Name: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 6 cups chicken stock (or chicken broth); 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1-2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5-ounce, drained); 1 can corn (14.5-ounce, drained); 1 can black beans (15.25-ounce, drained and rinsed); 1 can diced green chiles (4-ounce); ½ cup chopped onion (optional); 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1½ teaspoons salt; ¾ teaspoons pepper; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ¼ teaspoon chili powder; to taste corn tortilla strips

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Whenever I think of comfort food, Chicken Tortilla Soup instantly comes to mind. It evokes memories of chilly evenings spent huddled around the dining table with loved ones, savoring every warming spoonful. I remember the first time I made this soup; I was trying to impress my family during a winter gathering. The aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely irresistible! As the chicken simmered with spices, I could hardly wait to serve it. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings everyone together. From the crispy tortilla strips to the creamy toppings, each bite is a delicious reminder of the warmth and joy of sharing good food. This soup has become a staple in our household, and honestly, I can’t imagine a winter without it. If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, the Chicken Tortilla Soup is where it’s at.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
3 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
180 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Crock Pot, Crock Pot Liners

Why We Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup

It’s Comforting

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup. The mix of chicken, spices, and fresh toppings creates a symphony of flavors that wrap you in a warm embrace. I love how it’s the perfect antidote to a long day, inviting you to sit down, relax, and enjoy every spoonful.

Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is a true canvas for your culinary creativity. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you love most. Whether you want it spicier with jalapeños or creamier with extra cheese, the Chicken Tortilla Soup can be tailored to fit your taste perfectly.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of my favorite aspects of this soup is how well it holds up in the fridge. It’s a meal prep dream! You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and it only gets better as the flavors meld. Just heat it up, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time!

Great for Gatherings

If you’re hosting friends or family, a pot of Chicken Tortilla Soup is bound to impress. It’s an easy dish to prepare in advance, and you can set out toppings for guests to customize their bowls. Everyone loves the interactive aspect of adding their favorite crunch and creaminess!

A Family Tradition

Over time, this soup has become a family tradition in our home. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories created around the table. Each bowl tells a story, and I cherish the laughter and conversations that accompany it. It’s a timeless dish that binds us together.

Ingredients to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup

When it comes to the ingredients for Chicken Tortilla Soup, each component plays a vital role in creating the comforting, rich flavor that we all love. The base of chicken stock adds depth, while the shredded chicken brings heartiness. Fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro brighten up every bowl, making it a well-rounded dish.

6 cups chicken stock or chicken broth: This serves as the flavorful foundation of the soup. It’s what brings all the ingredients together and creates the deliciously warm broth that’s so comforting.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star of the show, adding protein and making the soup filling. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut!
1-2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, drained: Tomatoes add acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the chicken and broth.
1 (14.5-ounce) can corn, drained: Sweet and crunchy, corn brings a lovely texture to the soup.
1 (15.25-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: These legumes provide heartiness and a dose of fiber, making each bowl satisfying.
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles: For a touch of heat and flavor, these chiles bring a southwestern kick to the soup.
½ cup chopped onion, optional: Sautéing onions first can enhance the flavor profile, but feel free to leave them out if desired.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Garlic infuses the soup with aromatic goodness that elevates the overall flavor.
1½ teaspoons salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors in the soup.
¾ teaspoon pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and balance.
½ teaspoon ground cumin: This spice adds earthy undertones that deepen the taste experience.
¼ teaspoon chili powder: For an extra layer of flavor and a hint of heat.
corn tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade), sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped avocado, chopped fresh cilantro (optional): These toppings allow for personalization and add delightful textures right before serving.

The Process for Making Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making Chicken Tortilla Soup is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. You’ll love how straightforward it is, yet it yields such a rich, flavorful result. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a pot of deliciousness ready in no time!

Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s essential to have everything ready to make the process smoother. In your slow cooker, combine all the ingredients except for the toppings: the chicken stock, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, diced green chiles, onion (if using), minced garlic, salt, pepper, ground cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to mix everything together.
Set your slow cooker to low and cover it. Let it cook for about 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high and cook for 3 to 4 hours instead. This longer cook time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and soak up all those amazing spices.
As the soup cooks, you’ll notice the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. Take a moment to enjoy the anticipation! When it’s nearing the end of the cooking time, you might want to taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt or a squeeze of lime can brighten up those flavors.
Once it’s ready, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and invite your favorite toppings to join the party. Add cheese, sour cream, and tortilla strips for that perfect crunch. You can also sprinkle on some chopped avocado and cilantro for added freshness.
Lastly, gather your friends and family around the table. Encourage everyone to customize their bowls with toppings, making it an interactive meal. Enjoy the warmth and love that comes with every spoonful of your homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup!

Things Worth Knowing

Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, feel free to add more chicken stock to reach your desired consistency.
Make it Spicy: For an extra kick, include some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper when cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables for a more vibrant flavor profile.
Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Stovetop Alternative: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make this soup on the stovetop by simmering all ingredients in a large pot for about 20 to 30 minutes.

Tips for Success

To make the most out of your Chicken Tortilla Soup, here are some essential tips to keep in mind. These will help ensure delicious results every time!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze for up to four months. Just make sure to leave out toppings before freezing!
Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: Serve with a fresh green salad or warm bread for a complete meal.
Garnishing: Don’t skip the toppings! They add the perfect finishing touch to your soup.
Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving your Chicken Tortilla Soup can be as fun as making it! There are plenty of pairing suggestions to enhance your meal experience:

Fresh Cornbread: The sweetness and moisture of cornbread complement the spices in the soup perfectly.
Avocado Salad: A simple salad with avocado, lime, and cilantro adds brightness to your meal.
Chips and Salsa: Serve with a side of crispy tortilla chips and fresh salsa for an extra crunch.
Family Dinner: This soup is fantastic for family gatherings, offering a warm and inviting dish that everyone can enjoy.
Game Day: Perfect for parties, it can be a crowd-pleaser during game days when served with a variety of toppings.
Seasonal Variations: During summer, try adding fresh mango or pineapple to give it a tropical twist!

FAQ

Yes, you can use raw chicken! Simply add it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. The chicken will cook thoroughly during the cooking time. However, make sure it’s fully cooked before serving.

To make a vegetarian version of Chicken Tortilla Soup, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can add more beans and vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for added protein and flavor.

Great toppings for Chicken Tortilla Soup include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped avocado, and crispy tortilla strips. You can also add fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days or can be frozen for up to four months. Just make sure to leave out the toppings before freezing!

Conclusion

The Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its hearty ingredients and customizable toppings, it has a way of bringing people together. I encourage you to make it for your next family dinner or gather friends around the table to enjoy a cozy night in. It’s comforting, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your home!