Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Introduction

Chicken tortilla soup is a warm, comforting dish that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, tender chicken, and a hint of spice. Whether you’re craving something cozy for a chilly evening or looking for a lighter meal in the warmer months, this Mexican-inspired recipe is perfect for any season. Moreover, it provides a well-balanced combination of hearty ingredients and zesty toppings. In this article, we will not only guide you through a detailed, step-by-step process for making a delicious chicken tortilla soup but also explore variations. Additionally, we’ll offer practical tips to help you enhance flavor and presentation, ensuring that your dish is both tasty and visually appealing.

Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients	Quantity
Olive oil	1 Tbsp
Onion (medium), chopped	1
Garlic cloves, minced	3
Jalapeno pepper, seeded & diced	1
Ground cumin	1 Tbsp
Chili powder	1 tsp
Chicken breasts	1 lb (2 medium)
Crushed tomatoes (can)	20 oz
Chicken broth	32 oz
Black beans (can), drained & rinsed	14 oz
Corn (can), drained & rinsed	14 oz
Cilantro, chopped	1/2 cup (divided)
Lime, juiced	1
Salt	1 tsp, or to taste

Homemade Tortilla Strips

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	1/4 cup
Corn tortillas (6″)	8

Toppings

Ingredient	Quantity
Avocado, diced	1 large
Lime, cut into wedges	1

Ingredients of Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Tortilla Soup… 🍳

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Warm a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent.
2. Add the Soup Ingredients:
   Once the aromatics are tender, add the chicken breasts to the pot along with the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, corn, ground cumin, chili powder, half of the chopped cilantro (reserve the other half for garnish), and salt to taste. Stir everything to combine.
3. Cook the Soup:
   Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
   Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and transfer them to a bowl. se two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the shredded chicken back to the soup and stir well to mix.
5. Add Lime Juice:
   Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice for a bright and zesty finish.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and top with homemade crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, For the perfect avocado topping, follow this guide,
   fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for squeezing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:

• For Homemade Tortilla Strips:
  Cut corn tortillas into thin strips, brush them with olive oil, and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy, or fry them in a skillet for extra crunch.

This method ensures a flavorful and vibrant chicken tortilla soup, perfect for any occasion!

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider serving it with a side of Mexican rice, a crisp green salad, or warm corn tortillas. These additions will round out the meal and enhance the overall dining experience.

Variations and Tips

To enhance the flavor of your soup, consider adding roasted corn or using fire-roasted tomatoes. Additionally, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding extra beans or vegetables like Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower for added texture and flavor.

If you enjoy lighter soups, check out this Ultimate Guide to Tomato Basil Soup, which pairs perfectly with this tortilla soup.

For another variation of a hearty meal, the Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole could be another great dish to serve alongside or on a different night when you want a flavorful, easy-to-make recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe (FAQ)

Is it possible to substitute pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for raw chicken breasts?

To save time and add convenience, consider using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, which easily blends into the soup without sacrificing flavor. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup during the last 10 minutes of simmering to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I freeze chicken tortilla soup?

Absolutely! This soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture. Allow the soup to cool fully before placing it in an airtight container for storage. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. Leave out the fresh toppings before freezing and add them fresh when serving.

What can I use as a substitute for jalapeño if I don’t like spicy food?

If you prefer a milder soup, you can skip the jalapeño or replace it with a mild green pepper, such as poblano or green bell pepper.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version. Substitute the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu, chickpeas, or black beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add more heat, include an additional jalapeño, add a dash of cayenne pepper, or use a hot chili powder. You can also garnish with sliced fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

How can I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can easily achieve this by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water. Alternatively, you could use a few tablespoons of masa harina (corn flour) to thicken the broth and enhance the flavor. Both methods will give your soup a rich and hearty consistency.

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