There's something genuinely comforting about a bowl of hot, steaming chicken tortilla soup. Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, this dish has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of people around the globe, thanks to its hearty ingredients and vibrant flavors. Today, we delve deep into making an easy chicken tortilla soup recipe that you can prepare in your own kitchen, perfect for any meal or gathering.
Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup
To begin with, let’s gather all the ingredients for our chicken tortilla soup recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 6 cups of chicken broth
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup of corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime juice to taste
For Garnishes:
- Tortilla chips, crushed or tortilla strips
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Avocado, diced
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lime wedges
The Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
With all the ingredients at hand, let’s start cooking our delicious chicken tortilla soup.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Make sure your onion, garlic, and jalapeño are all finely chopped. If using fresh chicken, shred it now.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic and jalapeño, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Stir in the chili powder and cumin, letting the spices toast in the pan for about a minute. This step enhances the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Base
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for a couple of minutes until the tomatoes soften and the liquid is slightly reduced.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the chicken broth, black beans, and corn to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Add the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and a splash of lime juice. Simmer for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Garnishing and Serving
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, and top with:
- Crushed tortilla chips or strips
- Avocado slices
- Fresh cilantro
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Cheese
- A wedge of lime for a fresh zest
😌 Note: For a thicker soup, you might want to blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken. It creates a creamier consistency without any cream or dairy.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here are some tips to elevate your homemade chicken tortilla soup to restaurant quality:
- Homemade Broth: Use homemade chicken stock if possible; it’s richer in flavor than store-bought.
- Avocado Oil: Using avocado oil for sautéing gives a unique flavor and is healthier.
- Fresh Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens the soup; bottled juice just won’t do the trick.
- Homemade Tortilla Strips: For an extra touch, cut corn tortillas into thin strips, fry them until crispy, and use them as a garnish instead of store-bought chips.
Customizing Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken tortilla soup is incredibly versatile:
- Vegetarian? Skip the chicken and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Spice lovers can add more jalapeños or incorporate other chilies for a kick.
- For an even heartier meal, try adding cooked rice or quinoa to the soup.
Preparing a homemade chicken tortilla soup is more than just a culinary task; it's a journey through flavors and textures that bring comfort and joy. This easy recipe lets you whip up a delicious meal that can be adapted to suit any palate or dietary requirement. Remember, the beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility; you can make it your own by tweaking the ingredients or garnishes. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with family, friends, or as a cozy treat for yourself. By varying the ingredients, you'll never feel like you're having the same soup twice, ensuring that this dish remains a favorite in your meal rotation.
Can I make this soup in advance?
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Yes, chicken tortilla soup can be made in advance. In fact, the flavors often deepen over time. Just prepare the soup without the garnishes, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve. Add fresh garnishes like avocado, lime, and tortilla strips just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
What if I want to make it spicier or milder?
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To adjust the heat level, simply increase or decrease the amount of jalapeño, chili powder, or add other peppers like serranos or habaneros for more heat. For a milder soup, you can even remove the seeds from the jalapeño or omit it entirely.
Can chicken tortilla soup be frozen?
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Yes, the soup freezes well without the garnishes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add garnishes fresh after thawing and reheating the soup for the best texture.
