There’s something truly special about a steaming bowl of Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup. The rich, savory broth, perfectly tender chicken, and a fiesta of colorful toppings create a symphony of textures and flavors that makes each spoonful a delight. When I make this dish, I can’t help but feel comforted – it’s a staple in my kitchen, a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones.
This soup comes together surprisingly fast and is incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, it’s always a hit! And the best part? Leftovers taste just as delicious, making it a remarkable option for meal prep throughout the week.
WHY I LOVE CLASSIC CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP
Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup hits that sweet spot between ease and flavor. It’s incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, making it a true winner at my table. The combination of spices, tender chicken, and your favorite toppings lets everyone customize their bowl just how they like it. Plus, it’s a comforting dish that elevates any gathering—it never fails to impress!
CLASSIC CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP INGREDIENTS
The magic of this Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup truly lies in its harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and spices. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to sauté the veggies, adding richness and flavor from the start!
- 1 onion, chopped: The aromatic foundation that becomes wonderfully sweet as it cooks down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: These little gems pack a mighty punch, infusing the soup with irresistible flavor.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds a lovely crunch and sweetness to balance the broth.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides depth and acidity that brightens the entire soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The soul of the dish! Choose low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Tender morsels that soak up the broth and add heartiness.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Boosts protein and adds a creamy texture.
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned): Sweet bursts that elevate the soup’s flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy and warm spice that adds depth to each bite.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: For a gentle kick that warms you from the inside out.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Tortilla strips, for serving: These crispy bits provide a delightful crunch!
- Avocado, for garnish: Creamy slices that add a fresh touch.
- Cheese, for garnish: Because who doesn’t love a little gooey goodness on top?
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Brightens the final dish with its vibrant flavor!
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? You can easily change things up based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer taste (though it won’t be quite as lean). For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more beans or even lentils for protein. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use store-bought rotisserie chicken; it cuts down on prep time significantly. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting spices and seasoning to your liking!
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- Large pot (at least 8-quart)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
HOW TO MAKE CLASSIC CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP
Let’s dive into creating this comforting Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for a flavorful and hearty soup that warms the soul, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave something truly satisfying!
Heat the Pot
First, in a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it to shimmer but not smoke. This oil will set the stage for the base flavors to flourish, so make sure it’s nice and hot before we toss in the veggies.
Sauté the Aromatics
Next, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step is key—it builds the flavor foundation for our entire soup!
Build the Flavor Base
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder. The colors are stunning, and the smells are already delightful! Give it all a good stir, making sure everything is well combined.
Bring to a Gentle Boil
Once mixed, bring the concoction to a gentle boil. You’ll want to reduce the heat and allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes. This helps blend the flavors beautifully, and you’ll start to see some steamy magic happening!
Season to Perfection
After simmering, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t hold back here—this simple adjustment brings everything together harmoniously. Taste and adjust as peering into a symphony of flavors!
Serve and Garnish
Finally, serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. All these toppings add an exciting flourish, making each bowl a vibrant presentation of flavors.
HOW TO STORE CLASSIC CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP
Leftovers taste wonderful the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. At room temperature, it’s best to enjoy the soup within two hours. For refrigerator storage, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep for up to 3-4 days. If you’re looking to store it longer, you can freeze the soup for 2-3 months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating! Warm it on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Use high-quality broth for the best flavor—homemade is ideal if you have it!
- Don’t rush the sautéing step; it enhances the sweetness of your veggies.
- Adjust the spices to suit your heat preference by adding more chili powder or even a dash of hot sauce!
- Finish with fresh ingredients just before serving for a vibrant touch.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch!
- Pair with a light green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette.
- Enjoy with a refreshing margarita or iced tea for a fiesta feel.
- Consider adding a dollop of sour cream for creamy decadence.
- Present in individual bowls with garnishes for a beautiful table display.
There you have it—your new favorite recipe for Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup! Trust me, you’ll want to keep coming back for more. Enjoy every comforting bite!
