Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup: 5 Ways to Elevate Comfort

Name: Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup: 5 Ways to Elevate Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips for topping; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Avocado slices (optional)

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Mexican chicken tortilla soup to wrap you in a cozy hug! Whenever I make this soup, it instantly transports me to my favorite little Mexican restaurant, where the aroma of spices fills the air. It’s hearty, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy—perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a little comfort food magic. Plus, it comes together in no time, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this soup on repeat. The best part? You can throw in whatever you have on hand and it still turns out delicious. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

mexican chicken tortilla soup - detail 1

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s gather what we need for this delicious Mexican chicken tortilla soup! Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a pot of this comforting goodness:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips for topping
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Avocado slices (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It’ll make the process so much smoother! And don’t worry if you don’t have one of these ingredients; this soup is super flexible!

How to Prepare Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

Now, let’s dive into the delightful process of making this Mexican chicken tortilla soup! I promise it’s easier than you think, and the end result is just so rewarding. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a steaming pot of goodness ready to enjoy in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sautéing the Base

First things first, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally. You want to sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is super important because it builds the foundation of flavor for your soup, so don’t rush it!

Combining Ingredients

Once your onion and garlic are perfectly sautéed, it’s time to bring in the stars of the show! Add the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all), drained black beans, and corn to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to combine. This is where the magic starts to happen, and your kitchen will begin to smell incredible!

Flavoring the Soup

Now, let’s amp up the flavor! Stir in the shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. I love to taste as I go, so feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. This is your soup, after all! Mix everything together until well combined.

Simmering

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. And that’s it! Your soup is almost ready to serve!

Nutritional Information

Before we dig in, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this Mexican chicken tortilla soup! Now, keep in mind that nutrition can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are just typical estimates. Each bowl is packed with flavor while still being relatively light on calories, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal.

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 25g

So, there you have it! A comforting bowl of soup that’s not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. Enjoy every spoonful, knowing you’re treating yourself right!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why this Mexican chicken tortilla soup is a must-make in your kitchen! It’s not just about the flavors—though trust me, they’re incredible—it’s also about how easy and comforting this dish is. Here are a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for it:

Quick prep and cook time: You can have this delicious soup on the table in just 45 minutes! Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours cooking.
Hearty and filling: With shredded chicken, beans, and corn, this soup is a meal in itself! It satisfies hunger without weighing you down.
Packed with flavor: The blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and that lovely chicken broth creates a symphony of flavors that will warm your soul. Each spoonful is a burst of deliciousness!
Easy to customize for dietary needs: Whether you’re looking to make it vegetarian, spice it up, or throw in some additional veggies, this soup is super versatile. You can make it your own!

Honestly, once you try it, you’ll be wondering how you ever lived without this delightful soup in your life!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Mexican chicken tortilla soup turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some of my favorite tips that I swear by:

Adjust the spices: Feel free to tweak the cumin and chili powder to match your personal taste. If you love it spicy, add a dash of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños! And if you prefer a milder flavor, hold back on the chili powder.
Use rotisserie chicken: For a super quick and easy option, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It shreds beautifully and saves you time—plus, it’s packed with flavor!
Add lime juice: Squeezing fresh lime juice into your soup right before serving adds such a bright, zesty punch! It really elevates the flavors and brings everything together beautifully.
Experiment with toppings: Don’t be shy about adding all your favorite toppings! From creamy avocado slices to crunchy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro, these little garnishes can take your soup to the next level.
Let it rest: If you can, let the soup sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows all the flavors to meld together even more, making every bite even more delicious!

With these tips, you’ll be a Mexican chicken tortilla soup pro in no time! Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish!

Variations

One of the best things about Mexican chicken tortilla soup is how wonderfully flexible it is! You can easily mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Swap the beans: While black beans are a classic choice, why not try kidney beans or pinto beans for a different flavor and texture? You could even use chickpeas for a twist!
Add extra veggies: Sneak in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to boost the nutrition and add more colors to your soup! Just toss them in with the onions and garlic while sautéing.
Spice it up: If you’re craving something with a kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also use smoked paprika for a lovely smoky depth that really enhances the overall flavor.
Make it creamy: For a richer soup, stir in a dollop of sour cream or some cream cheese just before serving. It’ll add a lovely creaminess that balances out the spices beautifully!
Go vegetarian: Replace the chicken with a combo of hearty veggies or use tofu for a plant-based version that still delivers on flavor! You can also add more beans to keep it filling.
Herb it up: Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or even a bit of fresh basil can introduce new flavors. Just sprinkle them in towards the end of cooking for a fragrant finish!

These variations can help keep your Mexican chicken tortilla soup exciting and new every time you make it! Feel free to get creative and make it your very own masterpiece. Enjoy the adventure in your kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious Mexican chicken tortilla soup simmering away, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal that’ll have everyone raving! I love to pair this hearty soup with a few simple sides that complement its flavors beautifully.

Crusty bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some homemade cornbread is the perfect companion for scooping up that flavorful broth. Just imagine tearing off a piece and dipping it into the soup—heavenly!
Fresh salad: A light, refreshing salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the richness of the soup. It’s a great way to balance the meal!
Cheesy quesadillas: For a fun twist, serve up some cheesy quesadillas on the side. Just fill tortillas with cheese and any additional fillings you love, grill until crispy, and slice them up for dipping in the soup!
Guacamole and chips: You can’t go wrong with some creamy guacamole and crunchy tortilla chips. They add a delightful texture and extra flavor that pairs perfectly with the soup!
Mexican rice: A side of seasoned Mexican rice works wonders, soaking up the delicious broth and making your meal even more satisfying. Plus, it’s an easy dish to whip up!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress! Each side brings something unique to the table, making your comforting soup experience even better. Enjoy every bite and happy dining!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of your Mexican chicken tortilla soup! Trust me, you’ll want to savor this goodness for days. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

Storing leftovers: Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This keeps it from steaming, which can make it soggy. It’ll last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner later in the week!
Freezing: If you want to save some for a later date, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to leave a little space in the container for expansion. It freezes well for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Now, when it comes to reheating, you want to make sure it tastes just as good as the first time:

Stovetop reheating: Pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir it occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup seems a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. It should be steaming hot in about 10 minutes!
Microwave reheating: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate to avoid splatters. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. Always be careful, as microwave heating can create hot spots!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Mexican chicken tortilla soup long after the first bowl! Trust me, it’ll be just as comforting the next time around. 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.