Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Flavorful and Quick Dish!

Introduction to Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

As a passionate home cook, I’m always hunting for meals that are not only delicious but also quick to whip up. Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup fits the bill perfectly! Imagine a bowl filled with tender chicken, hearty black beans, and vibrant veggies, all simmered together to create a warm embrace for your taste buds. This dish is grounding, comforting, and the aroma alone can turn a chaotic day into something special. Whether you’re crunched for time or just want to indulge in the cozy flavors of home, this soup is a nourishing solution that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a winner for busy moms and professionals like us! With its straightforward preparation, you can have dinner ready in just 45 minutes, leaving you more time to unwind. The rich, zesty flavors meld together beautifully, offering a satisfying meal that warms both the soul and the appetite. Plus, who can resist the crunch of crispy tortilla strips? It’s comfort food done right!

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need:

• Small corn tortillas – the star for crispy topping.
• Olive oil – for a touch of richness in both the strips and soup.
• Kosher salt – enhances all those vibrant flavors.
• Jalapenos – add a spicy kick if you dare!
• Medium yellow onion and green bell pepper – to sauté and bring sweetness.
• Minced garlic – because everything is better with garlic.
• Chicken broth – a flavorful base every soup needs.
• Crushed tomatoes – perfect for that rich, tomatoey goodness.
• Black beans – provides hearty protein and fiber.
• Cooked chicken breast – gives the soup its delicious, filling element.
• Spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika – to layer on flavor.
• Fresh cilantro – for a burst of freshness at the end.

Feel free to swap out jalapenos for a milder pepper or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Detailed measurements are waiting for you at the end of the article!

How to Make Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Making Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is all about layered flavors and simple steps. I promise, it’s simpler than it looks, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time! Grab your apron and let’s dive in!

Prepare the Tortilla Strips

First things first, let’s talk about those crispy tortilla strips. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). While it heats up, take 8 small corn tortillas and slice them into thin strips, about 6 mm wide. In a mixing bowl, toss the tortilla strips with 15 ml of olive oil and sprinkle about 5 g of kosher salt over the top. Spread the strips evenly on a lined baking tray, making sure they don’t overlap. Now, pop that tray in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them and stir halfway through to ensure they turn golden and crisp. The aroma will be irresistible!

Sauté the Vegetables

While the tortillas are baking, let’s move on to the vegetables! In a large Dutch oven, heat 30 ml of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeños. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften up and your kitchen starts to smell divine. At this point, throw in 10 g of minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. The garlic will add that lovely depth of flavor!

Combine the Soup Ingredients

Now we’re ready to bring it all together. Carefully pour in 950 ml of chicken broth and 800 g of crushed tomatoes. Next, drain and rinse those 2 cans of black beans and add them in, followed by your chunks of cooked chicken breast. Don’t forget the spices! Add in 8 g of chili powder, 15 ml of lime juice, 4 g of ground cumin, and season with 10 g of salt, 2 g of ground black pepper, 2 g of smoked paprika, and just a pinch of 0.5 g of cayenne pepper for some extra heat if you like! Bring everything to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Final Touches

After your soup has simmered, stir in 10 g of finely minced cilantro for a fresh pop of flavor. Allow it to cook for just another minute, then remove the pot from heat. Can you smell that? It’s pure comfort in a bowl! Just wait until you layer on the crispy tortilla strips.

Serve and Enjoy

It’s time to dish out your masterpiece! Ladle the delicious Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup into bowls, and top each serving with your crispy tortilla strips. For a delightful finishing touch, consider toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a spoonful of guacamole. It’s all about making it your own! Sit down, relax, and enjoy the amazing flavors you’ve created.

Tips for Success

When making this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, a few helpful hints can make all the difference!

• Don’t skip the crispy tortilla strips; they add crunch and texture.
• Taste as you go! Adjust seasonings to your preference.
• Substitute ingredients as needed; feel free to get creative.
• Cook chicken ahead of time for an even quicker prep.
• Save leftovers for a delicious lunch the next day.

Equipment Needed

To whip up this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Large Dutch oven or pot – perfect for simmering soups.
• Cutting board and knife – for chopping veggies and tortillas.
• Baking tray – to crisp up those tortilla strips.
• Mixing bowl – for tossing the tortilla strips with oil.
• Wooden spoon – ideal for stirring and blending flavors.

Variations

This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some fun ways to personalize it:

• Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for extra black beans or chickpeas.
• Add different veggies like corn, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• For a creamy version, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream.
• Experiment with different spices—smoked chili powder or oregano can elevate the flavors.
• Top with your favorite cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or feta for added richness!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup experience, consider these delightful accompaniments and presentation tips:

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or a side of cornbread for dipping.
• A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
• Top with fresh avocado slices for creaminess.
• Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro for a pop of color.
• Pair with a light, fruity white wine for a perfect dinner vibe!

FAQs about Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

As you embark on your culinary adventure with Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you might have some questions. Here are a few common ones that could help!

Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to save time. Just shred or chop it up and add it directly to the soup.

How spicy is this soup?
The spice level can be easily adjusted. If you want it milder, reduce the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper. Conversely, add more if you enjoy that fiery kick!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, then top with fresh tortilla strips before serving.

Can I make this soup in advance?
Definitely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even further. Just store the tortilla strips separately, so they stay crisp until you’re ready to eat.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is naturally gluten-free, perfect for your dietary needs. Just be sure to choose gluten-free tortillas if needed.

Final Thoughts

As I indulge in a bowl of Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup, I’m reminded of all the warmth it brings to my home. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening spent alone with your thoughts. You can see the love in each spoonful, from the crispy tortilla strips to the vibrant flavors lingering on your palate. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this soup as I do. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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