Dinner Recipes

February 4, 2026

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: 7 Steps to Cozy Delight

Name: Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: 7 Steps to Cozy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips for serving; Avocado, diced for garnish; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

35 Views • 7 min read

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: 7 Steps to Cozy Delight

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Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried my Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe yet, you’re in for a real treat! This soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, and it’s packed with flavor. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma filled the kitchen, and we all couldn’t wait to dig in. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and those crispy tortilla strips on top? Just divine! It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet light enough to enjoy on any occasion. Trust me, this is the kind of soup that brings everyone together, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering of friends. You won’t want to miss out on this deliciousness!

Ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie for ease!)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips, for serving (store-bought or homemade)
1 avocado, diced, for garnish
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Prepare Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

First things first, let’s get that olive oil sizzling! Heat it in a large pot over medium heat. You want to hear that lovely sizzle when you add your veggies.
Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Seriously, this is the part where your kitchen starts to smell amazing!
Now, add the minced garlic and stir it around for just a minute. You don’t want it to burn, so keep an eye on it!
Time to bring in the big guns! Pour in the diced tomatoes (including the juices), chicken broth, shredded chicken, and black beans. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Bring this delicious mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully!
Once the time’s up, give it a taste. Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve it hot. Top each bowl with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. You won’t believe how good it looks and tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Quick to prepare – You can whip this up in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavorful and hearty – Every spoonful is bursting with bold flavors that will warm your soul.
Healthy and gluten-free – Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a nutritious option that everyone can enjoy.
Customizable with toppings – Get creative! You can add anything from cheese to jalapeños for that extra kick.

Tips for Success with Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Alright, let’s talk tips! First off, don’t skimp on the seasoning—it makes all the difference! A good pinch of salt and a generous dash of pepper elevate the flavors. If you like it spicy, feel free to add a bit of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

Using rotisserie chicken is a game changer for this soup; it saves time and adds great flavor. If you have leftover chicken from a previous meal, that’s perfect too! Just shred it up and toss it in.

And don’t forget about garnishes! They not only add a pop of color but also texture. Crispy tortilla strips, fresh avocado, and cilantro bring the whole dish to life. Trust me, these little touches will make your Chicken Tortilla Soup shine!

Variations of Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

One of the best things about my Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. For instance, try using different beans like pinto or kidney beans if you’re in the mood for a change. Want to spice it up? Add some chipotle peppers for a smoky flavor or throw in a pinch of smoked paprika for that extra depth!

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not mix in some corn for a sweet crunch? You can also swap the chicken for shredded beef or turkey if you prefer. Toppings are where you can really unleash your creativity! Crumbled queso fresco, sliced radishes, or a dollop of sour cream can take your soup to the next level. The possibilities are endless—so have fun experimenting!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

This Chicken Tortilla Soup is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better when paired with some delicious sides! I love serving it alongside warm, cheesy quesadillas—there’s just something about that gooey melted cheese that complements the soup perfectly. You can also whip up some simple Mexican rice to soak up all those flavors or even a fresh side salad with a zesty lime dressing to brighten up the meal.

If you’re in the mood for a little crunch, crispy tortilla chips with guacamole make for an excellent appetizer. And don’t forget a refreshing drink! A chilled glass of horchata or a classic margarita can really elevate your dining experience. Trust me, these pairings will turn your hearty soup into a full-on fiesta!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Now, let’s talk nutrition! This Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also packed with good stuff. Each serving is estimated to have about 350 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy option. You’ll get around 10 grams of fat and 25 grams of protein, which is fantastic for keeping you full and satisfied. Plus, it has about 40 grams of carbs and a good dose of fiber at 10 grams, thanks to those lovely beans and veggies! Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but they give you a great idea of what you’re enjoying in each bowl!

FAQ Section about Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! This Chicken Tortilla Soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup? Yes, you can! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

What can I use instead of chicken? If you want to switch things up, feel free to use shredded beef or turkey, or even go vegetarian by using roasted veggies or tofu. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How spicy is this soup? It’s mild to medium, but you can easily customize the heat level! Add more chili powder or toss in some jalapeños or hot sauce if you like it fiery.

Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Zucchini, corn, or even spinach can be fantastic additions. Just remember to chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them in during the sautéing step to ensure they cook through.

What do you think?

Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!