The Best Homemade Tortilla Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade tortilla soup is a comforting bowl of flavor that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s simple to make yet packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you craving more. You’ll love how the crispy tortilla strips add a satisfying crunch, while the blend of spices gives it just the right amount of kick. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or a squeeze of lime to make it your own. And the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade tortilla soup, a flavorful Mexican classic that’s easy to make and packed with fresh ingredients. This recipe combines tender chicken, savory broth, and crispy tortilla strips for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cumin and chili powder, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then bring to a boil.
- Add chicken breasts, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in corn, black beans, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread tortilla strips on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy tortilla strips and optional toppings.
Notes:
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth.
Equipment:
Large pot, baking sheet, knife, cutting board, measuring spoons
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes, Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
Mexican
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade tortilla soup is packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love adding fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges to my tortilla soup—they make it even more flavorful. Pairing it with warm tortilla chips or a side of Mexican rice really completes the meal. A cold glass of horchata or a crisp beer can also be perfect for balancing the soup’s rich taste.
Fresh Toppings & Sides
A handful of crispy tortilla strips adds a satisfying crunch to every spoonful of this homemade soup. I love crumbling a few tortilla chips over the top for extra texture—it’s like a flavor explosion in every bite. Sliced avocado is another must-have; its creaminess balances the soup’s spice perfectly. I’ll sometimes add a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for richness, and a squeeze of lime brightens everything up. Fresh cilantro brings a pop of color and freshness, too. It’s all about layering flavors and textures, making each bowl feel special and completely customizable to your taste.
Complementary Beverages
When whipping up a batch of homemade tortilla soup, you’ll want a drink that complements its bold, spicy flavors without overpowering them. I love pairing it with a light, citrusy herbal tea, like chamomile or lemongrass—it soothes the palate and balances the heat. For coffee pairings, I go for a smooth, medium roast; its warmth enhances the soup’s richness without clashing. If you’re feeling fancy, a chilled hibiscus tea adds a revitalizing tang. Personally, I always keep it simple but thoughtful—these drinks don’t steal the show, but they do make every spoonful of soup even more enjoyable.
