Chicken Tortilla Soup

Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of Chicken Tortilla Soup wafting through your kitchen—a comforting blend of spices and rich broth.

This Mexican classic is both simple to prepare and utterly satisfying, making it a beloved staple for cozy dinners.

As the ingredients meld together, the soup transforms into a flavorful masterpiece with each simmering minute.

Let’s bring this delightful dish to life and enjoy its hearty embrace.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 large pot
• 1 cutting board
• 1 chef’s knife
• 1 measuring cup
• 1 wooden spoon
• 1 ladle

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Chicken Tortilla Soup, you can follow this timeline:

1. Preparation Readthrough (5 minutes)
   • Begin by reading through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
2. Prep Work (15 minutes)
   • Start by gathering all ingredients and equipment listed in the recipe.
   • Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
   • Measure out the spices: cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
   • Open and drain/rinse the black beans and corn.
   • Shred the cooked chicken.
   • Chop the cilantro and dice the avocado.
   • Crush the tortilla chips and measure out the shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Cooking (30 minutes)
   • 0-5 minutes: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent.
   • 5-6 minutes: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for 1 minute to release their flavors.
   • 6-8 minutes: Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • 8-13 minutes: Once simmering, add the black beans, corn, and shredded chicken.
   • 13-28 minutes: Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
   • 28-30 minutes: Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Resting (5 minutes)
   • Allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes to enhance its flavors before serving.
5. Serving
   • Serve the soup hot, garnishing with crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Recipe Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add onion and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent.

Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper for 1 minute.

Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bring to a simmer.

Stir in black beans, corn, and cooked chicken.

Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Stir in cilantro and lime juice, season with salt and pepper.

Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with tortilla chips, avocado, and cheese.

Serving Tips

• Sour Cream: Add a dollop on top for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who like it hot, add a few slices for an extra spicy kick.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty splash of citrus.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle on top for a fresh and crunchy texture.
• Warm Cornbread: Pair with a side of warm cornbread to complement the flavors and provide a hearty accompaniment.

Storage

To store Chicken Tortilla Soup, let it cool completely.

Then transfer to airtight containers.

Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing

To freeze chicken tortilla soup, cool it completely.

Transfer to airtight containers, and label with the date.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat chicken tortilla soup, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Alternatively, microwave on medium power, covered, to retain moisture.

Stir halfway through.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Mexican cuisine to your table.

With its combination of spices, vegetables, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you enjoy it as a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Experiment with the spice level and toppings to make it your own, and enjoy the warmth and richness of this delicious soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

You can make this soup vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth and replacing shredded chicken with 2 cups of your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Sauté these with onions for added flavor and texture.

What Can I Substitute for Cilantro?

You can substitute cilantro with parsley or basil in equal amounts, maintaining the recipe’s freshness. Measure precisely, using 1/4 cup chopped substitute. Incorporate at the same stage, ensuring flavors blend thoroughly. Adjust seasoning to taste.

How Can I Make the Soup Less Spicy?

To reduce spiciness, halve the cayenne pepper and chili powder. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance flavors. Use mild diced tomatoes and omit any extra hot ingredients like jalapeños. Adjust salt to enhance overall taste.

Can I Use a Slow Cooker for This Recipe?

You can use a slow cooker. Sauté onion and garlic first, then transfer all ingredients except toppings to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Don’t forget to garnish!

What Wine Pairs Well With Chicken Tortilla Soup?

You’ll want a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines balance the soup’s spices. Serve at 45°F for ideal taste. Avoid oak-aged varieties; they overpower the dish’s subtle flavors. Enjoy your pairing!