Cozy Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup
Recipe Introduction
Ever crave something warm, comforting, and bursting with flavour? Honestly, sometimes I just want a hug in a bowl. That’s where this Chicken Tortilla Soup comes in.
It’s my go-to for a chilly evening, and I reckon it will be yours too.
Quick Hook
Do you fancy a Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup that's quick to make? Then, this recipe is just for you. It's packed with flavour and super satisfying, with the right amount of spice and a tangy hint of lime.
Brief Overview
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a classic dish with Mexican roots. It's typically seen as an Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe and is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
This recipe makes about 6-8 servings and is ready in under an hour.
Main Benefits
This soup is relatively healthy. It's loaded with protein from the chicken and fibre from the beans and corn. Honestly, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and makes the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup .
It's perfect for a casual gathering or a cosy night in.
What Makes this Soup Special?
What sets this recipe apart? It’s the balance of smoky spices with fresh, bright toppings. Plus, the homemade tortilla strips really elevate it. Seriously, don't skip those!
Let's talk ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!
Okay, let's talk ingredients. Don't worry, this Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe isn’t rocket science. If I can do it, trust me, you can too.
I want to share with you what will make the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup you have ever tasted!
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Soup
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml). This is our starting point. Nothing fancy, just regular olive oil.
- Yellow onion: 1 large, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups).
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (about 2 tsp). Fresh is best, but the jarred stuff works in a pinch.
- Red bell pepper: 1 , chopped (about 1 cup). Adds a touch of sweetness.
- Jalapeño: 1 , seeded and minced (optional) (about 1 tbsp). Only if you're feeling brave. For a Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup , leave some seeds in!
- Chili powder: 1 tsp (5 ml).
- Cumin: 1 tsp (5 ml). The soul of Mexican flavor.
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml). Adds a lovely smokiness.
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp (optional) (1.25 ml). Again, for the spice lovers!
- Chicken broth: 6 cups , low sodium (1.4 L). Go for good quality broth; it makes a difference.
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 oz) can (794 g).
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz) can, rinsed and drained (425 g).
- Corn: 1 (15 oz) can, drained (425 g).
- Cooked chicken: 1 1/2 lbs , shredded (about 3 cups) (680 g). A rotisserie chicken from the store is a total lifesaver here.
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup , chopped (optional) (60 ml).
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Don't be shy.
For the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup results, I normally use Chicken Thighs and Shred them. I find they keep the Soup nice and moist!
Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce
Alright, listen up! The spice combo is crucial. Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are your best friends here. Don't skip them! If you're missing one, use a little extra of the others.
This is a great opportunity to make a Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup . A touch of lime juice at the end can make the Chicken Tortilla Soup with Lime experience really brighten up the flavors.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen to make this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe . A large pot or Dutch oven is essential.
A cutting board and a sharp knife are must haves too. A baking sheet for those crispy tortilla strips, because they are amazing in this Chicken Tortillas Soups Recipe .
If you don't have a baking sheet, a frying pan can also do the trick! You can also use a frying pan for frying the tortillas strips too!
Honestly, making this Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup is super easy. Don't sweat the small stuff. Just have fun and enjoy the process! Before you know it, you will be making the Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup for all your friends and family!
Cooking Method
Prep Steps for Your Best Chicken Tortilla Soup
Okay, mate, first things first: get your mise en place sorted. That's chef speak for "everything in its place." Chop your onion, mince that garlic (no vampire breath, please!), and dice the bell pepper.
Honestly, this makes cooking so much smoother. It's like having a pint waiting for you after a long day.
Time saving tip? Buy pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Honestly, it’s a game changer. Shred that bad boy up, and boom, you’re winning. And remember, safety first! Watch those fingers when chopping.
We don't want any kitchen mishaps, alright?
step-by-step Process for Chicken Tortillas Soups Recipe
Right then, let's get down to it. This is how to make a cracking bowl of Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup .
- Sauté the onion in olive oil until soft. About 5 minutes should do it.
- Chuck in the garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if you're feeling spicy). Cook for 3 minutes .
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Give it 1 minute . That's how you bloom the spices!
- Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 15 minutes , letting all those flavors get to know each other.
- Add the black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Heat through for 5 minutes . Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake the tortilla strips at 375° F ( 190° C) for 8- 10 minutes , until golden and crispy. Watch them like a hawk!
- Ladle into bowls and go to town with toppings.
Pro Tips for Your Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Want to take your Chicken Tortilla Soup with Lime to the next level? Blooming the spices properly makes a huge difference. Don't skip that step! It unlocks so much flavour.
A common mistake is overcooking the chicken. It ends up dry and sad. Nobody wants sad chicken. And if you want to save time, you can totally make the soup base a day ahead.
Just leave out the chicken and toppings until serving time.
I reckon this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is a winner, even if I do say so myself. I think it might be the Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup .
Give it a go, and let me know what you think, yeah? Enjoy your Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup !
Recipe Notes: Making the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup
Alright, you've got the recipe for this cracking Chicken Tortilla Soup , but let's chat about making it truly yours .
Honestly, the beauty of soup is its flexibility. Think of this as a guide, not a gospel. You know?
Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key!
Listen up, we eat with our eyes first. When plating, I like to ladle the Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup into a rustic bowl.
A swirl of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and those crispy tortilla strips on top? Absolute chef's kiss! For a dinner party, set out all the toppings in separate bowls.
Let everyone customise their own Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup . On the side? How about some homemade guacamole and a stack of warm tortillas? Or even a simple lime infused water.
Fancy, right?
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Right, so you've made a big batch of this Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup . Now what? Leftovers will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Seriously, fridge life is the best. Want to freeze it? No problem! Let the soup cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer safe bags or containers.
It'll last for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, gently reheat on the stovetop.
Don't let it boil! You can also use the microwave, but I find the stovetop gives better results. Pro tip: Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating if it seems a bit thick .
Variations: Make it Your Own!
Want a Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup ? Stir in half a cup of cream cheese, sour cream, or even cashew cream after cooking.
For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for black beans or sweet potatoes. You can then call it tortilla soup! Seasonal ingredient swaps? During the summer, try adding some grilled corn or zucchini.
In the winter, butternut squash would be divine. Just remember this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is a base for experiment!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bowl
Ok, let's keep this simple. This Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup is packed with protein from the chicken and beans. It's also got fibre from the veggies.
Plus, tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants. Just watch the sodium content. Use low-sodium broth and go easy on the salt.
What can I say, this dish is a winner winner Chicken Tortillas Soups Recipe !
So there you have it! I hope these notes make your Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup even better. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with it.
The Best Chicken Tortilla Soup is the one you love to make and eat! Honestly, I love my Chicken Tortilla Soup with Lime .
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicken Tortilla Soup actually healthy?
You betcha! Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a very nutritious meal. It's packed with protein from the chicken and beans, vitamins and antioxidants from the vegetables, and fiber to keep you feeling full.
Just watch the sodium content of your broth and the amount of toppings you add, like sour cream and cheese, to keep it on the lighter side. It’s all about balance, like a good cuppa tea with a biscuit enjoyable and potentially good for you!
Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chicken Tortilla Soup is a great make-ahead meal. The flavors actually meld together even more beautifully overnight. Prepare the soup according to the recipe, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Wait to add the tortilla strips and toppings until just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy - nobody wants a soggy bottom!
What's the best way to store leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup?
To properly store your leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months.
Just be aware that the texture of the vegetables might change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will still be fantastic. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through - mind the steam, it can be a bit cheeky!
My Chicken Tortilla Soup is too bland! How do I fix it?
Don't fret! A bland Chicken Tortilla Soup is easily fixable. First, taste and adjust the salt and pepper. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the flavors. For a deeper flavor, add a pinch more chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika.
If you like some heat, a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick. It's like adding the perfect amount of milk to your brew it can make all the difference!
Can I make this Chicken Tortilla Soup vegetarian or vegan?
You definitely can! For a vegetarian version, simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and ensure your toppings are vegetarian friendly. To make it vegan, use vegetable broth and replace the chicken with a plant based alternative like jackfruit or seasoned tofu.
For the toppings, swap sour cream with a plant based alternative, and consider adding some vegan cheese. It's all about making a few clever swaps, like trading your brolly for a sun hat on a summer's day!
How can I make the tortilla strips for my Chicken Tortilla Soup extra crispy?
Crispy tortilla strips are a must! Toss them well with olive oil and a pinch of salt before baking. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Keep a close eye on them while baking, as they can go from golden brown to burnt in a flash.
For extra crispiness, try frying them in a shallow pan of hot oil until golden brown, then drain on paper towels it's a bit more effort, but worth it! They'll be crunchier than a packet of Walkers.
Cozy Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-400 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Fiber | 8-10g |
