Looking for a mouthwatering chicken tortilla soup recipe that is both easy to make and packed with flavors? You’ve come to the right place! Our simple yet delicious chicken tortilla soup recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving a comforting, homemade meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this satisfying dish that can be prepared in just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients needed for chicken tortilla soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-step instructions for making chicken tortilla soup
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until onions are translucent.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and cumin. Place them in the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Shred the chicken into small pieces using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and black beans. Stir well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tortillas into thin strips and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the tortilla strips until they are crispy and golden brown, usually around 10 minutes.
- Once the soup is ready, serve it hot and garnish with shredded cheese, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Top each bowl of soup with a handful of crispy tortilla strips.
- Enjoy your homemade chicken tortilla soup!
Tips for enhancing the flavor of chicken tortilla soup
- 1. Use homemade chicken broth: Making your own chicken broth adds a depth of flavor that store-bought versions can’t match. Simmer chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs in water for a few hours to create a rich and flavorful broth.
- 2. Roast the vegetables: Before adding them to the soup, roast the onions, peppers, and tomatoes in the oven. This will intensify their flavors and give the soup a smoky undertone.
- 3. Season generously: Don’t be shy with the spices! Add a variety of spices like cumin, chili powder, oregano, and paprika to give your soup a bold and robust taste.
- 4. Add a squeeze of lime: Just before serving, squeeze some fresh lime juice into the soup. The acidity will brighten up the flavors and balance the richness of the broth.
- 5. Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over each bowl of soup. The fresh herbs will add a burst of freshness and elevate the overall taste.
- 6. Top it with crunchy tortilla strips: Fry or bake corn tortilla strips until crispy and use them as a garnish for your soup. The added crunch will provide a delightful texture contrast.
- 7. Experiment with toppings: Customize your soup by adding toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced jalapenos. These extras will enhance the flavor profile and make each bowl unique.
Serving suggestions and garnishes for chicken tortilla soup
Chicken tortilla soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions and garnishes to enhance the flavor and presentation of your soup:
- Toppings: Sprinkle some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, on top of the soup. This will add a creamy and savory element to your dish.
- Tortilla Strips: Crispy tortilla strips can be served on the side or placed on top of the soup. They provide a satisfying crunch and complement the flavors of the soup.
- Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds a creamy and buttery texture to the soup. It also adds a refreshing taste that balances the spices in the dish.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top of the soup can help balance the heat and add a creamy richness to each bite.
- Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro leaves sprinkled over the soup provide a vibrant and herbaceous flavor. It adds freshness and complements the other ingredients.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for people to squeeze over their soup. The acidity of the lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a tangy element.
- Jalapenos: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, thinly sliced jalapenos can be used as a garnish. They add heat and a burst of flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these garnishes and serving suggestions to create your own unique and delicious chicken tortilla soup experience. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Overall, this easy and delicious chicken tortilla soup recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and comforting meal. With its flavorful broth, tender chicken, and a variety of toppings, it’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a bowl of this hearty soup today!