Best Chicken Tortilla Soup

Best Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and comforting Mexican-inspired dish that brings warmth to any table. Featuring tender shredded chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and sweet corn, this soup is perfectly balanced with zesty lime and a hint of smoky spice. Finished with crunchy, homemade tortilla strips, it is a hearty meal that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

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The secret to this soup's depth is the combination of fire-roasted tomatoes and a blend of traditional seasonings. As the chicken simmers in the broth, it becomes incredibly tender, making it easy to shred and soak up the surrounding flavors. Each bowl is a delightful mix of textures, especially when topped with the sharp contrast of crispy tortillas and creamy avocado.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 can (400 g) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 liter (4 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional Toppings: Sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, extra lime wedges

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Toss tortilla strips with olive oil and spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in chili powder, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.

Step 5

Add chicken breasts, fire-roasted tomatoes (with juice), corn, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

Step 6

Remove chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return to the pot.

Step 7

Add lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8

Discard bay leaf. Ladle soup into bowls, top with tortilla strips and desired toppings.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For those who prefer a spicier soup, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. If you are in a hurry, you can substitute the chicken breasts with a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which will significantly reduce the simmering time needed.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily create a vegetarian version of this soup by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. To maintain the heartiness and protein content, adding a can of black beans is a delicious and simple modification.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this hearty soup with warm tortillas or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. Garnish each bowl generously with sliced avocado, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for a truly indulgent experience.

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With its vibrant colors and bold, zestful profile, Best Chicken Tortilla Soup is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Whether you're feeding the family on a Tuesday night or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this easy-to-make soup is certain to be a success. Enjoy the perfect crunch in every spoonful!

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Recipe FAQ

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors actually improve overnight. Prepare the soup and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add fresh tortilla strips and cilantro when serving to maintain crunch.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Replace chicken with extra black beans or diced butternut squash. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The spices and fire-roasted tomatoes provide plenty of depth without meat.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely. Cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Tortilla strips should be made fresh when serving.

→ How do I make it spicier?

Leave seeds in the jalapeño, add diced fresh poblano peppers, or incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for individual customization.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, this creates a great shortcut version. Skip the simmering step for raw chicken and add shredded rotisserie meat during the last 5-10 minutes just to heat through. Reduce broth slightly if needed.