Chicken Tortilla Soup

Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting yet vibrant soup, this Chicken Tortilla Soup checks all the boxes. Packed with tender shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and a tomato-lime broth spiced with cumin, chili powder, and paprika, this dish is a fiesta in a bowl. Crispy tortilla strips and fresh toppings bring texture and freshness, making every bite both hearty and exciting.

This recipe is inspired by classic Mexican flavors and designed to be simple enough for weeknight dinners, yet rich and flavorful enough to impress family and friends. With the ease of using rotisserie chicken and pantry staples like canned beans and corn, you can have this soup on the table in under an hour.

Whether served as a starter for a Mexican-themed dinner, a weeknight family meal, or a cozy lunch, this chicken tortilla soup is full of flavor, satisfying, and naturally crowd-pleasing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in 45 minutes with minimal prep.
• Packed with protein and fiber: Chicken, beans, and corn make it filling and nutritious.
• Bold Mexican flavor: Spices and lime juice give it an authentic, bright taste.
• Customizable toppings: Create your perfect bowl with avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup for busy weeknights.
• Kid-friendly and versatile: Adjust spice levels for the whole family.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people. Ingredients are grouped for clarity.

Main Soup Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great!)
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Optional Toppings

• Crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
• Sliced avocado
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Extra cilantro
• Lime wedges

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Ladle for serving
• Bowls for topping individual servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced, flavorful soup.

1. Sauté Aromatics and Spices

• Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Build the Soup Base

• Add 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup corn kernels, and 4 cups chicken broth.
• Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.

3. Add Chicken

• Stir in 2 cups shredded cooked chicken. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes so the flavors meld.

4. Finish with Lime and Cilantro

• Stir in juice of 1 lime and ¼ cup chopped cilantro.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve with Toppings

• Ladle soup into bowls.
• Top with crispy tortilla strips, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, extra cilantro, and lime wedges as desired.

Tips & Variations

Cooking Tips

• For extra depth, sauté the spices longer with onions until fragrant.
• Use homemade chicken stock for richer flavor.
• Adjust chili powder and paprika to control spice level.

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Omit chicken and add extra beans or cooked lentils.
• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy version: Stir shredded cheese into the hot soup before serving.
• Crunchy topping: Toast tortilla strips in the oven for extra crispiness.

Flavor Profile & Texture

This soup combines savory, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors. The cumin and chili powder add warmth, paprika contributes mild smokiness, and lime juice brightens the broth. Sweet corn and hearty black beans add texture, while tender chicken makes the soup satisfying. Toppings provide a contrast: creamy avocado, melty cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips complete the experience.

Nutritional Overview

Approximate nutrition per serving (1 bowl, without toppings):

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sodium: 700 mg (varies with broth)

Dietary notes: Naturally gluten-free if using gluten-free tortillas for topping. Can be made dairy-free by omitting cheese and sour cream.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep vegetables ahead of time for faster cooking.
• Shred chicken in advance and store in the fridge until ready to use.
• Soup stores well: Refrigerate in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup (without toppings) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, dice raw chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook in the broth for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.

Q2: Can I make this soup spicier?
Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder according to your taste.

Q3: Can I use canned corn?
Yes, canned or frozen corn works perfectly. Drain canned corn before adding.

Q4: How can I make the soup thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce liquid or add a small slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water.

Q5: Can I meal prep this soup for the week?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Add fresh toppings just before serving.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep	15 minutes
Cook	30 minutes
Total	45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in bowls with toppings on the side for customizable bowls.
• Pair with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
• Ideal as a hearty lunch or family dinner.

Ingredient Spotlight

Black Beans

High in fiber and protein, black beans are a filling addition that also absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully.

Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice brightens the soup and balances the savory and spicy elements. Always add it at the end to preserve its freshness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Toast spices briefly with onions to enhance their flavor.
• Avoid overcooking the corn to maintain a sweet, firm bite.
• Use a wooden spoon to stir gently, keeping chicken pieces intact.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze without toppings for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly.

Expanded Conclusion

This Chicken Tortilla Soup is a vibrant, comforting, and versatile meal that combines hearty protein, fiber-rich beans, sweet corn, and warm spices in a lively tomato-lime broth. Topped with creamy avocado, crispy tortilla strips, and a sprinkle of cheese or sour cream, it’s a bowl that hits all the senses: savory, fresh, and satisfying.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or when you need a comforting meal on a cold day, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep, bold flavors, and endless topping options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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