Name: Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies); 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges; Extra cheddar cheese (for topping); Sliced jalapeños (for topping)

Bowl of easy chicken tortilla soup garnished with tortilla strips and cilantro

Print Recipe

Warm and inviting, Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup steams and hugs your senses as it simmers on the stovetop. The rich aroma of roasting spices wafts through the air, embracing you with its savory allure and a hint of warmth, promising a meal that delights in every sip. Picture a hearty bowl filled with vibrant colors: the bright orange of corn, the deep red of tomatoes, and the earthy tones of black beans. Each spoonful delivers a medley of flavors that dance on your palate—a perfect symphony of zestiness from the tomatoes, warmth from the spices, and comforting creaminess from the cheese.

Every bowl offers a textural delight. You feel the crunch of crispy tortilla strips juxtaposed against the silky, creamy soup. As you savor the blend of gooey cheddar and heavenly cream cheese, you can’t help but be enthralled by the contrast. The subtle tang from the fresh lime and the fragrant freshness of cilantro elevate this nourishing soup, making it not just a dish but a lively experience that brings joy and comfort, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup promises an abundance of joy in each spoonful, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. It combines wholesome ingredients, making it not only a comforting meal but also a nutritious one. It bursts with flavors that manage to be both grounding and invigorating, encapsulating the best of what comfort food can offer. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; it’s impressive enough to serve at a casual dinner party yet simple enough for a cozy family meal.

You’ll adore the versatility this soup provides. It allows for endless customization, inviting creative twists from adding extra spices to experimenting with your favorite toppings. Regardless of whether you enjoy a spicy kick with jalapeños or prefer the cooling effect of creamy avocado, this soup serves as a perfect canvas. It satisfies cravings while also warming hearts, making it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Crafting this delightful soup requires just a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process and amplify your enjoyment in the kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A trusty pot makes it easy for heat to distribute evenly as you sauté the onions and garlic, enhancing the flavors from the very start.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: These tools help to combine your ingredients seamlessly and allow you to scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate all the golden, flavorful bits.
Sharp Knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and mincing garlic a breeze, ensuring your prep work is efficient and enjoyable.

Pro-tip: Prepare all your ingredients beforehand! Occasionally referred to as “mise en place," having everything ready allows for a smoother cooking experience and adds to the joy of creating this comforting dish.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To create this sumptuous Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or grill chicken breasts for homemade flavor.
1 medium yellow onion, diced: This base ingredient brings sweetness that deepens as it cooks.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a savory kick, enhancing the aroma of the soup.
1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained: Its sweetness complements the spices while providing a satisfying crunch.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Rich in protein, these beans introduce a hearty element to the dish.
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies): This ingredient delivers just the right amount of tang and spiciness.
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): The heart of your soup, this broth provides depth and comfort.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This melty addition brings a creamy texture and richness to each bowl.
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed: Cream cheese enhances the silkiness and takes the soup to the next level of indulgence.
Spices (1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper): Each spice plays an essential role, layering flavors that elevate the dish.
Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips: These provide delicious crunch and texture.
Fresh cilantro, chopped: Adding freshness, cilantro brightens each bite.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime offers a tart contrast, lifting the other flavors.
Extra cheddar cheese & sliced jalapeños: These can be excellent, personalized toppings to enhance the experience.

Feel free to substitute ingredients to suit your preference, such as using chicken thighs for richer meat or adding bell peppers for additional crunch.

How to Make Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creating your Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps for a creamy, savory creation:

Heat Some Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers—this prepares the pan for your aromatics.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced yellow onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Spice It Up: Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Allow the spices to toast for about 1 minute—this step intensifies their flavors.
Add the Hearty Ingredients: Mix in the corn, black beans, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, and shredded chicken. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, letting the flavors meld together.
Simmer to Perfection: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the soup to thicken slightly and develop flavor.
Incorporate Creaminess: Stir in the cream cheese cubes, ensuring they fully melt into the soup for added smoothness.
Cheese Time: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it gets bubbly and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding extra salt or pepper if you desire.
Serve It Up: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, extra cheese, and sliced jalapeños if you like it spicy.

These straightforward steps guide you to a bowl of bliss, bringing warmth and joy to the table.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the soup a day before you plan to serve it. The flavors deepen as they sit overnight, enhancing your experience.
Cooking Alternatives: Use an Instant Pot for quicker results; simply set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Alternatively, bring the soup to a slow simmer in a crockpot and allow it to cook for 4-5 hours.
Customization Ideas: Feel free to amp up the spices or add other veggies like zucchini or diced bell peppers. A dollop of sour cream or avocado can take this dish to new heights!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Aromatics: Avoid letting the garlic brown too much; it can turn bitter and overpower the soup. Aim for a light sauté until the onion is translucent.
Too Much Liquid: If you find your soup is too thin, simmer it longer to concentrate the flavors. Alternatively, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Under-seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust the salt or add more spices to align with your taste buds.

What to Serve With Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your soup with:

Cornbread: The subtly sweet bread complements the spicy notes in your soup beautifully.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole enriches the freshness of your tortilla soup.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice makes for a fulfilling side choice.
Tostadas: Crunchy tostadas are perfect for dipping and add extra layers of texture.
Salad: A light side salad with cilantro-lime dressing offers freshness to balance the creamy soup.
Quesadillas: Stuffed with cheese and veggies, quesadillas make ideal dipping partners.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado provides a smooth texture contrast that’s enchanting with each bite.
Fresh Salsa: A vibrant, zesty salsa adds additional freshness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers of this delightful chicken tortilla soup store beautifully.

Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld and become even more delightful the next day.
Freeze: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers, allowing space for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens, add a little broth or water to loosen it up.

Estimated Nutrition Information

While each serving can vary based on specific ingredients, a rough estimate contains:

Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 7g

(Note: This information is approximate and depends on ingredient brands and preparation methods.)

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with plant-based protein such as lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still enjoy the same rich flavors.

2. What toppings can I use beyond what’s listed?
Get creative! Options like crumbled feta, diced red onions, diced radish, or even a swirl of yogurt can add a unique twist to your soup.

3. How can I optimize the nutrition of this recipe?
Incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added vitamins. Opt for low-fat cheese or cream cheese to lighten it up a bit.

4. Can I prepare this soup in advance for a gathering?
Yes! You can prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat just before serving. Consider having toppings ready so guests can customize their bowls.

5. What if the soup is too spicy for my taste?
If you accidentally over-spice, balance the heat with another dollop of cream cheese or an additional splash of lime juice to cut the spice.

Conclusion

Indulging in a bowl of Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup warms both body and soul. The inviting aroma, coupled with the delightful layering of flavors and textures, welcomes you to discover your new favorite comfort food. With this recipe, you’re steps away from creating something utterly satisfying. Try it for dinner tonight, and let every spoonful bring you closer to culinary bliss. Embrace the warmth, share with loved ones, and savor each delicious bite—you won’t regret it!

Hi, I’m Clara!

I'm a food lover and a firm believer that anyone can learn to cook with a little curiosity and courage. My story with food didn’t begin in a tiny apartment with a two-burner stove and a stack of cookbooks from the local library. I was broke and desperate to make something anything that felt like home.

About Me