Name: Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 onion, diced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red or green); 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; Tortilla strips for serving

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Introduction

Are you ready to warm your soul with a comforting bowl of chicken tortilla soup? Picture this: tender shreds of chicken swimming in a rich, zesty broth filled with vibrant veggies and topped with crispy tortilla strips. This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth on chilly nights or during cozy gatherings with friends and family.

Whenever I prepare this dish, it takes me back to family dinners where laughter filled the air and the aroma of spices danced around the kitchen. The combination of flavors creates a delightful symphony that tantalizes your taste buds. Ideal for any occasion, this chicken tortilla soup promises to impress your loved ones while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken tortilla soup

Deliciously Comforting: There’s something uniquely satisfying about a steaming bowl of chicken tortilla soup. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich spices creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will leave you craving more. It’s perfect for warming up chilly evenings or enjoying as a hearty lunch.

Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weekdays. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up a delicious pot of soup without stress.

Customizable Ingredients: One of the best aspects of chicken tortilla soup is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you want to add beans for extra protein or throw in some corn for sweetness, the possibilities are endless.

Nourishing and Healthy: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and plenty of vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes, this soup is both nutritious and filling. It’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a hearty base but adjust according to your needs.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing vegetables; it adds richness to the broth.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor profile; ensure they are finely chopped.
Onion: A diced onion adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions work best in this recipe.
Bell Peppers: Red or green bell peppers provide color and crunch; chop them into small pieces.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for added smokiness; they give great flavor.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can better control the saltiness in the final dish.
Tortilla Strips: Store-bought or homemade crispy strips add texture; they are essential for serving.

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:

Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the pot. Sauté until lightly browned on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side.

Sauté Vegetables: Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add minced garlic and diced onion; sauté until translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Then add chopped bell peppers and continue cooking until they soften—another few minutes.

Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) along with low-sodium chicken broth into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Shred Chicken: While waiting for the broth to boil gently shred your cooked chicken using two forks or simply chop into bite-sized pieces. Add shredded chicken back into the pot once simmering occurs.

Season Your Soup: Season with salt, pepper, cumin powder, and chili powder according to taste preferences—allow everything to simmer together for an additional ten minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Transfer to bowls and top generously with crispy tortilla strips along with any additional toppings like avocado slices or cilantro before serving!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce always enhances flavor significantly! Opt for ripe tomatoes rather than canned when possible—this elevates your soup’s taste dramatically.

Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice but still want that Mexican kick consider using milder chili powder or omitting it altogether—it’ll still taste great!

Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this recipe ahead! Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up until five days; reheat gently on stovetop before enjoying again!

Add Extra Toppings: Don’t shy away from garnishing! Try sour cream or shredded cheese atop each bowl for creamy contrast against spiciness!

Enjoy creating this wonderful bowl of comfort!

Mistakes to avoid

Using the wrong chicken cut

Choosing the right chicken cut is essential for a flavorful chicken tortilla soup. Many people opt for chicken breasts, which can become dry when simmered too long. Instead, consider using chicken thighs, as they remain tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. If you prefer white meat, use bone-in breasts for additional flavor. Remember to remove the skin to reduce excess fat but keep it on during cooking to enhance taste. Avoid overcooking your chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety without sacrificing moisture.

Overloading with ingredients

While it’s tempting to add every ingredient in your pantry, this can lead to a muddled flavor profile. Stick to traditional components like tomatoes, beans, corn, and spices that complement each other. Too many different vegetables or proteins can overwhelm the dish. Focus on quality over quantity by selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients that enhance the soup’s overall taste. Additionally, ensure your spices are balanced; adding too much of one can throw off the entire mixture. Aim for a well-rounded flavor that highlights each ingredient without overshadowing them.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken tortilla soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings. You can add sliced avocado for a creamy texture that complements the broth. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. A sprinkle of lime juice brightens the soup and balances its richness, making each spoonful refreshing. Serve it alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and to soak up the delicious flavors.

For a heartier meal, consider serving this Chicken tortilla soup with cornbread. The sweet, buttery flavor of cornbread contrasts nicely with the spicy notes of the soup. You can also prepare a simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette to provide a fresh, crisp element to your meal. This combination will make for a well-rounded dining experience.

If you prefer something more filling, pair your Chicken tortilla soup with quesadillas or grilled cheese sandwiches. These options add a savory component that complements the soup’s texture and flavor. The gooey cheese from quesadillas or sandwiches pairs perfectly with the warm broth, making every bite delightful.

For an extra kick, serve your Chicken tortilla soup with jalapeño slices on top or on the side. This will appeal to those who enjoy spicy food and want to elevate their soup experience further. Additionally, offer sour cream as a topping to balance out any heat while providing creaminess.

FAQs

What are the main ingredients in Chicken tortilla soup?

The primary ingredients for Chicken tortilla soup include shredded chicken, tomatoes, corn, black beans, and spices like cumin and chili powder. You can also use vegetable broth as a base for added depth of flavor. Tortilla strips provide texture and crunch, while toppings such as avocado, cheese, and sour cream enhance the dish.

Can I make Chicken tortilla soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken tortilla soup in advance. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. For best results, reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I freeze Chicken tortilla soup?

Freezing Chicken tortilla soup is possible but not recommended if you plan to include toppings like avocado or sour cream. The best approach is to freeze just the base soup without garnishes in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding fresh toppings.

How can I customize my Chicken tortilla soup?

You can easily customize Chicken tortilla soup by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. You could also switch proteins by using turkey or beef instead of chicken. Adjusting spice levels by adding more chili powder or using mild salsa can cater to your family’s taste preferences.