Introduction
Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate celebration of bold Mexican-inspired flavors and cozy comfort, blending juicy shredded chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and smoky spices into a soul-warming broth. Topped with crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, and zesty lime, it’s no wonder this dish reigns supreme among Winter Soup Recipes and Healthy Dinner Recipes. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers effortless satisfaction. Plus, it’s adaptable for stovetop, slow cookers, or Instant Pots—perfect for busy cooks!
Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken Tortilla Soup packs protein, fiber, and vitamins without excess calories. Thanks to lean chicken, beans, and veggies, it’s a nutrient-dense powerhouse. Here’s the breakdown per serving (1.5 cups):
| Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 28g | 24g | 12g | 6g |
Key benefits:
– Vitamin C from tomatoes and lime boosts immunity.
– Fiber from black beans and corn aids digestion.
– Lean protein keeps you full longer, making it ideal for Soup Recipes Healthy goals.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility! Here’s how each ingredient shines:
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | Protein base | Thighs, rotisserie chicken, or tofu |
| Fire-roasted tomatoes | Smoky depth | Regular diced tomatoes + ½ tsp smoked paprika |
| Black beans | Fiber & texture | Pinto or kidney beans |
| Corn | Sweetness | Frozen, canned, or omitted |
| Chicken broth | Savory base | Vegetable broth |
| Chipotle in adobo | Heat & smokiness | 1 tsp chili powder + ¼ tsp cumin |
Vegetarian? Swap chicken for extra beans and mushrooms. Gluten-free? Use corn tortillas!
Equipment Needed
– Large Dutch oven or soup pot
– Slow cooker or Instant Pot (for hands-off cooking)
– Immersion blender (for smoother broth, optional)
– Sharp knife & cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pot. Cook 1 diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 chopped jalapeño until soft (5 mins).
2. Build Flavor: Stir in 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, and 2 tbsp tomato paste. Cook 2 minutes.
3. Simmer Soup: Add 4 cups broth, 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes, 1 lb chicken breast, 1 cup corn, and 1 can rinsed black beans. Bring to a boil, then simmer 20 mins.
4. Shred Chicken: Remove chicken, shred with forks, then return to pot. Stir in juice from 1 lime.
5. Serve: Ladle into bowls. Top with tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
This Chicken Tortilla Soup excels as both a Healthy Dinner Recipes staple and a Comfort Soup Recipes favorite!
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Too spicy? Add a teaspoon of honey or omit jalapeño seeds.
– Broth too thin? Mash a few beans or simmer uncovered for 10 mins.
– Boost flavor: Char tortillas under the broiler before adding to soup.
– Shortcut: Use a rotisserie chicken (add in Step 4).
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Fridge: Store in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
– Freeze: Portion soup (without toppings) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
– Meal prep: Chop veggies and measure spices ahead.
Conclusion
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a foolproof, crowd-pleasing dish that masters the balance between hearty nourishment and vibrant flavor. It’s a stellar pick for Healthy Dinner Recipes when you need a meal that’s both wholesome and exciting. Craving more inspiration? Explore our ultimate guide to Winter Soup Recipes, like this smoky [Smoked Sausage & Kale Soup](https://dailyfreerecipes.com/smoked-sausage-kale-soup/), or browse our Easy Fall Soup Recipes for seasonal spins!
FAQ
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté onions/garlic first, then add ingredients to the cooker. Cook on low 6–8 hours or high 3–4 hours.
Q: How do I keep tortilla strips crispy?
A: Serve them on the side, or bake store-bought strips at 350°F for 5 minutes before topping.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Absolutely—freeze without dairy or avocado toppings for best results.
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