What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup is cozy, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week, whether you’re craving comfort or just want something quick and delicious. You’ll love how simple it is to make with pantry staples, yet it tastes like it’s straight from your favorite restaurant. Packed with tender chicken and rich spices, every bite is a burst of warmth and flavor. Plus, it’s customizable—top it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or crispy tortilla strips for a meal that feels all your own. It’s comfort food that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to impress your family or friends.
Recipe
This homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth. Topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla strips (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, jalapeño, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
- Add black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with avocado, cheese, cilantro, and tortilla strips.
Notes:
- For extra spice, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Rotisserie chicken works well for a quick prep.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican
Serving: 4-6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade chicken tortilla soup is packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing homemade chicken tortilla soup with warm, cheesy quesadillas or a fresh side salad—it’s the perfect balance of flavors. For drinks, I usually go with an ice-cold agua fresca or a crisp Mexican lager to complement the soup’s spiciness. Trust me, these combinations make the meal even more satisfying.
Side Dishes
When serving homemade chicken tortilla soup, I like to pair it with sides that complement its rich, savory flavors without stealing the show. Warm cornbread or buttery garlic bread is a great choice, adding a soft, comforting texture. A fresh avocado salad with lime dressing brings a cool, creamy contrast, while cilantro-lime rice soaks up the soup’s broth perfectly. For a crunchier option, crispy tortilla chips or a simple veggie platter with radishes and cucumbers work well. These sides enhance the meal without overpowering the soup’s bold taste, creating a balanced, satisfying dining experience every time.
Beverage Pairings
Just as the right sides can elevate your chicken tortilla soup, the perfect drink can make the meal even more enjoyable. I love pairing this soup with a crisp lime margarita—it’s invigorating and complements the soup’s zesty flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea with a hint of mint works wonders. For something bubbly, try a fizzy soda water with a squeeze of lime or orange. Sometimes, I go classic with a chilled Mexican beer. Whatever you choose, the goal is to balance the soup’s richness and spice with a cool, satisfying sip. Cheers!
