Fiesta Chicken Tortilla Soup a Taste of Sunshine in Every Bowl
Recipe Introduction: Fiesta Chicken Tortilla Soup
Fancy a bit of sunshine in a bowl? Ever find yourself craving something warm, comforting, and packed with flavour? Well, let me tell you about my chicken tortilla soup recipe ! Honestly, it's like a hug in a bowl and perfect for those chilly evenings.
A Southwestern Hug
This southwestern chicken soup is inspired by traditional Mexican flavours. It's got history baked right in! It's super easy to make, taking only about 55 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe makes about six servings. Plenty to go around for everyone!
Benefits Beyond Taste
This healthy chicken tortilla soup recipe is packed with nutrients and will warm you up on any day. It's perfect to serve when you want a great comfort food soup recipe or even as a fiesta soup recipe .
What makes this best chicken tortilla soup recipe so special? It's the combination of fresh ingredients, spices, and, of course, those crispy tortilla strips!
Let's Talk Ingredients
You'll need the usual suspects like chicken, tomatoes, beans, and corn. Don't forget the spices! Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika are the secret sauce.
I always use rotisserie chicken soup recipe . It's a real time saver. And for toppings? Get creative! I'm talking avocado, sour cream, cheese, and a squeeze of lime.
Grab those tortillas and let's make some magic.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this fiesta soup recipe ! It's easier than you think.
Honestly, this chicken tortilla soup recipe is so forgiving, it's practically foolproof. We're talking comfort food soup recipes at its finest, my friend.
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's break down the bits and bobs for the best chicken tortilla soup recipe , shall we?
Main Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). This adds richness.
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced. Look for firm onions with dry skins.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best!
- Red bell pepper: 1 , diced. Choose a bright, firm pepper.
- Jalapeño: 1 , seeded and minced (optional). Adjust to your spice preference.
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon . Adds that earthy warmth.
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon . For a southwestern chicken soup kick!
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon . This gives a lovely smoky depth.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups (950 ml), low-sodium preferred. Good broth = good soup.
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce/411g) can, undrained. Don't drain! You want that juice!
- Black beans: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can, rinsed and drained. Make sure they're nicely rinsed.
- Frozen corn kernels: 1 cup . Straight from the freezer to the pot.
- Shredded cooked chicken: 2 cups . Rotisserie chicken soup recipe ? YES PLEASE!
- Lime juice: From 1 lime. Freshly squeezed is a must.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste. Season, season, season!
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped, for garnish. Adds a pop of freshness.
- Corn tortillas: 6 . Day-old tortillas fry up better.
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml), for frying. Canola oil works too.
- Salt: A pinch, for the tortilla strips.
Seasoning Notes
Essential spice combinations? Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika are your holy trinity here. They scream Mexican soup recipes . For flavor enhancers and aromatics, don't underestimate the power of fresh garlic and onions.
If you're feeling spicy chicken tortilla soup , add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
A quick substitution option? If you don't have smoked paprika, use regular paprika with a tiny drop of liquid smoke.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or dutch oven chicken tortilla soup : Essential for simmering all those flavors.
- Cutting board: A good wooden one is your friend.
- Sharp knife: Keep it sharp!
- Large skillet or frying pan: For frying those tortilla strips.
- Slotted spoon: To scoop those crispy tortillas.
- Blender or immersion blender (optional): For a creamy chicken tortilla soup texture. This healthy chicken tortilla soup recipe can be made even more wholesome with an immersion blender. If you are looking for a vegetarian tortilla soup recipe , consider adding more vegetables like squash or zucchini.
Right then, you're armed with the knowledge to nail this easy chicken tortilla soup !
Alright, let's get this show on the road! A chicken tortilla soup recipe , eh? Classic comfort food soup recipes .
Think 'Friends' episode where Phoebe just wants a break, but instead of Central Perk, we're huddled over a steaming bowl of this golden goodness.
Sorted! Here's a best chicken tortilla soup recipe , good enough to make even Joey Tribbiani say "How you doin'?" to a bowl of soup.
Fiesta Chicken Tortilla Soup
This fiesta soup recipe is seriously a hug in a bowl. I'm talking a vibrant, southwestern chicken soup bursting with flavor.
It's got chicken, veggies, and, of course, those crunchy tortilla strips. Who doesn't love a good crunch? Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover chicken recipes soup .
Think rotisserie chicken, if you're after that rotisserie chicken soup recipe life.
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized!
- Essential Mise en Place: Chop the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Mince the garlic. Shred your cooked chicken. Having everything ready beforehand seriously speeds things up. Trust me!
- Time Saving Organization Tips: While the onion is sauteing, prep your toppings. Dice avocado, shred cheese, and chop cilantro. Boom. Done!
- Safety Reminders: Watch the little ones around hot oil and stoves. And always use caution when handling that jalapeño. Those sneaky devils are hotter than they look!
The Tortilla Soup Hustle: step-by-step
- First up, prepare the tortilla strips. Cut 6 corn tortillas into thin strips. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet.
- Fry tortilla strips until golden brown and crispy. This should take 2- 3 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Sauté 1 diced medium yellow onion until softened. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 1 minced jalapeño (optional) and cook until slightly tender. That's around 5- 7 minutes.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of black beans, and 1 cup of frozen corn. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Pro Tips for Rocking This Recipe
- Want that creamy chicken tortilla soup texture? Blend a bit of the soup with an immersion blender. Be careful, though! Hot soup can be sneaky.
- Avoid burning the tortilla strips! Keep a close eye on them while they fry. No one wants burnt tortillas. Also, if you want an authentic chicken tortilla soup , don't skip the lime juice! It adds a zing that you won't regret. A squeeze of lime is that tortilla soup garnish you don't want to skip.
- This healthy chicken tortilla soup recipe is even better the next day! Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy leftovers all week.
Honestly, this quick chicken tortilla soup is one of my go-to recipes for those days when I need some serious comfort food soup recipes .
It's like a fiesta in my mouth. Plus, there are so many options for chicken tortilla soup toppings . It is so easy to make a vegetarian tortilla soup recipe using the same steps and adding squash or potatoes.
I hope you love it!
Recipe Notes: Your Soup, Your Way
So, you're about to make this fiesta soup recipe ! Awesome! Before you dive in, let's chat about some ways to make this chicken tortilla soup recipe truly yours.
This isn't just a chicken tortilla soup , it's your chicken tortilla soup . Think of these as guidelines, not rules.
Let's jump right in!
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key, right? For this southwestern chicken soup , ladle it into a rustic bowl. Top generously with crispy tortilla strips.
I personally love a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Diced avocado adds a creamy coolness.
This makes a truly vibrant and inviting bowl. A side of warm cornbread? Oh my gosh, yes! A cool glass of agua fresca would also be amazing.
Keeping It Fresh: Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This easy chicken tortilla soup keeps well. Cool it completely before storing it. Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It'll be good for 3-4 days . For longer storage, freeze it! Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of broth if it's thickened too much.
And Honestly? sometimes leftovers tastes even better the next day!
Remix Time: Variations
Want a change? A vegetarian tortilla soup recipe is super simple. Swap the chicken broth for veggie broth. Add extra black beans and corn.
Roasted sweet potatoes would also be fantastic. If you want to make a creamy chicken tortilla soup , stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end.
For a spicier kick, add extra jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to your spicy chicken tortilla soup .
This best chicken tortilla soup recipe is versatile!
Inside Scoop: Nutrition Basics
Okay, let's talk numbers. This healthy chicken tortilla soup recipe is packed with protein and fiber. It also has vitamins from all those veggies! The exact nutrition depends on your ingredients.
But you can keep it healthy by using low-sodium broth. Also, go easy on the cheese and sour cream. Each serving is a good source of energy.
It's also warming and comforting, like a big hug in a bowl. And I personally love adding tortilla soup garnish such as onions or tomatoes!
Remember, this chicken tortilla soup recipe is just a starting point. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun. You know, let your inner chef shine! This recipe is also great for using leftover chicken recipes soup since you can just use cooked chicken.
So, grab your apron and get cooking! You've got this! This could even be served as a chicken tortilla casserole .
If you have a dutch oven chicken tortilla soup is also a fantastic choice! Or maybe a slow cooker chicken tortilla soup is more your style.
If your feeling spicy perhaps some chicken and black bean soup will do the trick! Make it yours!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken tortilla soup recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chicken tortilla soup is fantastic for meal prepping. The flavors actually meld together even more beautifully overnight. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Add the tortilla strips just before serving to keep them crispy nobody likes soggy strips!
How do I store leftover chicken tortilla soup?
Storing leftover chicken tortilla soup is a breeze! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
You know, just like you'd keep your favourite box set ready for a rainy day!
My chicken tortilla soup is too spicy! What can I do?
Uh oh, things got a bit too hot in the kitchen? Don't worry, we've all been there! To tone down the heat, try adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each bowl. A squeeze of extra lime juice can also help to balance the flavors.
In a pinch, adding a little bit more chicken broth or diced tomatoes can dilute the spice.
What are some good toppings for chicken tortilla soup besides the usual suspects?
While tortilla strips, avocado, and sour cream are classic choices, don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese or a dollop of guacamole. Pickled onions offer a nice tangy kick, and a drizzle of hot sauce (if you're brave!) can add an extra layer of flavor.
Think of it like choosing the perfect hat for your outfit make it your own!
Can I make this chicken tortilla soup recipe vegetarian?
You bet! It's super easy to adapt this chicken tortilla soup recipe into a delicious vegetarian version. Simply omit the chicken and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
To add some protein and heartiness, increase the amount of black beans or add another can of your favorite beans, like kidney or pinto beans. Adding some diced sweet potatoes or zucchini also adds nice texture and flavour.
What if I don't have all the exact ingredients for this chicken tortilla soup recipe?
Don't sweat it! Cooking is all about being adaptable. If you don't have red bell pepper, use yellow or orange. If you don't have black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans will work. Smoked paprika adds a nice depth, but regular paprika will do just fine.
Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver, but any cooked, shredded chicken will work. It's like improv comedy in the kitchen work with what you've got!
Fiesta Chicken Tortilla Soup A Taste Of Sunshine
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 375 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 8g |
