Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Quick, Delicious Dinner Recipe
This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the rich broth, tender chicken, and crispy tortilla strips in every bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken (shredded or diced)
- Low-sodium Chicken Broth
- Fire-roasted Diced Tomatoes (or regular diced/crushed tomatoes)
- Black Beans (drained and rinsed)
- Corn (canned or frozen)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chili Powder
- Ground Cumin
- Smoked Paprika
- Dried Oregano
- Olive Oil
- Crispy Tortilla Strips
- Fresh Lime Juice
- Avocado (chunks)
- Shredded Cheese
- Sour Cream
- Fresh Cilantro
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Mince your garlic and chop your onion. Shred your cooked chicken if not already done. Drain and rinse the black beans, and drain the canned corn (if using). This upfront prep makes everything flow smoothly.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Bloom the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Cook for just 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
- Simmer the Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the drained black beans and corn. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Chicken & Finish: Stir in your shredded cooked chicken and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, just until the chicken is heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – a pinch more salt or pepper can make a big difference.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with crispy tortilla strips, fresh avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Optional additions include shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: For a spicier version, add a finely diced jalapeño with the onion. To make it creamy, stir in cream cheese or heavy cream at the end. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and add extra beans or diced sweet potatoes.