Are you in the mood for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavors? Look no further than this delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of spices, this soup is a one-way ticket to flavor town. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to warm your soul. Get ready to treat your taste buds to a fiesta of flavors!

Ingredients

1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 onion
1 Tbsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1 can crushed tomatoes undrained
1 can chopped green chilies (4oz.)
1 can drained and rinsed black beans
1 can drained corn
1 pound shredded chicken (I use rotisserie chicken)
1.5 cartons chicken broth (6 cups)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until the aroma fills the air.

3. Sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder, stirring to coat the onions and garlic with the fragrant spices. Allow them to cook for about a minute.

4. Time to introduce the stars of the show! Pour in the crushed tomatoes, along with their juices, and add the chopped green chilies. Give everything a good stir to combine those wonderful flavors.

5. Add the drained and rinsed black beans, the corn, and the shredded chicken to the pot. The chicken brings a protein punch, while the beans and corn add a satisfying texture.

6. Pour in the chicken broth, which serves as the base for your soup. Stir everything together and watch the ingredients blend into a symphony of colors and flavors.

7. Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld and create a taste sensation.

Optional Toppings

Time to make this soup your own!

One of the best things about this dish is the opportunity to make it your own. That’s right – it’s all about the optional toppings! So, let’s talk about how you can take your chicken tortilla soup to the next level by exploring some fantastic optional toppings that will not only enhance the taste but also add a visually appealing dimension to your meal.

1. Shredded Cheese

Ladle the hot tortilla soup into your bowl, and the first optional topping you should consider is shredded cheese. A generous sprinkle of cheese, whether it’s cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend, will melt into the soup, creating a creamy, gooey texture that’s absolutely irresistible. The cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful contrast to the broth’s warmth.

2. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

For those who appreciate a creamy and tangy component in their soup, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt is the perfect choice. This topping adds a cool and velvety contrast to the hot and spicy soup, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and temperatures. The creaminess of these dairy products complements the boldness of the soup’s spices beautifully.

3. Sliced Avocado

Sliced avocado is another optional topping that can elevate your tortilla soup experience. The natural creaminess and buttery texture of avocados make them an ideal addition. Avocado slices not only contribute a rich, nutty flavor but also provide a satisfyingly smooth element to each spoonful. Plus, they’re packed with healthy fats and nutrients, making your soup even more nutritious.

4. Crunchy Tortilla Strips

No tortilla soup would be complete without a satisfying crunch, and that’s where crunchy tortilla strips come into play. Sprinkle a handful of these crisp, golden strips on top of your soup, and you’ll enjoy a delightful textural contrast. These strips are not only visually appealing but also provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s depth of flavors.

Customizing your tortilla soup with these optional toppings allows you to create a personalized dining experience. You can mix and match these toppings based on your preferences, creating a unique combination every time you enjoy this delicious dish.

From the sautéed onions releasing their enticing aroma to the final touch of colorful toppings, making this Chicken Tortilla Soup is a journey of flavors. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a delightful blend of spices, textures, and satisfying elements. Whether you’re cozying up indoors or serving a gathering of friends, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, don your apron and prepare to create a masterpiece that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart.