Bowl of delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup topped with tortilla strips and fresh herbs.

introduction

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, beans, corn, and spices, topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh avocado. It is a warming meal that warms you from the inside out and is perfect for any day of the week.

why make this recipe

Making Chicken Tortilla Soup at home is not only easy but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. This recipe is healthy and packed with protein from the chicken and beans. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious meal that can feed your family or be stored for later. Plus, the fresh toppings add a nice crunch and flavor that makes this soup even better!

how to make Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients:

1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 lime, juiced
tortilla strips, avocado, and cilantro for serving

Directions:

Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a soup pot until soft.
Add the chicken, black beans, corn, fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, ground cumin, and chili powder to the pot.
Simmer the mixture gently for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Stir in the lime juice and adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, avocado, and cilantro.

how to serve Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serve Chicken Tortilla Soup hot in bowls. Top each bowl with crispy tortilla strips, slices of ripe avocado, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. You can also serve it with lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus!

how to store Chicken Tortilla Soup

To store Chicken Tortilla Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in a pot or in the microwave.

tips to make Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or a diced jalapeño pepper.
Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option; just skip the cooking step for the chicken.
Add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition.
Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup.

variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using different beans, like pinto or white beans. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with mushrooms or other hearty veggies and use vegetable broth.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to reheat it before serving.

2. What can I use as toppings besides tortilla strips?
You can use crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes as toppings for added taste.

3. Is Chicken Tortilla Soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is gluten-free if you ensure that the tortilla strips you use are made without gluten ingredients. Always check the labels!