Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any time of year. It combines hearty ingredients to create a warm and satisfying meal. This soup is easy to make and allows for plenty of customization. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or need a quick meal option, this soup fits the bill. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!

How to Make Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn tortillas, cut into strips
• Avocado, diced (for garnish)
• Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. While the soup simmers, fry the tortilla strips in a separate pan until crispy.
5. Serve the soup hot, topped with tortilla strips, diced avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

How to Serve Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serve Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup hot in bowls. Top each bowl with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro for added flavor and presentation. A squeeze of fresh lime juice enhances the taste further. You can also offer additional toppings like cheese or sour cream on the side for guests to customize their soup.

How to Store Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup

To store leftover Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup, let it cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage, up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños.
• A sprinkle of cheese right before serving can add a creamy texture.
• Experiment with different toppings like radishes or sour cream for variety.

Variation

For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with black beans or corn and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can cook fresh chicken in the soup. Just add raw chicken breasts or thighs at the beginning with the broth and allow it to cook through before shredding.

What can I serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You can add the tortilla strips just before serving.

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