Imagine a soup so incredible that it transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico with just one spoonful! This Chicken Tortilla Soup isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with the comfort of a hearty, soul-warming dish. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food lover, this recipe promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in cumin and chili powder, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release their aromatic oils and enhance the flavor profile.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare tortilla strips by cutting corn tortillas into thin strips and either baking or frying until crisp and golden.
- When the soup is ready, ladle it into serving bowls. Top each serving with crispy tortilla strips and a generous spoonful of fresh salsa.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream for additional flavor complexity.
- Serve hot, ensuring each bowl has a mix of tender chicken, flavorful broth, crispy tortilla strips, and fresh salsa.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth to elevate the soup's taste profile.
- When sautéing onions and garlic, watch the heat carefully to prevent burning—golden and translucent is your goal.
- To make crispy tortilla strips, cut them uniformly and bake at 375°F for a healthier option, or quickly fry in hot oil for extra crunch.
- Don't rush the simmering process—letting the soup cook slowly allows the spices to fully develop and marry together.
- For a meal prep hack, you can shred chicken in advance or use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Customize your soup with additional toppings like diced avocado, fresh jalapeños, or a sprinkle of queso fresco for extra excitement.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add a dash of hot sauce or increase the chili powder to suit your heat preference.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
