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Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup
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Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and crispy toasted tortilla strips. This flavorful soup combines smoky, spicy, and savory notes with a zesty finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal shared with friends. Easy to customize and packed with nutrients, it offers a warm bowl of satisfaction in every spoonful.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Broth and Base

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño or 1-2 chili peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)

Spices

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1–2 tsp chili powder

Vegetables and Toppings

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 1 cup crispy tortilla strips
  • Optional: shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, diced avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño until soft and fragrant, forming the flavorful base of the soup.
  2. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in ground cumin and chili powder, stirring for about a minute to release their aromas. Add the diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to deepen the flavors.
  3. Pour in Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook gently until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Incorporate Corn and Lime: Stir in the corn kernels for a touch of sweetness. Just before serving, squeeze in lime juice to brighten the flavors and balance the rich broth.
  5. Garnish and Add Tortilla Strips: Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro leaves, and optionally shredded cheese or avocado slices for a perfect finish.

Notes

  • Use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor when possible.
  • Season gradually and taste during cooking to keep flavors balanced.
  • Shredding the cooked chicken provides a more uniform texture.
  • Toast tortillas before making strips to enhance crispiness and flavor for topping.
  • Add avocado last to keep it fresh and prevent browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tortilla Soup, chicken soup, tortilla soup, gluten free soup, southwestern soup, easy soup recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/chicken-tortilla-soup/