Chicken Tortilla Soup
The first time I made Chicken Tortilla Soup, it was a chilly winter evening, and the warmth of the kitchen matched the comfort of the soup. I had just returned from a long day, and the thought of a hearty, flavorful soup sent a wave of relief over me. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my home, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. This dish has a way of making you feel at ease, no matter how cold it is outside. With each spoonful, the vibrant flavors and comforting textures take me back to sunny days spent enjoying time with family over a shared meal. As I ladled the rich broth into each bowl, I knew this would become a staple in our home, perfect for snuggling up on the couch and sharing laughs with loved ones.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
15 mins
45 mins
Medium
380 kcal
28 g
Gluten-Free
18 g
Saucepan, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup
It’s a One-Pot Wonder
One of the reasons I adore Chicken Tortilla Soup is its simplicity. Everything comes together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. You can enjoy the comforting flavors without the hassle of multiple pans and dishes to wash afterward.
Customizable to Your Taste
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper or even swapping out the cheese for a spicier variety. Whether you prefer it mild or fiery, it’s all about what makes your taste buds dance.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Another reason to love this soup is how well it stores. I often make a big batch on the weekends, and it lasts for a few days in the fridge. This means quick, satisfying lunches for myself or easy dinners when I’m too busy to cook.
Great for Sharing
There’s something special about sharing a bowl of soup with friends or family. The communal aspect of dipping tortilla strips into the soup while chatting creates a warm atmosphere that feels inviting. It’s perfect for gatherings or even just a weekday dinner with loved ones.
A Nourishing Choice
With wholesome ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and cheese, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s a great way to incorporate more proteins and nutrients into your meals, making it a balanced option for any night of the week.
What Goes Into Chicken Tortilla Soup
The ingredients in Chicken Tortilla Soup are simple yet flavorful. Each component plays a pivotal role, creating a harmonious blend that warms the soul. The key players include aromatic staples like onion and garlic, alongside tender chicken and creamy cheddar cheese. Together, they create a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: This provides the base for sautéing your vegetables, adding richness to the soup.
- ¼ cup minced white onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that forms the foundation of the soup’s deliciousness.
- ¼ cup minced Anaheim pepper: Contributes mild heat and a fresh taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Essential for giving the soup its aromatic depth and richness.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps to thicken the soup, giving it a comforting, creamy consistency.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing a savory and flavorful base.
- 1 cooked skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces: Adds protein and heartiness, making the soup filling.
- 1 cooked skinless, boneless chicken thigh, cut into bite-size pieces: Enhances the flavor and moisture content of the soup.
- 8 ounces mild cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully into the soup, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- 36-inch corn tortillas, minced: Provides a unique texture and flavor boost, forming part of the soup’s base.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Brightens the soup with acidity, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- ¼ cup canned diced tomatoes: Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the soup.
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Adds mild heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon Mexican oregano: Contributes a fragrant, herbal note that rounds out the taste.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the soup taste complete.
- Tortilla strips, optional, for garnish: Adds a crunchy texture, making each bite exciting.
How to Prepare Chicken Tortilla Soup
Making Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful journey filled with aromatic ingredients and vibrant flavors. Follow these simple steps to create a warming bowl of goodness. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to whip up this delicious soup!
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low heat. You’ll want to let it warm up without getting too hot, as we want to gently sauté the vegetables to develop their flavors. Once it’s shimmering, add in the minced onion, minced Anaheim pepper, and minced garlic. Allow these to cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes. As they cook, you’ll notice the onion starting to turn translucent, which is a good sign that the flavors are melding beautifully.
- Next, whisk the cornstarch into the chicken broth until smooth. This step is vital for ensuring your soup has that creamy consistency we all love. Once combined, pour this broth mixture into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the cooked chicken breast, cooked chicken thigh, shredded cheddar cheese, minced tortillas, lime juice, diced tomatoes, ground cumin, ground cayenne pepper, Mexican oregano, and salt. The mixture should start to bubble slightly; this is when the magic happens!
- Increase the heat to medium, stirring constantly to help the cheese melt into the soup. As it heats up, you’ll notice the cheese becoming beautifully creamy, which is exactly what we want. When the soup begins to bubble, reduce the heat back to medium-low. This simmering stage will allow all the flavors to marry together beautifully. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. It’s during this time that your kitchen will be filled with the most inviting aromas.
- Once the soup has simmered and you’ve ensured all the ingredients are well combined, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor perfectly. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup, sharing with family or friends for a cozy meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, in a covered container, for up to 4 days. This means you can enjoy the comforting flavors of this soup even on busy weeknights!
Things Worth Knowing
- Choosing the right chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of chicken breast and thigh. The breast will offer lean protein, while the thigh adds moisture and richness.
- Adjusting spice levels: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or leave it out altogether. You can always add hot sauce when serving if desired.
- Thickening the soup: If your soup is too thin, mix a little more cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup as it simmers.
- Adding more veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Making it vegetarian: You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by substituting the chicken with beans or lentils and using vegetable broth.
Expert Tips about Chicken Tortilla Soup
When it comes to perfecting your Chicken Tortilla Soup, there are a few expert tips that can elevate your dish even further. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, these pointers will help you create the most delicious soup!
- Storage: To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the soup, remember to cool it completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It should last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
- Pairing: This soup pairs beautifully with fresh cornbread, a side salad, or crispy tortilla chips for dipping. It makes a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Garnishing: Consider garnishing your soup with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Experimenting: Don’t hesitate to play around with spices and toppings. Adding jalapeños or other peppers can give it a unique twist.
Serving This Chicken Tortilla Soup
When it comes to serving Chicken Tortilla Soup, the options are delightful and varied. Here are some ideas to make your mealtime special:
- Perfect for lunch or dinner: This soup is an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Garnish extravaganza: Offer various toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips to allow everyone to customize their bowls.
- Occasion-friendly: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this soup is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It’s especially comforting during colder months and holiday gatherings.
- Storing leftovers: Pack any leftovers in airtight containers, and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can always reheat them on the stovetop for a quick meal.
- Seasonal pairings: In the winter months, serve Chicken Tortilla Soup with a side of warm, cheesy quesadillas. During summer, opt for a light salad to complement the dish.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bowl. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a wonderful option for families, gatherings, or even a quiet night at home. I encourage you to try making this soup and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a favorite, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do!
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced onion, minced Anaheim pepper, and minced garlic and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes, or until the minced onion begins to turn translucent.
- Whisk the cornstarch into the chicken broth, then add the broth mixture to the pot, along with the cooked skinless, boneless chicken breast, cooked skinless, boneless chicken thigh, shredded mild cheddar cheese, minced corn tortillas, lime juice, diced tomatoes, ground cumin, ground cayenne pepper, Mexican oregano, and salt.
- Increase the heat to medium and stir constantly to help the cheese melt. When the soup begins to bubble, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve the soup topped with Tortilla strips and extra shredded cheese. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, in a covered container, for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Tip 1: To freeze this soup, allow it to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then reheat over low heat on the stove, or in the microwave.
- Tip 2: Poblano pepper can be substituted for Anaheim.
- Tip 3: If you cannot find Mexican oregano, you can substitute regular.
- Tip 4: You can use half cheddar cheese and half Monterey Jack for a varied flavor.
- Tip 5: This soup is an excellent candidate for the slow cooker! Complete step 1, then transfer all of the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
