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A vibrant bowl of homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup is presented as the featured image for the recipe.

Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. By browning the vegetables and blooming the spices, you create a depth of flavor that elevates this simple soup to something truly special. Top with your favorite toppings for a customizable and satisfying experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced optional
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon oregano
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Tortilla strips, fried or baked for topping
  • Avocado, diced for topping
  • Shredded cheddar cheese for topping
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
  • Lime wedges for topping
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for topping

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and diced tomatoes and green chiles. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as tortilla strips, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges, and cilantro.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. To make the soup spicier, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The toppings are best added just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.