Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: A Warm and Spicy Classic
You love the warmth, savor the spice, and seek the comfort of a classic Chicken Tortilla Soup. This dish goes beyond filling your bowl, offering a rich experience with tender chicken and broth infused with fire-roasted tomatoes and chili powder.
Each ingredient has its nuances, with crispy tortilla strips adding unexpected crunch and enhancing texture. But what makes it truly unforgettable? There's more to discover in perfecting this beloved favorite.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken Tortilla Soup combines a spicy broth with crunchy tortilla strips for a comforting meal.
- The recipe features five main ingredients: chicken breasts, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn tortillas, chili powder, and chicken broth.
- Boil chicken in broth, then add tomatoes, chili powder, and tortillas to thicken the soup.
- Customize with additional spices or toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime for extra flavor.
- Store soup and tortilla strips separately to maintain texture when reheating leftovers.
Recipe
Chicken tortilla soup is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the warmth of a spicy broth with the satisfying crunch of tortilla strips. This simplified version uses just five key ingredients to create a robust and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes and tender shredded chicken forms the base of the soup, while the crispy tortilla strips add texture and depth, making this soup both filling and enjoyable.
The preparation begins with poaching chicken breasts in chicken broth, which not only cooks the chicken but also enriches the broth with its natural flavors. Once the chicken is cooked and shredded, it's combined with fire-roasted tomatoes and a touch of chili powder to create a hearty and spicy soup. The addition of corn tortilla strips both thickens the soup and provides a delightful crunch that distinguishes this dish from other soups.
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 package corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
To prepare the chicken tortilla soup, start by placing the chicken breasts in a large pot with the chicken broth. Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, and add the fire-roasted tomatoes and chili powder.
Meanwhile, cut the corn tortillas into thin strips. Add half of these strips to the soup and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. When ready to serve, top each bowl with the remaining tortilla strips for added crunch.
For the best results, allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
To maintain the soup's integrity, store any leftover soup separately from the unused tortilla strips to prevent them from becoming soggy. When reheating, do so gently to preserve the soup's consistency. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful soup as a comforting meal any time of the year.
Cooking Steps
Get ready to bring some warmth and excitement to your kitchen with this flavorful chicken tortilla soup!
Start by boiling the chicken breasts in the chicken broth until they're perfectly tender, then add fire-roasted tomatoes and chili powder for a spicy kick.
Simmer with tortilla strips to thicken the soup, let it rest briefly to enhance the flavors, and finish by garnishing with crispy tortilla strips for that delightful crunch.
Step 1. Boil Chicken in Broth
Start by placing two large chicken breasts into a large pot and pouring in four cups of chicken broth.
You'll want to bring this fragrant mixture to a lively boil, as the excitement of the bubbles signals the start of transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This is your moment to relax and let the magic happen, as the broth infuses the chicken with its savory depth.
Simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
As the aroma fills your kitchen, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment. This step is crucial, setting the foundation for the rich flavor and juicy texture that makes chicken tortilla soup irresistible.
Step 2. Add Tomatoes and Chili Powder
With the chicken shredded and resting in the pot, it's time to enhance the soup's flavor profile.
Add two cans of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, letting their smoky goodness blend into the broth. Pour in two tablespoons of chili powder, giving your soup that unmistakable spicy kick.
Stir everything together, ensuring the tomatoes and chili powder are evenly distributed. This step is where the magic happens—watch as the rich, red color deepens and the aroma begins to fill your kitchen.
You're building layers of flavor that make this soup irresistible. The tomatoes bring a subtle sweetness, while the chili powder adds warmth and spice.
With each stir, you're one step closer to a delicious, comforting bowl of chicken tortilla soup.
Step 3. Simmer With Tortilla Strips
As the flavors mingle and deepen, it's time to incorporate the tortilla strips into your soup. Grab your sliced corn tortillas and add half of them to the simmering pot.
This step is crucial, as the strips will soak up that delicious broth, thickening the soup and infusing it with a comforting, corn-like essence. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the tortilla strips to soften and integrate with the other ingredients.
You'll notice how they transform the texture, making each spoonful more satisfying. Make sure the strips don't clump together by stirring occasionally.
This simple addition adds a new dimension to your soup, turning it into a dish that's not only warm and spicy but also hearty and fulfilling.
Step 4. Let Soup Rest Briefly
After incorporating the tortilla strips into your soup and allowing them to work their magic, it's important to let the soup rest briefly. This step is crucial for allowing all those bold flavors to meld together, creating a taste that's truly irresistible.
When you give the soup a few minutes to rest, the spices blend more harmoniously, and the tortillas continue to soak up that savory broth, enhancing their texture.
You'll find that this brief pause makes a world of difference, enriching the overall flavor profile and ensuring every spoonful is a delight.
Step 5. Garnish With Tortilla Strips
To elevate your chicken tortilla soup, add a crunchy topping by garnishing with tortilla strips. This finishing touch brings a delightful texture, making each spoonful more exciting.
First, slice your corn tortillas into thin strips. Heat a little oil in a skillet and fry the strips until they're golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
When serving your soup, generously sprinkle these crispy strips on top. They'll add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich, spicy broth.
Don't skip this step! These tortilla strips transform your soup from delicious to irresistible, ensuring your dish is a hit with family and friends. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, chicken tortilla soup is a versatile dish that can easily adapt to your personal taste preferences.
It's a delightful canvas for your creativity, inviting you to experiment with additional spices like cumin or coriander, or even add some heat with jalapeños.
Embrace the chance to customize with toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty kick.
There's a comforting warmth in every spoonful that makes it perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends.
This simple recipe lets you enjoy rich, authentic flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
By making it yourself, you're not just cooking; you're crafting a delicious experience that'll bring joy and satisfaction.
Dive in and savor each delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Fresh Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely, you can use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts!
It's convenient, quick, and hassle-free. Just drain the canned chicken, shred it, and add it to your soup.
You'll still enjoy that rich, spicy broth, and the fire-roasted tomatoes will bring out the soup's vibrant flavors.
Canned chicken works perfectly, saving you time while still delivering a hearty, satisfying meal.
Give it a try, and enjoy every delicious spoonful!
How Can I Make the Soup Spicier?
To spice up your soup, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper!
You can also include a diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
Don't be shy with the chili powder—add an extra tablespoon if you're feeling bold.
Each of these ingredients will elevate the heat level, making every spoonful even more exciting.
Just remember to taste as you go, adjusting to your perfect spice level!
Are There Vegetarian Alternatives for Chicken Broth?
You can easily swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version!
It's a fantastic alternative that still delivers a rich, savory flavor. If you want to up the taste, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or nutritional yeast to deepen the umami profile.
Don't forget to season well with your favorite spices! This switch keeps the dish warm and inviting, perfect for cozy nights.
Enjoy experimenting!
What's the Best Way to Store Leftover Tortilla Strips?
You've struck tortilla gold! To keep those tortilla strips as fresh and crispy as the first crackle, store them in an airtight container, away from moisture.
This magical seal keeps them crunchy for days, ready to crown your soup with their delightful crunch. Just imagine the satisfaction of that perfect texture contrast!
Can I Freeze the Soup for Later Use?
Absolutely, you can freeze the soup! Let it cool completely first, then pour it into airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stove. This keeps the flavors vibrant and delicious.
For best results, store the tortilla strips separately, so they stay crispy when you're ready to serve your delightful, warming meal. Enjoy!
