
Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a warm, flavorful meal. This comforting soup is packed with fresh ingredients and spices that make every bowl a delight. It’s easy to prepare and is great for any occasion, whether you’re having a family dinner or a cozy night in. The combination of shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and crispy tortilla chips makes this soup especially satisfying.
How to Make Comforting Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients:
- 3 Chicken breasts (about 1 lb), boneless skinless
- 1 cup Bell peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup Cilantro, fresh, chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 Lime, juice of
- 1 Onion, medium, chopped
- 1 can Tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups Chicken broth, low-sodium
- 2 tsp Chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp Cumin, ground
- 1 cup Tortilla chips
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until softened.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are browned on all sides.
- Stir in the tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
- Serve hot with tortilla chips on top.
How to Serve Comforting Chicken Tortilla Soup
To serve this delicious soup, ladle it into bowls and top it with crunchy tortilla chips for extra texture. You can also add extra cilantro, sliced avocado, or even a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. This soup is great on its own or served with a side of warm bread for a hearty meal.
How to Store Comforting Chicken Tortilla Soup
If you have leftover soup, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Comforting Chicken Tortilla Soup
- For added depth of flavor, consider roasting the bell peppers before adding them to the pot.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder, depending on your taste preference.
- If you want a creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the shredded chicken back in.
Variations
You can easily customize this soup to suit your preferences. Try adding black beans or corn for more texture. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with beans and vegetable broth, and use grilled vegetables as a hearty alternative.
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken?
Yes! You can use leftover cooked chicken. Just skip the browning step and add the cooked chicken when you stir in the tomatoes and broth.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is this soup spicy?
The soup has a mild spice level. If you prefer it spicier, add more chili powder or include some chopped jalapeños.