Easy Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup | Ready in 30 Min
Do you crave a comforting Mexican dish but don’t have hours to cook? Our Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect solution, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a one-pot wonder with tender chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, black beans, and spices for a rich flavor.
This soup stands out because of its simple ingredients and quick cooking. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can make a soup that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Are you ready to learn how to make this Mexican classic at home?
Why This Mexican-Inspired Soup Will Become Your Favorite
Get ready to fall in love with our Mexican-inspired soup. It’s a mix of authentic flavors that takes you straight to Mexico. It’s easy to make in one pot and makes a lot, perfect for busy days and meal prep.
Rich and Authentic Flavors
The soup has a spicy broth, tender chicken, and creamy avocado. It also has corn, black beans, and juicy tomatoes. Together, they create a taste experience that’s truly authentic Mexican.
Quick One-Pot Preparation
Don’t let a busy schedule stop you from enjoying a tasty homemade meal. This one-pot soup is ready in 30 minutes. Just mix the ingredients and let the flavors blend for a quick, delicious dinner.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Mexican-inspired soup is great for meal prep. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it all week. Its flavor gets even better with time, making it a great choice for your meals.
“This soup is a game-changer! The flavors are bold, the preparation is effortless, and the meal prep aspect makes it a true lifesaver. It’s become a staple in my household.”
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup
Making a delicious chicken-tortilla soup begins with picking the right ingredients. The main parts that give this Mexican dish its deep flavor are:
- Corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Onion, diced
- Jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (for a spicy kick)
- Garlic, minced
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Diced tomatoes
- Black beans, rinsed and drained
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Frozen corn kernels
- Fresh lime juice
- Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt to taste
For ease, use a rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. Choose low-sodium broth and no-salt-added tomatoes to manage the salt in your chicken soup. The tortilla strips, tomato broth, and black beans blend to make the soup’s unique taste.
“The key to a truly remarkable chicken-tortilla soup lies in the balance of its core ingredients – the rich tomato broth, the tender chicken, and the satisfying black beans and tortilla strips.”
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect chicken tortilla soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools and equipment. A large Dutch oven is the best choice. It has a 6 to 7-quart capacity, perfect for all the ingredients and even heating. Investing in a Le Creuset Dutch oven is a good idea, as it lasts for years.
If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a regular large pot or stock pot works too. Just make sure it’s big enough to hold all the ingredients without being too crowded.
Additional Cooking Utensils
You’ll also need some other important cooking utensils. A sharp chef’s knife is key for chopping veggies fast. A can opener is handy for opening canned goods. And don’t forget measuring cups and spoons for the right amounts of spices and ingredients.
- Large Dutch oven or pot (6-7 quart capacity)
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Can opener
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stirring spoon
With these basic kitchen equipment pieces, you’re ready to make a delicious chicken tortilla soup.
How to Make Homemade Tortilla Strips
Adding a delightful crunch to your chicken tortilla soup is easy with homemade homemade tortilla strips. These crispy tortilla topping not only enhance the texture and flavor but are also simple to make. Here’s how to create the perfect topping for your soup:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Take 10 small corn tortillas and cut them into 1/4-inch wide strips.
- In a large bowl, toss the tortilla strips with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned tortilla strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with a Silpat or foil.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping the strips halfway, until they’re crisp and lightly golden brown.
Once your homemade tortilla strips are done, let them cool a bit. Then, use them as a crunchy topping for your chicken tortilla soup. The contrast of the crispy tortilla topping with the rich, flavorful soup will delight your taste buds.
“The homemade tortilla strips add the perfect crunch to this chicken tortilla soup, making it a truly satisfying and comforting meal.”
Enjoy your freshly made homemade tortilla strips and savor the depth of flavors in your delicious chicken tortilla soup!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the perfect chicken tortilla soup is easy with these simple steps. Let’s go through the process to make this Mexican-inspired dish.
Preparing the Base
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot. Cook the onion and jalapeño over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. When the onion is clear, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Adding Proteins and Vegetables
Now, add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, shredded chicken, and corn. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well.
Final Seasoning Adjustments
Finally, add the fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Taste the soup base and adjust the seasoning adjustments if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
The whole cooking instructions should take 20-25 minutes. This makes it a quick and easy meal for busy weeknights.
“This chicken tortilla soup is a game-changer! The rich, authentic flavors and easy one-pot preparation make it a new family favorite.”
Customizing Your Soup’s Spice Level
When it comes to spicy soup, finding the right heat is key. This chicken tortilla soup recipe lets you adjust the spice to your liking. You can make it spicy with jalapeño or keep it mild for the family.
For a milder soup, take out the seeds from the jalapeño pepper. This cuts down the heat but keeps the flavor. Or, use just half a jalapeño for a bit of spice. For more heat, leave the seeds in or add another pepper.
You can also add cayenne pepper for more heat. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more if you want. It’s better to add more spice than to take it away, so be careful.
| Spice Adjustment | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Remove jalapeño seeds | Milder soup |
| Use only half a jalapeño | Moderately spicy |
| Leave jalapeño seeds intact | Spicier soup |
| Add cayenne pepper | Increase heat level |
The great thing about this chicken tortilla soup is how versatile it is. Try different spice levels to find your favorite. Enjoy a spicy soup that you and your family will love!
Best Toppings and Garnishes
Make your homemade chicken tortilla soup even better with tasty toppings and garnishes. These can turn your soup into a masterpiece. You can choose from traditional Mexican flavors or try something new.
Traditional Mexican Toppings
Begin with classic toppings for a true Mexican touch. Crispy tortilla strips add a nice crunch. Diced avocado brings a creamy feel. Shredded cheese, like cheddar or a Mexican blend, melts well on top.
A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy richness. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime brighten the dish with their flavors.
Creative Garnish Ideas
Try unique garnishes for a twist. Sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick. Chopped green onions give a subtle onion taste. A drizzle of Mexican crema or crushed tortilla chips can also enhance the soup.
Play with different toppings and garnishes to find your favorite. This soup is versatile, letting you make it your own. It’s all about personalizing your soup experience.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Enjoying your homemade soup doesn’t have to stop after one meal. With the right soup storage and freezing, you can enjoy Chicken Tortilla Soup for days or weeks.
To store leftovers, move them to an airtight container and chill in the fridge for 5-7 days. For longer storage, freezing soup is a great choice. Divide the soup into portions or small containers and freeze for up to 6 months.
When freezing, leave space at the top of containers for expansion. Use airtight bags, containers, or freezer cubes. Don’t forget to label and date your containers for easy identification.
Tortilla strips can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them crisp and ready to top your soup.
“Proper storage and freezing techniques can help you savor the flavors of your homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup long after the initial meal.”
These easy soup storage and freezing tips make enjoying homemade leftovers convenient. Stretch your cooking efforts further with these tips. Bon appétit!
Perfect Side Dishes to Serve
Make your chicken tortilla soup even better with some tasty side dishes. Try crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a simple yet tasty choice. Cornbread brings a Southern charm to your meal. For a true Mexican taste, pair your soup with quesadillas or Spanish rice.
Refreshing drinks can also add to your meal. Enjoy a homemade margarita or traditional horchata for a full Mexican dining experience.
- Crusty Bread
- Fresh Green Salad
- Cornbread
- Quesadillas
- Spanish Rice
- Homemade Margarita
- Traditional Horchata
These side dishes and drinks make your meal even better. They add to the Mexican cuisine feel and offer great complementary foods to your soup. Try different pairs to find your favorite for a fulfilling meal.
“A good soup is a small work of art, and a meal in itself.” – Laurie Colwin
Conclusion
This easy homemade chicken tortilla soup is a hit with families. It’s full of rich, authentic Mexican flavors. It’s perfect for any time of year.
It’s great for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a dish to share. The soup has tender chicken, tasty spices, and healthy veggies. You can make it spicier or milder, so everyone can enjoy it.
Try it with crispy tortilla strips, fresh avocado, and lime wedges for a real treat. This soup is a must-have in your kitchen. Its flavor, ease, and flexibility make it a favorite.