilla Soup

Garnishes

Garnishing might just be the best part! Set out bowls of crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges so everyone can customize their Chicken Tortilla Soup just how they like it. A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream is also welcome if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty on its own, but pair it with a side of warm cornbread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. If you’re serving a crowd, a platter of quesadillas or cheesy nachos turns dinner into a fun, interactive feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Pour Chicken Tortilla Soup into colorful mugs for a cozy, casual gathering, or ladle it into shot glasses topped with a mini tortilla strip for an appetizer at your next party. Set up a DIY topping bar so guests can personalize every bowl—easy, interactive, and guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors deepen as it sits, making tomorrow’s lunch even more delicious! Store garnishes and tortilla strips separately to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

Freezing

Chicken Tortilla Soup freezes beautifully (just leave off the toppings until serving). Simply cool the soup to room temperature, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, cover the bowl loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between each, until piping hot. Add your freshly prepped tortilla strips and toppings just before serving to keep those textures on point.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Shred cooked rotisserie chicken and add it to the soup after simmering the other ingredients for about 15 minutes. This shortcut is perfect when you’re short on time and still want that homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup magic.

Is Chicken Tortilla Soup spicy?

It has a mild, family-friendly kick thanks to the jalapeño and chili powder. If you love extra heat, keep the jalapeño seeds or add a splash of hot sauce. For a milder soup, skip the jalapeño entirely.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace chicken with more beans, or sautéed veggies like zucchini and bell pepper. You’ll still enjoy all the classic Chicken Tortilla Soup flavors, minus the meat.

What are some variations on toppings for Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Beyond the traditional toppings, try crumbled queso fresco, sliced radishes, pickled onions, or a swirl of crema. The beauty of Chicken Tortilla Soup is how easy it is to customize every bowl to your craving.

How long does Chicken Tortilla Soup last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, Chicken Tortilla Soup stays fresh for 3 to 4 days. Just remember to keep the tortilla strips separate so they stay crisp until serving time!

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistibly joyful about sitting down to a bowl of homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup—especially when you know that every ingredient is there to comfort and delight. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!

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