Chicken tortilla soup is a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying dish that has its roots in Mexican cuisine. This soup is a delightful combination of shredded chicken, tomatoes, broth, spices, and crispy tortilla strips. Whether you prefer a traditional version, a creamy twist, or a healthy alternative, there’s a chicken tortilla soup recipe to suit every palate.
In this guide, we’ll explore different variations of chicken tortilla soup, step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for enhancing flavor, and serving suggestions. By the end of this article, you’ll have everything you need to make the perfect bowl of chicken tortilla soup!
What is Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Chicken tortilla soup is a flavorful broth-based soup that is loaded with shredded chicken, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. It is often garnished with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and fresh cilantro. The dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine and has been adapted into many different styles, from spicy to creamy.
The key to a great chicken tortilla soup is the balance of flavors: the heat from chilies, the richness of the broth, and the crunch of the tortilla strips. Whether you’re cooking it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or using an Instant Pot, this soup is easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal.
Traditional Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Let’s start with the classic version of chicken tortilla soup. This recipe is simple, flavorful, and captures the essence of traditional Mexican cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 6 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
- Vegetable oil for frying (optional)
- Toppings: avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. - Add the Spices
Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant. - Simmer the Soup
Add the diced tomatoes, tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes. - Add Chicken, Beans, and Corn
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, black beans, and corn. Let simmer for another 10 minutes. - Finish with Lime and Cilantro
Add the lime juice and chopped cilantro, stirring to combine. Adjust seasoning as needed. - Prepare the Tortilla Strips
In a separate pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the tortilla strips until crispy, then drain on a paper towel. - Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, and any other desired toppings.
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
If you love a richer, creamier version of this classic soup, try this creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe. It has the same bold flavors but with a velvety texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup corn
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Tortilla strips, for topping
- Avocado, sour cream, and jalapeños for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. - Add Spices and Tomatoes
Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Add the diced tomatoes, tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. - Stir in Chicken, Beans, and Corn
Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Simmer for another 10 minutes. - Make it Creamy
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the soup is creamy. - Finish with Lime and Cilantro
Add fresh lime juice and cilantro for a bright, fresh flavor. - Serve with Toppings
Top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, sour cream, and jalapeños.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
For a hands-off approach, the slow cooker is a fantastic way to make chicken tortilla soup with deep flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup corn
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Tortilla strips and toppings
Instructions:
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Place all ingredients (except lime juice, cilantro, and toppings) into the slow cooker. - Cook on Low or High
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. - Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup. - Finish with Lime and Cilantro
Stir in lime juice and cilantro. - Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with tortilla strips and toppings of choice.
Tips for the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds great flavor.
- Roast the Tomatoes: Roasting fresh tomatoes before blending gives a richer taste.
- Add a Smoky Kick: A little chipotle pepper in adobo sauce adds deep smoky heat.
- Balance the Acidity: Lime juice helps brighten the flavors.
- Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
Final Thoughts
Chicken tortilla soup is a versatile and delicious dish that can be made in many ways, from traditional to creamy and even slow-cooked. Whether you want a quick stovetop recipe or a slow cooker meal, this soup is sure to impress. Try one of these recipes and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of chicken tortilla soup!
