Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup to wrap you in a cozy hug! It’s one of those dishes that just feels like home, you know? This soup is a family favorite around my house, especially when the weather turns chilly. I remember one rainy evening, I whipped up a batch, and as it simmered away, the whole kitchen filled with the most amazing aromas. My kids couldn’t wait to dig in! It’s such a versatile dish, bursting with flavor and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which is a major win in my book. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your rotation for those nights when comfort food is a must!

Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Chicken Tortilla Soup absolutely delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience!)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips for garnish (these add a nice crunch!)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (don’t skip this, it brightens everything up!)

With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be well on your way to whipping up a comforting and hearty soup that everyone will love!

How to Prepare Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making Chicken Tortilla Soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful soup in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This is where the magic begins!
Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until they’re softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Wow, can you smell that?
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder. Mix everything together so those flavors can mingle!
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is when all those delicious flavors really come alive.
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. A little tweak here can make all the difference!
Finally, serve the soup hot, garnished with crunchy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro. Trust me, it looks as good as it tastes!

And there you have it! A steaming bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup that’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at dinner. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Tortilla Soup

Now, let’s talk about the nutrition in this comforting bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup! Each serving is packed with goodness, making it not only tasty but also a great choice for a healthy meal. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, and they can vary based on what you use or how you customize your soup. But it’s safe to say you’re getting a hearty, nutrient-rich meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick and easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavor-packed with a delightful mix of spices and fresh ingredients.
Hearty and satisfying, making it a great comfort food option.
Healthy and nutritious, loaded with protein and fiber!
Versatile for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
A family favorite that even the kids will love, making dinner a breeze.
Great for customizing with your favorite toppings, so everyone can have it their way!

Tips for Success with Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ready to take your Chicken Tortilla Soup to the next level? I’ve got some fantastic tips that’ll ensure you get the most out of this delicious recipe!

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and juicy option, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It cuts down on prep time and adds incredible flavor!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, opt for fresh veggies. They add a vibrant taste and texture that really elevates the soup!
Customize Your Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the cumin and chili powder to your taste. If you like it spicier, toss in some jalapeños or cayenne pepper!
Add Toppings: Go wild with toppings! Avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice can really enhance the flavors and make each bowl feel special.
Simmer Longer: If you have the time, let the soup simmer a bit longer. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully!
Perfect for Freezing: Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers! It’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you need a quick meal.

With these tips, you’re on your way to making the best Chicken Tortilla Soup ever! Enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite!

Variations of Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you’re anything like me, you love to mix things up in the kitchen! Chicken Tortilla Soup is so versatile, and I’m excited to share some fun variations that can take this dish to a whole new level. Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:

Vegetable Boost: Add in some diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for an extra dose of veggies. They’ll add color and nutrition while keeping that hearty texture!
Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. You can also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky heat.
Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shredded beef or even turkey! You could also go meatless by adding more beans or lentils, making it a fantastic vegetarian option.
Delicious Broth Variations: For a twist on flavor, try using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, or add a splash of lime juice for a zesty brightness. A dash of coconut milk can also give it a creamy texture!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or even a bit of fresh basil can elevate the flavor profile of your soup. Just toss them in towards the end of cooking for that fresh burst!
Creative Toppings: Don’t just stick to the usual tortilla strips! Try adding crumbled queso fresco, diced avocado, or even a dollop of guacamole on top for a creamy finish.

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get inventive and make this Chicken Tortilla Soup your own. With every twist, you’ll discover new flavors and combinations that you love. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers of Chicken Tortilla Soup are a lifesaver for those busy days when you need a quick meal! Storing and reheating it properly will ensure you keep all that delicious flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:

First, let the soup cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your soup watery. Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container. I love using glass containers because they don’t retain odors and are microwave-friendly!

You can store the soup in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, go ahead and freeze it! Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for about 2–3 months.

When it’s time to reheat, there are a couple of ways to do it. If you’re using the microwave, pour a serving into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot. Just be careful—it can splatter!

If you prefer the stovetop, pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This method is great because it helps the flavors meld again as it heats up.

And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips to enjoy your Chicken Tortilla Soup whenever the craving strikes. Trust me, it’s just as good the second time around!

FAQ About Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you’ve got questions about making Chicken Tortilla Soup, I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my helpful tips:

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily swap in shredded beef, turkey, or even go meatless with more beans or lentils. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

What if I don’t have black beans?
No worries! You can use any beans you have on hand, like pinto beans or kidney beans. They’ll still add that delicious creaminess to the soup.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra veggies or even some tofu for protein.

What toppings do you recommend?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love adding avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh lime juice. You could even throw in some jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, definitely! Chicken Tortilla Soup actually tastes even better the next day after all those flavors have had time to meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

With these FAQs in mind, you’re all set to make your Chicken Tortilla Soup even more delicious. Happy cooking and enjoy every spoonful!

Chicken Tortilla Soup: 7 Heartwarming Comforting Recipes

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful and hearty chicken tortilla soup.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips and cilantro.

Notes

You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Add avocado or cheese for extra flavor.
This soup freezes well for future meals.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 300
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Chicken Tortilla Soup, tortilla soup, chicken soup

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