best chicken tortilla soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best best chicken tortilla soup recipe

I’m so excited to share this best chicken tortilla soup recipe with you all. This hearty and comforting soup has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become one in yours as well. The dish originated from the traditional Mexican soup, Pozole, which is a flavorful and nutritious meal made with hominy and pork or chicken.

Over time, it has evolved into various versions, including this delicious chicken tortilla soup recipe that I’m sharing today. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients and flavors. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and rich broth will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling full and content.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to your family’s tastes. If you prefer a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the pot.

If you’re watching your calorie intake, use leaner protein sources like chicken breast or turkey instead of thighs. And if you’re short on time, use pre-cooked chicken or store-bought broth to speed up the cooking process. In terms of health benefits, this soup is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables add fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. The broth is made with low-sodium chicken stock and spices that are easy on the stomach. Overall, this recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of nutrients while enjoying a delicious meal.

Best Chicken Tortilla Soup

Best Chicken Tortilla Soup

4.6 from 1168 votes

A rich and flavorful chicken tortilla soup with a smoky tomato base, tender shredded chicken, and crispy tortilla strips. This hearty soup is topped with avocado, cheese, and a squeeze of lime for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn kernels
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Toppings

4 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Toss the tortilla strips with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt on a baking sheet.
3Spread them in a single layer and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden and crispy, stirring halfway through.
4Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
5Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
6Stir in the garlic, jalapeno, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Pour in the chicken broth, fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, and diced green chiles.
8Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
9Add the chicken breasts, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
10Remove the chicken from the pot and set it on a cutting board.
11Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
12Stir the black beans and frozen corn into the soup and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until heated through.
13Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the lime juice.
14Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
15Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
16Serve with lime wedges on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Baking sheet
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a spicier soup, leave the seeds in the jalapeno or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Watch Video Of How Best Chicken Tortilla Soup Works

This best chicken tortilla soup recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight meal.

It’s also incredibly versatile – serve it as a main course with some crusty bread or as a side dish alongside your favorite tacos or grilled meats.

For storage ideas, consider freezing individual portions in containers for up to 3 months or refrigerating leftovers for up to 5 days before reheating them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

The best type of chicken for this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can use either one or a combination of both for added flavor and texture.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this soup in advance by preparing all the ingredients ahead of time and storing them in separate containers in the refrigerator or freezer.

3. How long does it take to cook?

The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish.

4. Can I add other ingredients to make it more flavorful?

Yes, you can add various ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cooked rice to make it more flavorful.

5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains chicken broth as the primary ingredient; however, you can easily substitute it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

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