Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup | Flavorful & Easy Recipe
1. Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup. It’s warm, spicy, tangy, and loaded with textures — tender chicken, sweet corn, hearty beans, and crunchy tortilla strips, all simmered together in a flavorful tomato and chili broth.
This recipe captures everything people love about Mexican-inspired soups: bold flavor, colorful ingredients, and a balance of spice and freshness. It’s easy to make, healthy, and comes together quickly, making it a go-to weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the vegetables and aromatics.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Adds a sweet-savory base flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Boosts depth and aroma.
- Red Bell Pepper (1, chopped) – Adds color and sweetness.
- Jalapeño (1, diced, optional) – For mild heat; adjust to preference.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes (15 oz) – The tomato base for the soup.
- Tomato Paste (1 tbsp) – Deepens flavor and richness.
- Black Beans (1 can, drained and rinsed) – Adds heartiness and texture.
- Corn Kernels (1 cup, frozen or canned) – For a touch of sweetness.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken (2 cups) – Adds protein and makes the soup filling.
- Chicken Broth (5 cups) – The liquid base of the soup.
- Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Provides a warm, earthy note.
- Chili Powder (1 tsp) – Adds mild spice.
- Paprika (½ tsp) – Enhances color and flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – For seasoning.
- Lime Juice (from 1 lime) – Brightens the flavor before serving.
- Fresh Cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped) – For a burst of freshness.
Optional Toppings:
Crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges.
Substitutions:
- Vegan version: Use vegetable broth and omit chicken; add more beans or tofu.
- Low-sodium: Use reduced-sodium broth and rinse beans thoroughly.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortilla chips for topping.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño, cooking 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 3: Add Broth, Chicken, Beans, and Corn
Pour in chicken broth, shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure flavors meld and soup thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add Fresh Lime and Cilantro
Before serving, stir in lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
4. Tips and Variations
- Homemade Tortilla Strips: Cut corn tortillas into strips, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until crispy.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Thicker Soup: Simmer uncovered for longer or add more tomato paste.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and add extra beans or quinoa.
- Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients except lime and cilantro; cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Add lime and cilantro before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Cornbread, cheese quesadillas, or a simple green salad.
- Toppings: Tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, jalapeño slices.
- Drinks: Pair with margaritas, limeade, or iced tea.
- Occasions: Great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cold-weather comfort.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop or in microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens.
7. Recipe Notes
- Add lime juice at the end for a bright, fresh finish.
- Adjust spice level by controlling jalapeño or chili powder.
- For a smoky flavor, add a dash of chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
- Soup gets even better the next day as flavors meld.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
| Cholesterol | 65 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mexican / Tex-Mex
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño 5–6 minutes; add garlic 1 minute.
- Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings; cook 2–3 minutes.
- Add broth, chicken, beans, and corn. Bring to boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer 20–25 minutes.
- Stir in lime juice and cilantro before serving.
- Serve with tortilla strips and desired toppings.
Notes
- Adjust spice level to taste.
- For extra thickness, simmer longer or add more tomato paste.
- Can be made ahead; flavors improve overnight.
🏷️ Diet Tags:
- High-Protein
- Gluten-Free Option
- Dairy-Free
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Rich in lean protein from chicken.
- High in fiber from beans and vegetables.
- Naturally gluten-free and packed with vitamins.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours; add lime juice and cilantro at the end.
2. What type of chicken should I use?
Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeño, chipotle peppers in adobo, or a pinch of cayenne.
4. Can I freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Absolutely, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just omit tortilla strips until serving.
5. What toppings go best with this soup?
Tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, lime, and sour cream add texture and richness.
11. Final Thoughts
Chicken Tortilla Soup is bold, bright, and satisfying — a true celebration of flavor and texture. Every bite offers the perfect balance of spice, tang, and warmth, making it an easy favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Try this recipe once, and it’s sure to become part of your comfort food rotation. Don’t forget to top it with crispy tortilla strips and a squeeze of lime — that’s where the magic happens!