What is Chicken Tortilla Soup traditionally made of?

Traditional Chicken Tortilla Soup typically includes a flavorful broth, shredded chicken, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chili peppers, and spices. It's usually topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and a squeeze of lime.

What makes Chicken Tortilla Soup different from other soups?

The defining characteristic is the crispy tortilla strips used as a topping. Beyond that, it's the combination of Southwestern spices, often including chili powder and cumin, and the inclusion of toppings like avocado, cheese, and lime that gives it its distinctive flavor.

Is Chicken Tortilla Soup healthy?

Yes, Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a healthy option. It's packed with protein from the chicken, vegetables, and fiber. However, the nutritional value can vary based on the ingredients and toppings used. Opt for lean chicken, plenty of vegetables, and lighter toppings to maximize health benefits.

What kind of tortillas are best for Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for Chicken Tortilla Soup. They crisp up nicely when fried or baked. Flour tortillas can also be used, but they will have a slightly different texture.

Can you freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup. It's best to freeze the soup without the toppings, as the tortilla strips and avocado will not hold up well. Add the toppings fresh when you reheat the soup.

What are some good toppings for Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Popular toppings include crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar are good choices), sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and diced red onion.

Chicken Tortilla Soup: The Easy Weeknight Dinner You'll Crave 2026

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A vibrant and cozy soup with slow-simmered broth, tender chicken, and crisp tortilla toppings. This recipe builds deep flavor quickly for a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights and easily customizable with your favorite garnishes.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 35min
Total Time: 50min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: simmering
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, with juices
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn kernels
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crispy tortilla strips, for serving
Diced avocado, for serving
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for serving
Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, for serving
Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, for serving
Lime wedges, for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in tomatoes with juices and chicken broth. Stir, scraping up any bits from the pot bottom. Add the raw chicken.
Increase heat to bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a steady simmer. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove chicken to a plate. Shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Stir in black beans and frozen corn. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to heat through.
Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice. Taste and season generously with salt and pepper.
Serve hot with desired toppings like tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, cheese, sour cream, and lime wedges.

Notes

For a thicker broth, blend about 1 cup of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the beans and corn. The soup freezes well for up to 3 months; omit dairy toppings before freezing. The lime juice at the end is essential for bright flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 320
Sugar: 5
Sodium: 450
Fat: 10
Saturated Fat: 2
Unsaturated Fat: 6
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 30
Fiber: 8
Protein: 28
Cholesterol: 60

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/chicken-tortilla-soup/