Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

The sizzling aroma wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a warm tortilla blanket fresh out of the oven. Picture this: a hearty bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup bubbling away on your stovetop, with tender chicken mingling with vibrant veggies and crunchy tortilla strips. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that beckons you home after a long day.

Now let me take you back to the time I first made this dish. My friends were over for a game night, and let’s just say my culinary skills were still in their awkward teenage phase. But when this Chicken Tortilla Soup hit the table, it was game over! Laughter filled the room as they slurped down every last drop. Who knew soup could be the MVP of our evening?

I still chuckle remembering how my friends thought I had turned into a gourmet chef overnight! Their delighted reactions inspired me to keep making this dish whenever I wanted to impress or comfort loved ones.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically around 3-4 breasts work well; adjust according to your crowd size.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it’s perfect for sautéing.
• Onion: One medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic goodness; use at least three for maximum flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for visual appeal; they add crunch too.
• Canned Tomatoes: Look for fire-roasted diced tomatoes; they enhance the smoky flavor profile.
• Chicken Broth: Homemade is best but store-bought works fine for convenience.
• Tortilla Strips: Store-bought or homemade crispy strips are essential for crunch; don’t skip them!
• Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These spices are your secret weapons; they add depth and warmth to the soup.
• Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro brightens up flavors; sprinkle it on top just before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté Your Base Ingredients: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent—about five minutes—then toss in minced garlic until fragrant.

Add the Veggies and Spices: Stir in diced bell peppers along with cumin and chili powder. Cook until the peppers soften slightly, about another five minutes.

Introduce Your Chicken and Broth: Place boneless chicken breasts into the pot and pour in chicken broth along with fire-roasted tomatoes. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer.

Simmer Until Done!: Cover your pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through. The aroma will be irresistible!

Shred That Chicken!: Remove cooked chicken from the pot and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with any juices.

Final Touches and Serve!: Taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve hot topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro if desired.

Now you’ve got yourself a bowl of soul-soothing Chicken Tortilla Soup that would make even grandma proud. Enjoy every spoonful!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for flavor, then add chicken and broth, letting it simmer beautifully while you prepare toppings.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for beans or veggies for a vegetarian twist. You can also play with spices to suit your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it from becoming too thick.

Sometimes, my friends call me the “Tortilla Soup Whisperer” after I made it during game night, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it!

FAQ

Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better when made a day in advance as flavors develop.

What toppings are best for Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Top with avocado, cheese, tortilla strips, and lime for an explosion of flavor.

Is Chicken Tortilla Soup spicy?

You can adjust spice levels easily by adding more or fewer peppers according to your taste.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Chicken Tortilla Soup

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm and hearty dish, brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and topped with crispy tortilla strips. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add diced bell peppers, cumin, and chili powder to the pot. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the peppers soften.
3. Place chicken breasts in the pot, pour in chicken broth and fire-roasted tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
4. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken from the pot and shred using two forks.
5. Return shredded chicken to the pot, mix well, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot topped with tortilla strips and fresh cilantro.

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with black beans or chickpeas.
• Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer chili powders based on your preference.
•  Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg