Hearty Stove Top Chicken Tortilla Soup
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bowl of sunshine? Okay, right then! Let's get this sorted like a proper cuppa and a biscuit. Ever craved something warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor? This stove top chicken tortilla soup is about to become your new best mate! It's seriously easy and packed with that amazing Mexican vibe.
A Taste of Mexico at Your Table
This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is like a culinary trip to Mexico. It's based on a classic soup, but we're making it quick and simple.
This recipe is totally doable on a busy weeknight. It makes about 6 servings, enough to feed the whole family.
Why You'll Love This Soup
Honestly, this soup is like a health boost in a bowl. Chicken broth is super soothing, and all those veggies add loads of vitamins.
It's perfect for a chilly evening, a casual get-together, or even a simple lunch. What makes it extra special? The crispy tortilla strips! You know?
Let's Get Cooking: Ingredients
Right, so, what do we need for our Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup ? We've got your basics like olive oil, onion, garlic, and chicken broth.
Then we're throwing in red bell pepper, jalapeño (if you're brave!), chili powder, cumin, and a touch of smoked paprika.
You know, the stuff that makes it taste like a proper hug! Don't forget diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cooked chicken, and a lime.
Lastly, and obviously important are: corn tortillas for those crispy strips. We'll need optional toppings like avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and green onions
I tell you what, I remember the first time I made this. I nearly forgot the chili powder. It’s key to getting the authentic flavor! Honestly, it was a near miss.
Remember to add all the ingredients!
Ingredients & Equipment for Killer Stove Top Chicken Tortilla Soup
Okay, right then! Let's get this sorted like a proper cuppa and a biscuit. Are you ready to make some amazing stove top chicken tortilla soup ? It's easier than you think, promise! Honestly, this recipe is so forgiving, even if you mess up a bit, it’ll still taste great.
Main Ingredients: Let's Gather the Goods
Here’s what you’ll need to make this soup sing.
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Use a decent one, but nothing fancy.
- Yellow onion: 1 large (about 1 cup / 150g) , chopped. Don't stress if it's not perfect.
- Garlic: 2 cloves (about 2 teaspoons / 6g) , minced. Fresh is best, but the jarred stuff works in a pinch.
- Red bell pepper: 1 (about 1 cup / 150g) , seeded and chopped. Adds a nice sweetness.
- Jalapeño: 1 (small amount, weight depends on size, start with 1/2 if unsure) , seeded and minced. Totally optional if you’re not into the heat!
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . This is where the Mexican chicken soup magic begins.
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) . Earthy and warm.
- Smoked paprika: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) . Adds a subtle smoky depth. I love a hint.
- Chicken broth: 6 cups (1.4 liters) . Good quality broth makes a big difference.
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounce / 411g) , undrained. We want that juice!
- Black beans: 1 can (15 ounce / 425g) , rinsed and drained. Adds some protein and heartiness. This chicken tortilla soup with black beans and corn is a winner.
- Corn: 1 can (15 ounce / 425g) , drained. Sweetness, sorted.
- Cooked chicken breast: 1 pound (450g) , shredded. Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for this quick chicken tortilla soup !
- Lime: Juice of 1 . Freshly squeezed, please!
- Salt and black pepper: To taste. Seasoning is key.
- Corn tortillas: About 6 , cut into thin strips. For that essential crunch.
- Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), cilantro, green onions. These are where your chicken tortilla soup toppings get creative.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town!
We’re aiming for a classic southwest flavour profile here. Chili powder and cumin are your base notes. The smoked paprika adds a touch of sophistication.
Don’t be afraid to play around with other spices like oregano or coriander. For a bit of a kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick.
This is spicy chicken tortilla soup territory!
Equipment Needed: No Fancy Kit Required
You really don't need a ton of gear for this easy chicken tortilla soup recipe .
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven. This is your main event.
- Cutting board and knife. Obvious, but essential.
- Measuring spoons and cups. For accurate seasoning.
- Slotted spoon. To fish out those tortilla strips if they go rogue.
Honestly, if you've got a pot, a knife, and a spoon, you're halfway there! Okay, right then! Let's get started! It really is a fantastic weeknight chicken tortilla soup .
Let's Make Some Cracking Stove Top Chicken Tortilla Soup!
Okay, right then! Let's get this sorted like a proper cuppa and a biscuit. We're diving headfirst into a hearty stove top chicken tortilla soup .
Honestly, this recipe is so easy. It's ready quicker than you can say "Bob's your uncle!". It's packed with flavour.
This easy chicken tortilla soup recipe is proper comfort food for a chilly evening.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
First things first, get everything prepped. Chop 1 large yellow onion , mince 2 cloves of garlic , and chop 1 red bell pepper .
If you're feeling brave, finely mince 1 jalapeño pepper remember to remove the seeds unless you want a real kick! Measure out your spices: 1 teaspoon chili powder , 1/2 teaspoon cumin , and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika .
It's a total flavor bomb!
step-by-step: Soup's On!
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes , until softened.
- Add the garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook for 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute , waking up those flavors!
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes . Add 1 can of black beans and 1 can of corn . Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes . This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in 1 pound of shredded cooked chicken and the juice of 1 lime . Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While the soup simmers, cut 6 corn tortillas into thin strips and lightly fry them. Watch them like a hawk they burn easily!
Pro Tips: From Good to Brilliant
Don't skip blooming the spices. It makes a HUGE difference! Always taste and adjust the seasoning. Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
So there you have it! A quick chicken tortilla soup that’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. Enjoy your homemade chicken tortilla soup !.
Remember, cooking should be fun, so don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
Alright, let's talk stove top chicken tortilla soup extras. Think of this as your guide to soup perfection!
Recipe Notes for the Best. Soup. Ever.
I've made this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe more times than I can count. Honestly, it's a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Here are my hard earned tips.
Serving Up Some Inspiration
Plating and Presentation Ideas : Let's be honest, soup can look a bit...meh. But not this soup! Swirl a dollop of sour cream on top.
Add a generous pile of crispy tortilla strips. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro makes all the difference! It really is the best Mexican Chicken Soup
Complementary Sides or Beverages : I love serving this Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup with warm cornbread. Or, a simple side salad with a lime vinaigrette is also amazing.
Don't forget the drinks! A refreshing margarita or even just an ice-cold beer goes down a treat.
Storage Savvy: Keep It Fresh!
Refrigeration Guidelines : This soup is even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Options (if applicable) : You can totally freeze this soup. Let it cool completely first. Then, transfer it to freezer safe containers or bags.
It will last for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions : Gently reheat the soup on the stove top over medium heat. Stir occasionally. Or, you can microwave it in individual portions.
Just be sure to keep an eye on it! I always top up with water before reheating to adjust the density.
Mix It Up: Variations Galore!
Dietary Adaptations : To make this gluten-free, just ensure your tortilla strips are made from corn tortillas. Easy peasy! For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth and extra beans.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps : In the summer, fresh corn on the cob is amazing in this Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup .
In the winter, try adding some butternut squash for extra warmth and sweetness.
Nutrition Nuggets
Simplified Nutrition Information : This One Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is packed with protein, thanks to the chicken and beans.
It also has a good dose of vitamins and fiber from the veggies.
Key Health Benefits : It’s a good source of antioxidants and can help boost your immune system. Win-win. I've often found that adding the hot peppers keeps me right as rain during flu season.
So there you have it. My Stove Top Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe with all the insider tips. It's so easy you can make it even on Weeknight Chicken Tortilla Soup ! Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
This dish is very versatile so just adapt and have fun with this Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup . You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stove top chicken tortilla soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often meld together even better when made a day in advance. Just store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove.
Just maybe keep the tortilla strips separate until serving so they stay nice and crispy, yeah?
How can I make my stove top chicken tortilla soup spicier? I like it hot, hot, HOT!
Spice it up, buttercup! For some extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup while it's simmering. Alternatively, leave the seeds and membranes in the jalapeño pepper.
And if you really want to go wild, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce, like Cholula or Tapatio, stirred in at the end will do the trick. Just remember to taste as you go!
What's the best way to shred the chicken for this stove top chicken tortilla soup recipe?
Shredding the chicken is a doddle. You can use two forks to pull the chicken apart, or even your hands (once it's cool enough to handle, of course!). A great shortcut is using rotisserie chicken from the supermarket - it saves time and is already cooked and seasoned.
For the ultimate time saver, you can even use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment to shred the chicken quickly and easily. Bob's your uncle!
Can I freeze leftover chicken tortilla soup?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer safe containers or bags. It's best to freeze it without the tortilla strips and any creamy toppings like sour cream, as these may not hold up well in the freezer.
Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Then you can add the fresh tortilla strips and toppings when serving.
Is there a vegetarian option for this chicken tortilla soup?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more beans, such as kidney or pinto beans, or other vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or more corn. A little chopped butternut squash would be lovely!
You'll have a hearty and delicious vegetarian tortilla soup in no time.
What kind of toppings go well with stove top chicken tortilla soup?
Toppings are where you can really get creative and put your own stamp on it! Classic choices include avocado slices, sour cream or Mexican crema, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving is also a winner.
Don't be shy pile them on and enjoy!
Hearty Stove Top Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 25g |