Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Ready in 30 Minutes

As the cooler weather arrives, a warm bowl of chicken tortilla soup is perfect. It brings back memories of cozy family times and Mexican flavors. Now, I’m excited to share a quick recipe that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is great for busy nights or when you want a tasty meal. It’s filled with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and spices. It’s a comfort food that will make your taste buds happy.

The Ultimate Mexican-Inspired Comfort Soup

Chicken tortilla soup is a favorite in Mexico. It mixes tender chicken, tomatoes, and corn tortillas. This recipe is a comforting and satisfying traditional soup experience.

Origins of Chicken Tortilla Soup

The Aztec and Mayan civilizations first made chicken tortilla soup. It was a key part of their comfort food diets. Over time, Spanish and other international flavors were added, making it the Mexican cuisine we love today.

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken tortilla soup recipe is a perfect mix of authentic flavors and quick prep. It uses 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder. The addition of 3 skinless boneless chicken breasts, black beans, and corn adds substance and texture. It’s a true comfort food delight.

The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying Mexican cuisine comfort food meal.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup

To make a delicious chicken tortilla soup, you need to pick the right ingredients. Start with low-sodium chicken broth as the base. Add diced tomatoes for depth and black beans and corn for texture.

Shredded chicken is crucial for flavor. Use spices like chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to enhance it. Fresh onion, jalapeño, and garlic add zesty notes. A squeeze of lime juice and cilantro finish it off with a fresh touch.

For the final touches, add crunchy corn tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes boost the soup’s authenticity and texture.

With these key ingredients, you can make a chicken tortilla soup that’s both authentic and delicious. It will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings for Mexican comfort food.

“The secret to an amazing chicken tortilla soup lies in achieving the ideal harmony of flavors and textures. This recipe nails it!”

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. The main item is a large Dutch oven or stockpot with 6 to 7-quart capacity. This big pot lets you easily make the soup base and simmer all ingredients together.

Required Cookware

• Large Dutch oven or stockpot (6 to 7-quart capacity)
• Baking sheet for making homemade tortilla strips

Optional but Helpful Tools

1. Immersion blender for pureeing the soup base
2. Regular blender as an alternative to the immersion blender
3. Sharp knife for chopping vegetables and herbs

These tools and equipment make preparing Chicken Tortilla Soup easy and enjoyable. The Dutch oven or stockpot is crucial. The optional tools can make the cooking process smoother.

How to Make Homemade Tortilla Strips

Make your chicken tortilla soup even better with homemade crispy tortilla strips. These corn tortilla chips add a crunchy texture and authentic Mexican flavor. Follow these easy steps to make your own batch of corn tortillas for the ultimate garnish.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, cut 10 small corn tortillas into 1/4-inch wide strips.
3. In a large bowl, toss the tortilla strips with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt until they’re evenly coated.
4. Spread the oiled and seasoned tortilla strips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
5. Bake the crispy tortilla strips for 15-18 minutes, flipping them halfway, until they’re golden brown and crisp.
6. Remove the baked strips from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

These homemade corn tortilla strips are perfect for your chicken tortilla soup. They add texture and authentic flavor. You can store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This way, you always have them ready to make your soup better.

Enjoy your homemade crispy tortilla strips as a delightful garnish for your chicken tortilla soup. It will take your soup to a whole new level.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making Chicken Tortilla Soup is easy and rewarding. This results in a dish that is both comforting and bursting with flavor. Follow these steps to make a true Mexican-inspired soup.

Preparing the Base

Begin by cooking diced onion, minced jalapeño, and garlic in olive oil. This step lays the groundwork for the soup’s rich taste.

Adding Main Ingredients

After the vegetables are soft, add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken, and corn. Squeeze in lime juice for a fresh touch. Mix in cumin, chili powder, and oregano for that Mexican flavor.

Let it boil, then lower the heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes. This lets the flavors blend perfectly.

Final Seasoning Tips

Finally, add fresh cilantro and taste. You might need more salt, pepper, or spices. For a smoother soup, blend some with an immersion blender.

Present the soup hot, topped with tortilla strips, jalapeños, avocado, cheese, and sour cream. Share this delicious, authentic Mexican-inspired dish with loved ones.

Time-Saving Tips and Shortcuts

Preparing a tasty rotisserie chicken tortilla soup quickly is key. Luckily, there are many shortcuts to make this meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a big time-saver. Just shred the meat and add it to the soup for a protein boost. You can also use canned black beans and corn to make prep work even quicker.

For a quicker version, skip making tortilla strips. Use store-bought tortilla chips instead. This saves time without losing flavor or texture.

Another tip is to use pre-chopped vegetables. Look for pre-diced onions, bell peppers, and more to reduce chopping time.

With these quick prep strategies, you can make a delicious rotisserie chicken tortilla soup fast. It’s perfect for hectic weeknights or when surprise guests show up.

“Meal planning and preparation are key to getting a healthy, delicious dinner on the table without losing your sanity.”
– Tonya Kubo, co-host of Clutter-Free Academy

Having the right canned ingredients and tools is crucial. With a bit of planning and these tips, you’ll enjoy a comforting chicken tortilla soup soon.

Perfect Garnishes and Toppings

Make your homemade chicken tortilla soup even better with the right garnishes and toppings. These add-ons not only boost the flavor but also make your dish look and feel great. You can stick with traditional choices or try something new to elevate your soup.

Traditional Garnishes

Begin with the classics: avocado garnish, fresh cilantro garnish, and a squeeze of lime wedges. These toppings bring a fresh taste and a bit of acidity to balance the soup’s richness. Don’t forget to add some shredded cheese toppings like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a creamy finish.

Creative Topping Ideas

For more texture and flavor, try crushed tortilla chips, sliced radishes, or pickled red onions. A dollop of homemade guacamole or a swirl of sour cream can also make your soup better. If you’re feeling bold, top it with sliced jalapeños or crumbled queso fresco for a spicy touch.

Remember, the fun is in trying new things. By mixing and matching garnishes and toppings, you can turn your chicken tortilla soup into a flavorful masterpiece. Every bite will be a delight.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store your homemade chicken tortilla soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s great for meal prep. It can also be frozen for up to six months. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat it.

For the best taste, store the soup and toppings separately. This keeps tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and other garnishes fresh. Reheating them together can make the tortilla chips soggy.

Enjoying leftovers for lunch or dinner? This chicken tortilla soup is perfect. Its bold Mexican flavors and hearty ingredients make it comforting. You can enjoy it for days.

FAQ

What is the key difference between this chicken tortilla soup recipe and other Mexican-inspired soups?

This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal. It has tender chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty spices in a flavorful broth. It’s topped with crispy tortilla strips and garnishes.

What are the essential ingredients for making this chicken tortilla soup?

You’ll need low-sodium chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Shredded cooked chicken and corn tortillas are also key. Spices like chili powder and cumin add depth. Fresh ingredients like onion and lime juice enhance the taste.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this soup?

A large Dutch oven or stockpot is needed. A baking sheet is required for tortilla strips. Optional tools include an immersion blender and a sharp knife for chopping.

How do you make the homemade tortilla strips for this recipe?

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut tortillas into strips, toss with olive oil and salt. Bake for 15-18 minutes until crispy. These strips add texture and authenticity.

What are some time-saving tips and shortcuts for this chicken tortilla soup recipe?

To save time, use a rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken. Choose canned black beans and corn for quick prep. Pre-chopped veggies can also save time. For a quicker version, use store-bought tortilla chips.

What are some popular garnishes and toppings for chicken tortilla soup?

Traditional garnishes include avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges. Sour cream and jalapeños are also popular. Try crushed tortilla chips or pickled red onions for something different.

How long can this chicken tortilla soup be stored and reheated?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for 5 to 7 days. Freeze for up to 6 months. Reheat gently and add fresh toppings and tortilla strips just before serving.