If you’re hunting for a comforting bowl that packs a flavor punch, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe. Let’s dive straight into making Chicken Tortilla Soup—a dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious. With every spoonful, you get a burst of vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and the crunch of tortillas, all melded together in a rich broth that’s utterly addictive.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Soup
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we get started, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Blender (optional, for sauce)
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a showstopper, and having the right equipment ensures smooth cooking.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Chicken breast, cooked and shredded | 2 cups |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
Jalapeño, diced | 1 |
Fire-roasted tomatoes, canned | 14 oz |
Chicken broth | 4 cups |
Black beans, drained | 1 can (15 oz) |
Corn, frozen or fresh | 1 cup |
Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Lime juice | 2 tablespoons |
Tortilla strips | For garnish |
Avocado, sliced | For garnish |
Fact: Did you know that Chicken Tortilla Soup is believed to have originated from the Aztec Empire as a way to use leftover tortillas?
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Base
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeño, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
A good sauté can make all the difference in flavor depth!
Step 2 – Simmer the Ingredients
- Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Simmering not only enhances flavors but also ensures everything melds perfectly.
Step 3 – Add Chicken and Final Touches
- Add the shredded chicken and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
Fresh cilantro and lime juice add a burst of freshness that elevates the soup!
Additional Tips
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the broth with some beans and tomatoes, then stir it back into the pot.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less jalapeño.
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken Tortilla Soup pairs wonderfully with:
- A side of cheesy quesadillas
- A crisp garden salad
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 28 g |
Carbohydrates | 44 g |
Fat | 9 g |
Approximations are based on standard serving sizes and common ingredient measurements.
Dietary Information
This recipe is a great option for gluten-free diets. To adapt it for vegetarians, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the chicken.
FAQs about Chicken Tortilla Soup
What can I use instead of chicken in Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You can use shredded jackfruit or tofu as a vegetarian alternative.
How can I make my Chicken Tortilla Soup creamier?
Add a dollop of sour cream or stir in some heavy cream during the last five minutes of cooking.
Can Chicken Tortilla Soup be frozen?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just omit the garnishes and add them fresh when you reheat it.
What are the best toppings for Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Avocado slices, tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime are fantastic.
Is Chicken Tortilla Soup spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted. Use less jalapeño or chili powder for a milder version.
How long does Chicken Tortilla Soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the soup can last up to 5 days.
Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients except the cilantro and lime in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl. Every ingredient plays its part in creating a symphony of flavors that’s just irresistible. I invite you to try this recipe and tweak it to your taste—cooking is all about making it your own!
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Leave your comments, questions, or feedback below. Let’s chat about your experience with this delightful soup!
Check out some more delicious soup recipes:
- Escarole Bean Soup Recipe
- Rafferty’s Potato Soup Recipe
- Bill Millers Soup Recipe
- Eat n Park Potato Soup Recipe
Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Blender (optional, for sauce)
Ingredients
- 2 cups Chicken breast cooked and shredded
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 Jalapeño diced
- 14 oz Fire-roasted tomatoes canned
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 1 can 15 oz Black beans, drained
- 1 cup Corn frozen or fresh
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- To taste Salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
- For garnish Tortilla strips
- For garnish Avocado sliced
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Base
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeño, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- A good sauté can make all the difference in flavor depth!
Step 2 – Simmer the Ingredients
- Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Simmering not only enhances flavors but also ensures everything melds perfectly.
Step 3 – Add Chicken and Final Touches
- Add the shredded chicken and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
- Fresh cilantro and lime juice add a burst of freshness that elevates the soup!
Notes
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the broth with some beans and tomatoes, then stir it back into the pot.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less jalapeño.
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