Warm & Comforting Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipes to Savor

Name: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup tortilla chips (for topping); 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro for garnish

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

August 16, 2025

Updated:

August 16, 2025

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The aroma of simmering spices fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. This chicken tortilla soup recipe is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy family dinners or unexpected rainy days.

Picture this: you’ve just come home after a long day, and the thought of cooking feels as appealing as climbing Mount Everest. But fear not! This soup comes to the rescue, bringing comfort and joy with every spoonful. It promises a flavor explosion that will have everyone fighting over the last drop.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken tortilla soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
The rich, bold flavors come together beautifully for a satisfying meal
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for any gathering
You can easily customize toppings based on your family’s preferences for added versatility

Sharing this recipe at family gatherings always prompts laughter and happy bellies, especially when my cousin tries to out-spice everyone with jalapeños.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they cook quickly and shred beautifully in the soup.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; choose one that’s firm to the touch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for flavor; don’t skimp on them!
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping it flavorful.
Corn: Frozen or canned corn adds a sweet crunch; both work well here.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are easy and packed with protein—rinse them before adding.
Tortilla Chips: These provide a delightful crunch, so don’t forget to top your soup with them!
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These spices bring warmth; adjust according to your heat preference.
Cheese (Optional): Shredded cheese is a delicious garnish that melts perfectly into the hot soup.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Start by preparing your chicken: In a pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant. Toss in minced garlic and stir until aromatic, about 1 minute.

Next comes the chicken: Add boneless chicken breasts to the pot along with diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, chicken broth, cumin, and chili powder. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Now it’s time to shred: Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the pot. Shred using two forks—it’s easier than trying to wrestle an octopus! Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with any additional seasonings you fancy.

Final touches: Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes so all those lovely flavors meld together. Taste-test like a pro chef—add salt or pepper if needed!

Serve it up: Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and top generously with crushed tortilla chips and shredded cheese. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado if you’re feeling fancy!

Enjoy your creation: Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and delicious aromas wafting from each bowl before diving in—you’ve earned it!

This delightful chicken tortilla soup recipe is sure to become your go-to dish on chilly evenings or whenever you need comfort food that warms both body and soul. Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

You Must Know

This chicken tortilla soup recipe is a cozy hug in a bowl
The aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone swoon
With a balance of flavors and textures, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a cozy gathering with friends

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor, then add the chicken and spices before pouring in broth for a depth of taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out black beans for pinto beans or add corn for extra sweetness. Customize toppings like avocado or lime to suit your palate!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove for best results, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your chicken tortilla soup, use homemade stock instead of store-bought; it enhances flavor significantly
Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be tender but not dry
For added richness, finish with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving

It was on a chilly evening that I first made this chicken tortilla soup recipe for friends. Their delighted faces as they took their first spoonfuls reminded me why I love cooking so much.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with extra beans or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

What can I use instead of tortillas?

Try using tortilla chips or even crumbled crackers as crunchy toppings instead.

How do I spice it up?

Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

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