Here’s a flavorful and hearty Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Loaded with tender chicken, black beans, and corn, and topped with crispy tortilla strips, this soup is satisfying and easy to make!
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works well)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Tortilla Strips:
- 4 small corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
- Cooking spray or a bit of oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Make the tortilla strips: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla strips on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray or toss with a bit of oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden. Set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, red and green bell peppers, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the soup: Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and shredded chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Finish with lime juice: Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice for brightness. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and any other desired toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese.
Recipe Notes:
- Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and add more beans or even tofu for protein.
- Make it spicy: Add more jalapeño, or stir in a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Tortilla strips alternative: Store-bought tortilla chips work great in a pinch!
Time and Temperature:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
This Chicken Tortilla Soup is comforting, zesty, and bursting with flavors. Perfect for chilly days!