“Quick, Flavorful, and Perfectly Comforting!”
This Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious, one-pot meal loaded with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and bold spices. Topped with crispy tortilla strips, it’s the ultimate comforting soup that comes together in no time.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds sweetness and color.
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional) – For a spicy kick.
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed – For heartiness.
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – For earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – Adds warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – For depth.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
For Toppings:
- Tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lime wedges
How to Make Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
- Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, cheese, avocado, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add extra jalapeño, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for more beans or diced zucchini, and use vegetable broth.
- Homemade Tortilla Strips: Cut corn tortillas into strips, drizzle with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until crispy.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love It
- Bursting with Flavor: Bold spices and fresh toppings make every bite exciting.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat, toppings, and add-ins to suit your preferences.
- Comfort in a Bowl: Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little warmth.
This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and vibrant flavors, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Enjoy! 🍲🌮✨
