When it comes to warm and comforting dishes, few can compare to the heartwarming goodness of a soup. Enter the Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, a delightful and satisfying meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right into your home. This dish is a fantastic choice for any time of year, providing a unique balance of hearty ingredients immersed in a flavorful broth. Packed with chicken, beans, and spices, it’s not only delicious but also gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

What makes this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup stand out is its simplicity of preparation and the use of common ingredients that you might already have stocked in your kitchen. With just a few steps, you can whip up a pot of this soup that delights the palate and warms the soul. The crispy tortillas served as a garnish not only add texture but also a scrumptious crunch, elevating the entire experience. Whether you are cooking for family or hosting friends, this soup is bound to impress.

Furthermore, the beautifully balanced spices, combined with fresh cilantro and lime juice, elevate the soup, making it vibrant and fresh. It’s a one-pot wonder that promises to make your dinner enjoyable while saving on cleanup time. So, why not gather your ingredients and embark on this culinary adventure? Your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Hearty & Satisfying: This soup is loaded with protein-rich chicken and fiber-packed beans, ensuring you’ll feel full and satisfied.
Flavorful & Zesty: The blend of spices and the freshness of lime and cilantro adds depth and invigorating flavors.
Quick to Prepare: With a total prep and cook time of just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and toppings to cater to your family’s preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and can be made in advance, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process of this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen for a smooth experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients; having everything at hand reduces cooking time and minimizes stress. Make sure to wash and chop the vegetables as indicated in the recipe to ensure even cooking.

For cooking, a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot is essential for making this soup because it distributes heat evenly and allows for proper simmering. Also, preheating your oven for the tortilla strips is essential to achieve that perfect crispiness. Ensure you have a baking tray lined with foil handy for easy cleanup after you bake the tortilla strips.

Ingredients

8 small corn tortillas, sliced into 6 mm wide strips
15 ml olive oil (for tortilla strips)
5 g kosher salt (for tortilla strips)
30 ml olive oil (for soup base)
2 jalapenos, finely diced
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
1 green bell pepper, finely diced
10 g minced garlic
950 ml chicken broth
800 g crushed tomatoes
2 cans (425 g each) black beans, drained and rinsed
300 g cooked chicken breast, cut into chunks
8 g chili powder
15 ml lime juice
4 g ground cumin
10 g salt
2 g ground black pepper
2 g smoked paprika
0.5 g cayenne pepper
10 g fresh cilantro, finely minced

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Tortilla Strips

Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C. While it’s warming up, slice your corn tortillas into strips about 6 mm wide. In a mixing bowl, toss these strips with 15 ml of olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt, ensuring they are well coated. Arrange the tortilla strips on a lined baking tray in a single layer and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Keep a close eye on them and stir halfway through to ensure they turn golden and crispy without burning.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

As the tortilla strips are baking, heat 30 ml of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and finely diced jalapenos. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. This step is crucial as it forms the flavor base of your soup. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing it to release its rich flavor without burning.

Step 3: Combine the Soup Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in 950 ml of chicken broth, followed by the crushed tomatoes and thoroughly rinsed black beans. Toss in the chunks of cooked chicken, and season the mixture with chili powder, lime juice, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Finish with Cilantro

Just before serving, stir in the finely minced cilantro and allow it to boil for an additional minute. This final step enhances the soup with a fresh herbal note. Once done, remove the pot from the heat.

Variations

Protein: For a different protein element, consider using turkey or tofu as a substitute for chicken.
Vegetables: You can add more vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
Spices: Adjust the spices by adding more chili powder or, if you prefer a milder soup, use less cayenne pepper.

Cooking Notes

This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent meal prep option.
If you find the soup too thick after refrigeration, simply add a bit of water or chicken broth when reheating to return its original consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup in bowls topped with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and slices of avocado.
Pair it with a side of fresh lime wedges to enhance the flavor even further.

Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapenos as a garnish when serving.
Experiment with additional toppings, such as radishes, green onions, or diced red onions for varied flavors and colors.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350
Protein: 22 g
Sodium: 800 mg

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.

How can I make it vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave out the tortilla strips when freezing; add them fresh when serving.

What other toppings can I use?

Toppings are a great way to customize your soup. Consider adding shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or sliced radishes for extra flavor.

Conclusion

In summary, the Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a nourishing dish that beautifully blends flavors and textures. Its heartiness makes it suitable for a nourishing family meal, while its quick preparation ensures it can fit into any busy weeknight routine. With its simple ingredients, vibrant colors, and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. We invite you to try this recipe, share your experiences, and enjoy the delightful journey of flavors. Happy cooking!