Introduction

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. It is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or looking for a comforting meal to share with loved ones. This recipe is easy to follow and provides a satisfying explosion of taste in every spoonful, making it a popular choice among families.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breast: 1 pound, cooked and shredded
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Onion: 1 medium, chopped
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Bell pepper: 1, diced
– Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces)
– Chicken broth: 4 cups
– Corn: 1 cup, frozen or canned
– Black beans: 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
– Cumin: 1 teaspoon
– Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Tortilla strips: for serving
– Avocado: 1, diced (optional)
– Fresh cilantro: for garnish (optional)
– Cheese: for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken. You can either boil, bake, or sauté it until fully cooked. Once done, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices

Stir in cumin, chili powder, oregano, and salt to the sautéed vegetables. Cook for about a minute until the spices are well incorporated and fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and add diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Add Shredded Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to ensure it is well distributed throughout the soup.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Allow the flavors to meld together during this time.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

Just before serving, add lime juice and chopped cilantro. Stir to incorporate these fresh ingredients into the soup.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and extra cilantro, if desired.

Notes

Tip for Chicken

You can use rotisserie chicken as a convenient alternative to cooking your own chicken.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or black beans to customize the soup to your liking.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Spice Level

Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your preferred spice level. Consider adding jalapeños for extra heat.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a technique used to cook food quickly in a small amount of oil over high heat. It’s perfect for browning vegetables and proteins to enhance their flavors.

Simmering

Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature. This technique allows flavors to meld together, making it ideal for soups and stews.

Chopping

Chopping is the process of cutting food into small pieces. Uniformly chopped ingredients ensure even cooking and enhance the presentation of the dish.

Shredding

Shredding is a technique used primarily for meats and cheese, where the food is pulled apart into thin strips. This method allows for easy incorporation into soups and salads.

Garnishing

Garnishing refers to adding decorative elements to a dish before serving. Fresh herbs, diced avocado, or lime wedges can enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your chicken tortilla soup.

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to the soup.

Is this soup spicy?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. You can use mild green chiles or add jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, the soup can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with chicken tortilla soup?

It pairs well with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a fresh salad.

Can I freeze the chicken tortilla soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

Conclusion

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that brings warmth to any meal. The combination of tender chicken, rich broth, and vibrant toppings makes it a favorite for families. Its versatility allows for easy customization to suit different tastes, whether you prefer it spicy or mild. Enjoying this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also provides comfort and nourishment.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Tortilla Soup

Swap chicken for black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Add more vegetables like zucchini and corn for added flavor.

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Stir in some cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for a rich, creamy texture that enhances the soup’s flavor.

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Increase the heat by adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give your soup an extra kick.

Chicken Tortilla Soup with Quinoa

Incorporate cooked quinoa to make this soup even more filling and nutritious while adding a pleasant texture.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Salad

Transform your soup into a salad by using the ingredients as a topping for mixed greens, drizzling with lime dressing.

Tortilla Soup Tacos

Use the soup as a filling for tacos, adding shredded cheese and fresh avocado for a delightful twist on traditional tacos.