Chicken Tortilla Soup: 5 Heartwarming Ingredients to Try

September 26, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love for chicken tortilla soup! It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. Picture this: a big, steaming bowl of rich broth filled with tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, and sweet corn, all dancing together with spices like chili powder and cumin. I remember the first time I made this soup for my family on a chilly evening. The aroma filled the house, and they couldn’t wait to dig in! What sets this recipe apart is how customizable it is—throw in extra veggies if you like or crank up the spice level to your preference. Trust me, it’s a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that you’ll keep coming back to again and again!

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Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious chicken tortilla soup. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing out those comforting, robust flavors. Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking!

1 lb chicken breast (cooked and shredded) – I usually poach mine beforehand; it keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
1 can black beans (rinsed and drained) – These add a nice protein punch and a lovely texture. Don’t skip the rinsing; it helps remove excess sodium!
1 can corn (drained) – Sweet corn brings a delightful pop of sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
1 can diced tomatoes – I love using fire-roasted ones for an extra layer of flavor, but regular diced tomatoes work great too.
4 cups chicken broth – Homemade is always best, but store-bought works in a pinch. Just make sure it’s low-sodium if you’re watching salt!
1 onion (chopped) – A staple for building flavor. I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness.
2 cloves garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic is a game changer in this recipe; it adds that wonderful aromatic depth.
1 tsp chili powder – This is where the warmth comes from! Adjust to your taste if you like it spicier.
1 tsp cumin – It brings a nutty, earthy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go; it’s the best way to get the seasoning just right!
Tortilla chips for topping – Crunchy and salty, they’re perfect for scooping up the soup.
Chopped cilantro for garnish – A fresh touch that brightens up the whole dish.
Lime wedges for serving – A squeeze of lime right before you dig in adds such a refreshing zing!

How to Prepare Chicken Tortilla Soup

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this scrumptious chicken tortilla soup! I promise it’s easier than you think, and the end result is so rewarding. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal that warms the soul!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil (I love olive oil for this) and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent, then add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute—oh, the aroma is just heavenly!
Next, it’s time to add the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir everything together so that the flavors mingle. This is where the magic happens!
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give it another good stir to combine all those delicious spices. I like to taste at this point; adjust the seasoning if you want a little more kick!
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to deepen and develop. You can feel the anticipation building, right?
Once it’s done simmering, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with crunchy tortilla chips, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Trust me, that last touch makes all the difference!

And there you have it—your comforting chicken tortilla soup is ready to be devoured! Enjoy every spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken tortilla soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Here are a few reasons why you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe:

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
Full of Flavor: The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and savory chicken creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein from the chicken and black beans, plus fiber from the corn and tomatoes, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.
Customizable: Don’t be afraid to throw in your favorite veggies or adjust the spices. This soup is a blank canvas just waiting for your personal touch!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights—just heat and enjoy!
Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchy tortilla chips and vibrant flavors, making it a hit with the whole family!

Tips for Success

Want to take your chicken tortilla soup to the next level? Here are some of my favorite pro tips to ensure perfection every time!

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even faster option, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. Just shred it and toss it in—so easy!
Adjust the Heat: If you love a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can always start mild and add more heat as you go!
Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. They’ll blend right in and add great texture.
Top It Off: Don’t forget the toppings! Avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the flavors and create a delightful contrast.
Let It Sit: If you can, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking. The flavors meld together beautifully, making each spoonful even more delicious!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a chicken tortilla soup that impresses every time!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Before we dive into enjoying this scrumptious chicken tortilla soup, I want to give you a little heads-up about the nutritional information. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve provided some typical values, they’re just estimates!

On average, one bowl of this hearty soup contains around 350 calories, with about 8 grams of fat and 25 grams of protein. You’ll also find about 50 grams of carbohydrates and 10 grams of fiber, making it a satisfying and nourishing option. Just remember, your results may vary, but one thing’s for sure—this soup is packed with goodness!

FAQ About Chicken Tortilla Soup

Got questions about chicken tortilla soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you master this comforting dish.

Can I make chicken tortilla soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just toss all the ingredients (except for the tortilla chips and toppings) into the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. It’s a great way to let those flavors meld together while you go about your day!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just add the frozen chicken breasts directly into the pot with the other ingredients and increase the cooking time a bit. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before shredding it!

What can I serve with chicken tortilla soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside creamy garlic parmesan pasta for a complete meal. Yum!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for extra beans or grilled veggies and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still have a hearty and delicious soup that everyone will love!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover chicken tortilla soup is super easy! Just let the soup cool down to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It’ll keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container since the soup will expand as it freezes.

When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious leftovers, reheating is a breeze! Simply pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’re in a rush, you can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl—just cover it loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Don’t forget to add those toppings fresh before serving for that extra crunch and flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got a big, comforting bowl of chicken tortilla soup, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to take your meal to the next level! These pairings will complement the rich flavors of the soup and create a delightful dining experience:

Crunchy Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth!
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with lime vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the hearty soup.
Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with your favorite veggies or meats make a satisfying side.
Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips is always a hit and enhances that Mexican flair!
Margaritas: For a fun drink option, a classic margarita pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the soup.

These options are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making for a completely enjoyable meal. Happy eating!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.