Delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken tortilla soup – the very name conjures images of steaming bowls, warm tortillas, and a symphony of flavors that awaken the taste buds. This hearty Mexican dish is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace, a fiesta in a pot, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a taste of south-of-the-border goodness.

Beyond Delicious: A Soup Steeped in Tradition

But is chicken tortilla soup authentically Mexican? Absolutely! While variations exist, the traditional recipe boasts a rich history. Its roots can be traced back to Aztec cuisine, where soups formed a staple part of the diet. The Aztecs used readily available ingredients like corn, beans, and chilies to create flavorful broths. With Spanish colonization came the introduction of chicken and tomatoes, forever changing the landscape of Mexican soups.

Today, chicken tortilla soup remains a beloved dish throughout Mexico. Each region adds its own twist, incorporating local ingredients and spices. Some versions feature shredded pork instead of chicken, while others boast a creamier base. Yet, the essence remains the same – a comforting and flavorful soup that nourishes the body and soul.

A Symphony of Flavors in Every Spoonful

The beauty of chicken tortilla soup lies in its delightful simplicity. The recipe is approachable for home cooks of all levels, yet the result is a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the palate. The base typically features chicken broth simmered with aromatic vegetables like onions and garlic. Crushed tomatoes lend a vibrant acidity, while spices like chili powder and oregano infuse the soup with warmth and depth.

Beans, a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, add heartiness and protein. Black beans are a popular choice, but pinto or kidney beans can also be used for a change of pace. Corn, another Mexican staple, provides a touch of sweetness and pops of vibrant color. Hominy, a type of dried corn, adds a delightful chewy texture. Chopped green chiles lend a welcome kick of heat, but the level of spice can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.

The Art of the Garnish: A Fiesta on Top

No bowl of chicken tortilla soup is complete without a fiesta of flavorful garnishes. Crispy tortilla strips, their golden edges begging to be dipped, add a delightful textural contrast to the smooth soup. Fresh avocado slices bring a touch of cool creaminess, while shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack, offers a satisfying salty richness. A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro adds a vibrant pop of color and a burst of herbaceousness. Don’t forget the lime wedges! A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

A Culinary Adventure: Chicken Tortilla Soup Journey

The beauty of chicken tortilla soup lies in its versatility. It’s a recipe that welcomes improvisation and invites you to personalize it to your palate. Here are some ideas to inspire your own culinary adventure:

Spice it Up: For those who crave a bolder kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeno to the pot while simmering.
Veggie Power: Feeling like incorporating more vegetables? Saute chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or poblano chiles with the onions and garlic.
Protein Play: Swap out the chicken for shredded turkey, leftover roast pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Go Green: Want to add a touch of leafy greens? Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of simmering.
Cheese Symphony: Explore different cheeses beyond Monterey Jack. Queso fresco or Cotija offer a crumbly texture and a touch of saltiness, while cheddar cheese adds a sharper flavor profile.

Crafting Culinary Magic: Step-by-Step Guide

Gather Your Ingredients: Assemble the necessary ingredients – olive oil, onions, garlic, canned tomatoes, chicken broth, water, spices, beans, cooked chicken, corn, hominy, green chiles, cilantro, and your chosen garnishes.
Sautéing Symphony: Heat olive oil in a stockpot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, letting them soften and release their fragrance for about 5 minutes.
Spice Up Your Life: Stir in chili powder and oregano, toasting the spices for a minute to unlock their full flavor potential.
Building the Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, condensed chicken broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Welcome the Beans and Beyond: Introduce the rinsed and drained black beans, along with the cooked chicken, corn, hominy, chopped green chiles, and fresh cilantro. Simmer for another 10 minutes, letting everything incorporate beautifully.
Serving with Style: Ladle the steaming soup into individual bowls. Now comes the fun part – unleash your inner artist and create a visual masterpiece with your chosen garnishes. Crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado slices, melty shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions are just a few suggestions. Don’t forget lime wedges for that final touch of brightness!

Leftovers: Embracing the Power of Meal Prep

The beauty of chicken tortilla soup is that it lends itself perfectly to meal prepping. Here’s how to ensure leftovers translate to future delicious meals:

Cooling Down: Once cooked, allow the soup to cool completely before storing. This is crucial to prevent bacterial growth.
Portion Control: Divide the cooled soup into airtight containers. Individual portions are perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.
Fridge or Freezer? The soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, the freezer is your friend. Ladle cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags, ensuring they are air-tight. Chicken tortilla soup will last for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Rhapsody: Bringing Leftovers Back to Life

When hunger strikes and you crave a taste of that comforting soup, here’s how to revive leftovers:

Thaw and Reheat: For frozen soup, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Once thawed, you can reheat the soup in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat, or in a microwave-safe container using the reheat function.

Final Touches: A Celebration of Customization

Remember, this recipe is a springboard for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment and personalize the soup to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some additional tips:

Ditch the Canned Goods: For a more rustic flavor, consider using fresh chopped tomatoes instead of canned ones.
Broth Options: Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
Embrace Gluten-Free Options: Use corn tortillas for gluten-free tortilla strips.
Spice It Up Gradually: If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with a smaller amount of chili powder or green chiles and adjust to your preference.

Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Culinary Journey Awaits

So, embark on your own chicken tortilla soup adventure. Experiment with flavors, personalize with garnishes, and gather loved ones around the table to create lasting memories. With every steaming bowl, celebrate the comfort, savor the simplicity, and embrace the joy of this heartwarming Mexican classic.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

352	Calories
18g	Fat
34g	Carbs
19g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 8
Calories 352
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18g	22%
Saturated Fat 4g	19%
Cholesterol 33mg	11%
Sodium 711mg	31%
Total Carbohydrate 34g	13%
Dietary Fiber 12g	44%
Total Sugars 8g
Protein 19g	39%
Vitamin C 55mg	61%
Calcium 140mg	11%
Iron 4mg	21%
Potassium 1050mg	22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.