The Best Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
There’s so much to love about this cozy soup, from its rich flavors to how easy it is to make. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something comforting.
- Flavorful and filling—packed with tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a hint of spice, it’s a meal you’ll want seconds of.
- Quick and simple—whip it up in under an hour, even on busy weeknights, with minimal prep.
- Customizable—add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or tortilla strips to make it your own!
Recipe
This homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth. Topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese, it’s a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (for garnish)
- Tortilla strips (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, jalapeño, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips.
Notes:
- For extra heat, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Rotisserie chicken works well for a quick prep.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and knife
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican
Serving: 6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade chicken tortilla soup is packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 480 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chicken tortilla soup with fresh side dishes, like a crisp avocado salad or roasted corn on the cob. For perfect pairings, I often serve warm cornbread or garlicky tortilla chips alongside it. Don’t forget toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream to make it even more satisfying!
Fresh Side Dishes
When it comes to rounding out your chicken tortilla soup, I’m all about adding fresh, vibrant sides that’ll make the meal pop. A crisp salad combo, like a mix of romaine, cherry tomatoes, and avocado, adds an invigorating crunch. For a lighter option, try a fruit platter—sliced pineapple, watermelon, and grapes bring a sweet contrast that’s perfect between spoonfuls of soup. These sides not only balance the flavors but also make the table look lively. I love how easy they are to throw together, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends.
Perfect Pairings
A steaming bowl of chicken tortilla soup calls for the right companions to make the meal truly complete. For wine choices, I love pairing it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio—they balance the soup’s richness beautifully. If beer’s more your style, go for a revitalizing lager or a citrusy ale; they complement the spices perfectly. I also enjoy serving it with warm cornbread or a side of guacamole and chips for crunch. Sometimes, I’ll add a simple green salad for freshness. These pairings elevate the soup, making it a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
