The Best Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Oozing with bold flavors, this homemade chicken tortilla soup recipe will make your taste buds dance—just wait until you try the secret ingredient.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade chicken tortilla soup is a comforting favorite you’ll want to make again and again. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any night of the week.

  • Simple ingredients: Use pantry staples like chicken, tomatoes, beans, and spices for an effortless meal.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream to make it your own.
  • Hearty and satisfying: Warm, filling, and loaded with tender chicken and bold spices, it’s a bowl of comfort you’ll crave.

Recipe

hearty homemade tortilla soup

This homemade chicken tortilla soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. Packed with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and crispy tortilla strips, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, and sour cream for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, and sour cream.

Notes:

  • For extra spice, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Equipment:

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Cuisine: Mexican

Serving: Serves 4-6

Nutrition

This homemade chicken tortilla soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving.

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories250 kcal
Protein18 g
Carbohydrates20 g
Fat10 g
Saturated Fat3 g
Cholesterol45 mg
Sodium800 mg
Fiber3 g
Sugar4 g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my chicken tortilla soup with simple sides, like warm cornbread or a crisp avocado salad, to keep the meal light but satisfying. A cold glass of limeade or an icy Mexican beer balances the soup’s warmth perfectly, making every bite feel like a mini fiesta. Trust me, the right combo turns a cozy bowl of soup into a full, flavorful meal.

Side Dishes

When you’re digging into a bowl of homemade chicken tortilla soup, you can’t go wrong by pairing it with a few tasty sides that’ll make the meal even more satisfying. I love serving warm, fluffy cornbread or a basket of crispy tortilla chips for dipping. A simple side salad with avocado, lime, and cilantro adds freshness, while a scoop of Mexican rice complements the soup’s rich flavors perfectly. Sometimes, I’ll even roast some sweet potatoes or make guacamole for extra flair. These sides balance the soup’s heartiness, making every bite feel like a complete, comforting meal.

Beverage Pairings

While a bowl of homemade chicken tortilla soup is flavorful enough to stand on its own, pairing it with the right drink can elevate the whole experience. I love sipping on a cold glass of limeade—its tangy sweetness balances the soup’s spiciness perfectly. If you’re into fizzy drinks, a citrusy soda or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon works wonders. For something fancier, a crisp white wine or light beer complements the soup’s hearty flavors without overpowering it. And if it’s a chilly evening, herbal tea or a mug of warm cider feels cozy and comforting. Cheers to a delicious meal!

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