When the scent of spicy chicken soup wafts through your kitchen, magic occurs. It brings back memories of family, warm talks, and cozy meals. This Mexican tortilla soup is more than a recipe. It’s a journey to the heart of Mexican flavors.
Picture a steaming bowl of chili chicken tortilla soup. It’s filled with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and just the right spices. It’s not just food; it’s a feast of flavors that warms your soul.
Key Takeaways
- A versatile and nutritious soup perfect for any season
- Packed with protein and essential nutrients
- Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients
- Customizable heat levels to suit your taste
- Authentic Mexican-inspired flavors in every spoonful
What is Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup
Explore the world of southwestern soup, a mix of rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This chicken tortilla soup recipe is a true taste of Mexican culinary tradition. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey through authentic cuisine.
A steaming bowl of chili chicken tortilla soup, its rich orange broth dotted with tender shredded chicken, chunky tomatoes, and crisp tortilla strips. The aroma of cumin, chili powder, and smoky chipotle fills the air, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. In the foreground, a wedge of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro add a vibrant pop of color and zesty flavor. The middle ground features a thick, textured tortilla chip, partially submerged in the savory soup, while the background showcases a simple, rustic tabletop setting, allowing the focus to remain on the star of the dish. Bright, natural lighting casts a warm glow, enhancing the appetizing appearance of this comforting and satisfying Mexican-inspired soup.
This vibrant soup combines many ingredients for a satisfying experience. It has tender chicken, bold spices, and fresh vegetables. Together, they create an explosion of flavor in every spoonful.
Traditional Origins and Background
This soup comes from Mexican cuisine, a tradition passed down for generations. It started in home kitchens, where cooks made simple ingredients into amazing dishes. Mexico’s rich food culture, where resourcefulness meets flavor, is its foundation.
Key Components and Flavors
- Shredded chicken breast as the main protein
- Black beans for texture and nutrition
- Sweet corn kernels
- A mix of three dried Mexican peppers:
- Guajillo
- Pasilla
- Ancho
The soup’s unique taste comes from a special spice blend. It includes ground cumin, chili powder, and paprika. These spices add depth, making the soup unforgettable.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
This southwestern soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. It has about 17g of protein per serving, offering essential nutrients. The mix of lean chicken, beans, and veggies makes it a balanced meal.
It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, including:
- 471 mg of potassium
- 1.9 mg of iron
- 10.8 mg of Vitamin C
- Only 200 calories
Looking for comfort food or a healthy meal? This chicken tortilla soup recipe has it all.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Soup
A bountiful still life against a warm, rustic backdrop. In the foreground, an array of vibrant chili peppers, freshly diced chicken, and crisp tortilla strips. In the middle ground, a simmering pot of steaming broth, infused with earthy cumin and smoky chipotle. In the background, a wooden table, adorned with lush cilantro sprigs and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Soft, natural lighting casts a cozy glow, inviting the viewer to savor the comforting aroma and flavors of this essential Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Making a great chili chicken broth-based tortilla strips soup needs the right ingredients. These ingredients should work together to make a flavorful chunky chicken soup. Start by picking top-quality items to turn a basic recipe into a dish you’ll remember.
Core Ingredients Breakdown
- Protein: Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Aromatics: Sweet onion, garlic cloves
- Spices: Ground cumin, chipotle powder
- Base ingredients: Canned tomatoes, chicken broth
- Vegetables: Black beans, corn
- Fresh accents: Limes, cilantro
Every ingredient is important for the soup’s taste. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are essential for a real and tasty experience.
Nutritional Ingredient Insights
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 2 pieces | High protein, low fat |
| Black Beans | 1 can | Fiber, plant-based protein |
| Corn | 1 cup | Carbohydrates, vitamin C |
| Chicken Broth | 4 cups | Hydration, mineral base |
When picking ingredients for your tortilla strips soup, choose fresh and real. Go for organic produce and free-range chicken. This will make your chunky chicken soup taste better and be healthier.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
Making a tasty one-pot meal like chili chicken tortilla soup needs the right tools. The right gear makes cooking smoother and more fun. Let’s look at what you’ll need to make this flavorful soup.
Essential Cookware
For the best chili chicken tortilla soup, you’ll need some key pots:
- Dutch Oven: The perfect pot for a hearty meal with even heat
- Large stockpot with a heavy bottom
- Deep skillet with high sides
Prep Tools and Utensils
Having the right tools helps you prep ingredients fast:
- Sharp chef’s knife for precise cuts
- Cutting board (wood or plastic)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spatula or silicone spoon
- Whisk for mixing ingredients
Storage Containers
Storing your soup right is important after you’ve enjoyed it:
- Airtight glass containers
- Freezer-safe plastic containers
- Small containers for easy reheating
Having the right tools makes making chili chicken tortilla soup fun. Invest in good equipment, and cooking delicious meals will be easy.
Preparing the Chicken and Base
Making a spicy chicken soup begins with a flavorful base and tender chicken. Your chili chicken broth is key, needing the right ingredients and cooking methods.
First, collect your soup base ingredients:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (approximately 3 cups)
To cook your spicy chicken soup, follow these steps. Start by heating olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Cook the onions, garlic, and bell pepper until they’re soft and smell great. This step adds a lot of flavor to your chili chicken broth.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Rotisserie Chicken | 3 cups | Shredded |
| Chicken Stock | 8 cups | Room temperature |
| Chili Powder | 2 teaspoons | Ground |
| Ground Cumin | 1 tablespoon | Ground |
Then, add your spices: chili powder, ground cumin, and salt. These will make your chili chicken broth richer and more complex. Add the chicken stock and let it boil gently. Then, lower the heat and simmer, letting the flavors mix well.
Shred your rotisserie chicken into small pieces and add it to the broth. This way, your chicken will be tender and full of flavor in your spicy chicken soup.
Creating the Perfect Spice Blend
Making the perfect spice blend is key for a true mexican tortilla soup. It brings out the best of southwestern soup flavors. The right mix of spices turns a simple dish into a feast for your taste buds and heart.
Essential Mexican Seasonings
For a traditional southwestern soup, you’ll need these spices:
- Ground cumin (¼ teaspoon)
- Chipotle powder (½ teaspoon)
- Dried oregano (¼ teaspoon)
- Chili powder (2 teaspoons)
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon)
Heat Level Customization
Adjusting the spice level lets you make a mexican tortilla soup just right for you. Start with a little chipotle or chili powder. Then add more to get the heat you like.
| Spice Level | Chipotle Powder Amount | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | ¼ teaspoon | Subtle warmth |
| Medium | ½ teaspoon | Moderate kick |
| Spicy | 1 teaspoon | Intense heat |
Balancing the Flavors
To add depth to your southwestern soup, balance your spices well. Cumin adds earthiness, and chipotle powder brings smoky heat. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the flavors, balancing the richness of the spices.
Try different spice mixes to make your mexican tortilla soup unforgettable.
Making Homemade Tortilla Strips
Making crispy tortilla strips for your chili chicken tortilla soup is an art. It makes the dish even better. Your homemade strips will add a delightful crunch and authentic texture that store-bought versions can’t match. The process is simple but requires attention to detail.
To prepare perfect tortilla strips for your tortilla strips soup, you’ll need:
- 6 small corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Sharp kitchen knife
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create crispy, golden tortilla strips:
- Stack corn tortillas and cut into uniform 1/4-inch strips
- Heat oil in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat
- Fry strips in small batches for approximately 1 minute per side
- Remove when golden brown and crispy
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil
Pro tips for achieving perfect tortilla strips in your chili chicken tortilla soup include maintaining consistent oil temperature and avoiding overcrowding the pan. The strips should be light, crisp, and add a delightful texture to your soup.
| Cooking Method | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Stovetop Frying | 1 minute per side | Medium-high heat |
| Air Fryer | 2-4 minutes | 350°F |
| Oven Baking | 11-14 minutes | 350°F |
Experiment with different methods to find your favorite tortilla strip preparation technique!
Vegetables and Add-ins for Your Soup
Making a tasty chunky chicken soup means picking the right veggies and pantry items. Your soup will shine with a mix of fresh produce and ingredients that add flavor and health benefits.
Fresh Produce Options
Make your soup pop with fresh veggies that add texture and flavor. Here are some great choices:
- Onions (1 large, chopped)
- Bell peppers (2 medium, diced)
- Jalapeños (2, membranes and seeds removed)
- Fresh garlic (5-6 cloves, minced)
- Carrots (2 medium, sliced)
Pantry Staples to Include
Use these pantry items to make your soup hearty and fulfilling:
- Black beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- Corn (1.5 cups, frozen or canned)
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz, fire-roasted recommended)
- Green chiles (1 can)
When mixing these, aim for a balanced mix for a rich, hearty soup. Each item brings its own taste and health benefits to your soup.
Pro tip: Add a ¼ cup of fresh lime juice at the end. It will brighten the dish and improve the taste.
Cooking Methods and Techniques
To make the perfect chicken tortilla soup, you need to know a few cooking tricks. This tasty dish can be made in different ways, each with its own benefits for cooks at home.
Stovetop Cooking Method
The stovetop method is great for getting lots of flavor. Begin by heating olive oil in a big pot. Then, sauté your aromatics. As you add more ingredients, your soup starts to taste amazing:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Sauté 6 minced garlic cloves and 1 large chopped onion
- Add diced chicken breast and brown evenly
- Incorporate spices like cumin and chili powder
Cooking Time and Temperature
It’s important to simmer your soup well to get a rich taste. Try to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This lets all the flavors mix together perfectly.
| Cooking Method | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Stovetop | 25-30 minutes | Medium-low heat |
| Slow Cooker | 6-8 hours | Low setting |
| Instant Pot | 15 minutes | High pressure |
Each cooking method has its own perks. The stovetop lets you control the heat, the slow cooker makes flavors deeper, and the Instant Pot cooks food fast and tender.
Final Cooking Tips
Take out the chicken and shred it before putting it back in the soup. This makes the meat tender and evenly spread. Add beans, corn, and a bit of lime juice towards the end. This will make the whole dish brighter and more flavorful.
Serving Suggestions and Toppings
Make your spicy chicken soup special with the right garnishes and sides. These can turn a simple meal into a feast. The perfect toppings add texture, freshness, and depth to your mexican tortilla soup.
Fresh Garnishes to Enhance Your Soup
Wake up your spicy chicken soup with these bright garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced green onions
- Sliced fresh jalapeños
- Creamy avocado chunks
- Tangy sour cream
Perfect Side Dish Pairings
Pair your mexican tortilla soup with these tasty sides:
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | Warm and comforting |
| Corn Salad | Fresh and light |
| Guacamole | Creamy and rich |
| Quesadillas | Cheesy and crisp |
Remember, use one handful of crispy tortilla strips per serving. Arrange your toppings to make your dish look great. This will impress your guests.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keeping your chili chicken tortilla soup fresh is key. The right storage and reheating methods can make all the difference. Your homemade soup will stay delicious for a long time.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
- Store for up to 4 days in the refrigerator
- Freeze for extended preservation up to 3 months
When you’re ready to reheat your soup, remember these steps:
- Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight
- Reheat slowly on the stovetop
- Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture
- Stir occasionally to prevent scorching
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Store in sealed container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe containers |
Pro tip: Separate toppings like tortilla strips and fresh garnishes until serving to maintain their crispness and flavor.
For quicker soup making, use a rotisserie chicken. It saves time and makes your soup delicious without long hours in the kitchen.
Variations and Substitutions
Making the perfect chicken tortilla soup is all about flexibility. You can change up your southwestern soup with simple swaps and creative tweaks. These changes can match your diet and taste preferences.
Dietary Modifications
- Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu or black beans instead of chicken
- Gluten-free: Choose corn tortillas over flour tortillas
- Low-carb: Cut down on corn and beans, add more protein
- Dairy-free: Skip the cream cheese and use coconut milk for creaminess
Protein Alternatives
- Swap chicken with:
- Ground turkey
- Shredded beef
- Pulled pork
- Plant-based protein crumbles
Ingredient Flexibility
Your chicken tortilla soup recipe is open to creative changes:
- Corn options: Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn
- Bean varieties: Try black, pinto, or kidney beans
- Add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach
- Make it creamier with 1/4 cup cream cheese
Don’t forget to drain and rinse canned beans for the best texture. Each change adds new flavors while keeping the soup hearty.
Conclusion
Your journey to make the perfect Mexican tortilla soup ends with a tasty adventure. This chili chicken tortilla soup is more than food. It’s a celebration of bold flavors and home cooking.
With just 45 minutes of prep time, you can make a dish that wows everyone. It’s a quick way to turn simple ingredients into something amazing.
This recipe is very flexible. It’s great for a cozy dinner or for trying Mexican flavors. You can adjust the heat, change the protein, or make it vegetarian to fit your taste and diet.
Cooking is all about exploring. Every time you make this soup, you can try new things. You can play with spices or try different proteins. Your Mexican tortilla soup can become a special dish that shows off your cooking style.
Don’t be afraid to try new things. Trust your instincts and enjoy the tasty results of your cooking.
Your homemade soup is more than just a meal. It’s a warm, comforting experience that brings people together. So, get your ingredients ready, fire up the stove, and start making a memorable meal that celebrates Mexican flavors.
FAQ
What makes Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup different from other chicken soups?
Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup is unique because of its bold Mexican flavors. It has a spicy chili chicken broth and crispy tortilla strips. It also has southwestern spices like cumin and chipotle powder. This soup has a complex flavor and a crunchy texture from the homemade tortilla strips.
Is Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup difficult to prepare at home?
No, it’s not hard at all! This soup is a simple, one-pot meal that takes about 45 minutes to make. With basic cooking skills and the right ingredients, you can make a delicious soup at home. The recipe is easy to follow and you can make it your own.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Just replace chicken with tofu or more beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Make sure all ingredients are vegetarian. The soup’s flavors will still be amazing.
How spicy is Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You can make it as spicy as you like. Adjust the chili powder, chipotle powder, or add fresh chilis to control the heat. Start with a mild version and add more spice as you prefer.
How long can I store Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You can store it in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge. Freeze it (without tortilla strips) for up to 3 months. Always reheat well and add fresh tortilla strips before serving for crunch.
What are the best toppings for Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Top it with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Sliced jalapeños and crispy tortilla strips are also great. These toppings add flavor and texture.
Is this soup nutritionally balanced?
Yes, it’s very nutritious. It has lean protein from chicken, fiber from beans and veggies, and lots of vitamins and minerals. It’s a healthy, balanced meal.
Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time?
Definitely! Using a rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup in the last stages of cooking. It’s quick and still tastes great.
How to Make Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup in Under an Hour
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño seeded and diced (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 14.5 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie or leftover
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- For the Crispy Tortilla Strips:
- 4 corn tortillas cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Toppings Optional but Recommended!:
- Shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Avocado slices
- Extra lime wedges
- Fresh jalapeño slices
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Crispy Tortilla Strips
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss tortilla strips with olive oil and salt.
- Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Soup
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in fire-roasted tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Add black beans, corn, and shredded chicken.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Step 3: Assemble And Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with crispy tortilla strips and your favorite toppings!
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Want a smoky kick? Add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
- Prefer a thicker soup? Blend 1 cup of the soup and stir it back in.
- Make it creamy! Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.