Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect balance of rich flavors and healthy ingredients. With the warmth of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, paired with the brightness of fresh cilantro and lime, it’s a comforting yet light meal that satisfies without weighing you down.

Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this soup will hit the spot. The crispy tortilla strips add the right amount of crunch, and the black beans and corn bring extra flavor and texture to the mix. You can customize it further by adjusting the spice level or adding toppings like avocado or cheese, making it a versatile dish for all tastes.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken breast)

• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup tortilla strips (baked or fried)

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Lime wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Add the corn, black beans, and tortilla strips. Stir and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional spices if needed.

5. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Origin and History of Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup, or “Sopa de Tortilla,” is a staple in Mexican cuisine. The dish’s origins are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been created as a way to use up leftover tortillas. Tortillas, a primary food in Mexican culture, were traditionally cut into strips and fried to create a crunchy base for soups, offering texture and flavor. Over time, the dish evolved and became a popular comfort food that could be enjoyed by all generations.

While there are many variations of Chicken Tortilla Soup, the basic premise of the dish remains the same. It is typically made with a rich, savory broth, spiced with traditional Mexican seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and garlic. The soup is then topped with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime juice for an added burst of flavor. It has become a popular dish not only in Mexico but also in the United States, where many have adopted it as a go-to meal for a warm, satisfying dinner.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tortilla Soup

One of the most appealing aspects of Chicken Tortilla Soup is its health benefits. This version is low in fat, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without compromising on taste. The primary ingredient, chicken, is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. Additionally, chicken provides key nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which contribute to a healthy immune system.

The soup is also packed with fiber and essential vitamins thanks to the inclusion of vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and corn. These vegetables provide antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support immune function. The use of low-sodium chicken broth ensures that the soup remains light and healthy, while still delivering the rich, savory taste that makes it so comforting.

Furthermore, the addition of fresh cilantro and lime juice not only enhances the flavor but also provides additional vitamins and minerals. Cilantro contains antioxidants that promote digestion and support overall health, while lime juice offers a dose of vitamin C, which is crucial for immune system function and skin health.

Flavor Profile of Chicken Tortilla Soup

The flavor profile of Chicken Tortilla Soup is a beautiful blend of savory, spicy, and tangy notes. The combination of chicken broth, tomatoes, green chilies, and spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika creates a warm, rich base that is both comforting and satisfying. The chicken provides a mild, tender protein that absorbs the flavors of the soup, making each bite perfectly balanced.

The toppings – crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime – add a burst of freshness and texture. The crispy strips provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth broth, while the cilantro brings a burst of herbal freshness. A squeeze of lime adds the perfect tang to round out the dish, giving it a refreshing finish that keeps you coming back for more.

This combination of flavors makes Chicken Tortilla Soup incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer it spicier with an extra kick of chili powder or milder with a touch of sweetness from the corn, you can easily adjust the seasonings to your liking. The soup is also adaptable when it comes to toppings. Some people like to add avocado, shredded cheese, or even sour cream, all of which complement the base flavors wonderfully.

Why Chicken Tortilla Soup is Perfect for Meal Prep

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep. It can be made in large batches, stored in the fridge, and easily reheated throughout the week, making it a great option for busy individuals or families. The soup also holds up well to freezing, so you can make a double batch and store half for later use. This is especially convenient for those who want to prepare their meals in advance but still enjoy a homemade, healthy dish throughout the week.

The flavors in Chicken Tortilla Soup actually improve over time as the ingredients continue to meld together. As the soup sits in the fridge, the spices have a chance to infuse the broth, making it even more flavorful when reheated. When you add the crispy tortilla strips just before serving, they maintain their texture, ensuring that every bite is a perfect balance of crunch and comfort.

How to Customize Chicken Tortilla Soup

One of the best things about Chicken Tortilla Soup is how easily it can be customized to fit your dietary preferences or any ingredients you have on hand. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the regular tortilla strips with gluten-free tortillas or omit them altogether. If you’re looking to make the soup vegetarian, simply swap the chicken for beans or another plant-based protein.

You can also adjust the spice level to suit your taste. For a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika, or use a milder variety of chilies. On the other hand, if you love heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or even throw in some jalapeños for an added kick.

Additionally, Chicken Tortilla Soup can be made in a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, set it on low, and let it cook for several hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld even further, creating a deeply savory, rich soup that is well worth the wait.

Conclusion

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the best of comfort food and healthy eating. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a dish to impress guests, this soup is sure to satisfy. Its rich, spicy broth, combined with lean chicken and vegetables, offers the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make, and even easier to customize to suit your dietary needs.

By choosing healthier ingredients and preparing it at home, you can enjoy a guilt-free version of this beloved Mexican soup, making it a great addition to any meal plan. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something warm, comforting, and nutritious, give Chicken Tortilla Soup a try. You won’t regret it!

This simple, satisfying, and delicious recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a flavorful dish without the extra calories. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s destined to become a favorite in your kitchen!