10 Irresistible Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipes to Savor

Name: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color); 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 cup tortilla chips; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

August 16, 2025

Updated:

August 16, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of chicken tortilla soup. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Each spoonful delivers a delightful burst of flavors: tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and crunchy tortilla strips that dance together in perfect harmony.

This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood kitchen, where family gathered on chilly evenings. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, chicken tortilla soup always brings smiles and satisfied bellies. Get ready for an extraordinary flavor experience that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken tortilla soup recipe is easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners hassle-free
The rich blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor in each bite
Its colorful presentation will brighten up any table setting
Perfect as a main dish or served as a starter at gatherings, it’s sure to impress everyone!

I still remember the first time I served this soup for friends; their delighted reactions were priceless, filled with compliments and requests for seconds.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your crowd size or leftovers craving.
Fresh Garlic: Go for firm cloves; fresh garlic will give your soup that irresistible punch.
Onion: A medium-sized onion adds depth; chop it finely to ensure even cooking.
Bell Peppers: Any color will do! They add sweetness and vibrant color to your soup.
Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor; they’re the soul of this soup.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices are essential for that authentic Mexican flair; don’t skip them!
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy toppings elevate the texture; feel free to use store-bought or homemade chips for added flair.
Fresh Cilantro: A handful adds brightness; chop it roughly right before serving for freshness.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens every bite; squeeze over your finished bowl for added zing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by cooking the chicken breasts in a pot over medium heat until they reach 165°F (75°C). Shred them once cool enough to handle.

Sauté Those Aromatics!: In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a beautiful base flavor.

Add Your Veggies and Spices: Toss in chopped bell peppers along with cumin and chili powder. Stir them together until everything is beautifully coated and aromatic.

Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices and chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors meld together beautifully—about 15 minutes is perfect here.

Finish with Chicken and Toppings!: Stir in your shredded chicken and let it heat through while you prepare toppings like cilantro and lime wedges. The smell will be intoxicating!

Serve with Style!: Ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with crunchy tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy every last drop!

With these steps complete, you’ve created a bowl of joy that’s sure to bring warmth to any gathering or solo night-in!

You Must Know

This delightful chicken tortilla soup offers warmth and flavor, perfect for cozy nights
The rich aromas of spices and fresh ingredients create a comforting bowl that’s sure to please everyone
It’s versatile, too, allowing you to adjust the heat based on your taste preference

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor, then add chicken and stock for a hearty base. Let it simmer while you prepare the toppings, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap black beans for pinto or add corn for sweetness. You can also spice things up with jalapeños or lime juice for a zesty finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

This chicken tortilla soup recipe shines with fresh ingredients; use homemade broth for extra depth of flavor
Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy
Garnish generously with toppings like avocado and cheese for a satisfying finish

Cooking this chicken tortilla soup always brings back memories of family game nights where laughter filled the air as we enjoyed warm bowls together.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make chicken tortilla soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or tofu and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking to crank up the heat.

What toppings work best with chicken tortilla soup recipes?

Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, crispy tortilla strips, and shredded cheese are all excellent choices!

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