Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting bowl packed with tender chicken, crunchy tortilla strips, zesty tomatoes, and a flavorful blend of spices. It’s a delicious mix of hearty and fresh, with just the right amount of kick to keep things interesting. The textures and tastes come together in a way that’s both satisfying and welcoming.
I love making this soup when I want something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The crispy tortilla strips on top add such a nice contrast to the hearty broth and tender chicken. I usually sprinkle on some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime at the end—it really brightens up the flavors and makes the whole dish pop.
This soup is perfect for sharing with family or friends because it’s simple, filling, and everyone always asks for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to customize with extra veggies or toppings like avocado and cheese. I find it hits the spot on chilly evenings or any time I just want a meal that tastes like home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they shred easily and cook quickly. You can swap for thighs if you want more rich flavor and juiciness.
Spices: Ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika bring the signature warmth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works—just adds a bit less smoky depth.
Black Beans & Corn: These add heartiness and sweetness. Use canned for convenience or fresh/frozen for more texture. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium.
Tortilla Strips: Crunch is key here. Store-bought ones are fine, but homemade fried or oven-baked corn tortillas taste amazing and are healthier.
Avocado & Lime: These fresh toppings brighten the soup and balance the spices. Don’t skip the lime juice—it lifts all the flavors wonderfully.
How Can You Make Your Chicken Tender and Well Shredded?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to tender, juicy strands. Here are my tips:
- Simmer gently, don’t boil hard, to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Cover the pot to keep in moisture and cook evenly.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest a few minutes before shredding.
- Use two forks or your hands to shred into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Adding the shredded chicken back into the warm soup lets it soak up the broth flavors, making every bite tasty and tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – perfect for sautéing ingredients and simmering your soup all in one pot.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, jalapeño, and slicing avocado neatly.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – to stir ingredients without scratching your pot.
- Two forks – great for shredding cooked chicken easily.
- Ladle – to serve the soup with all those tasty ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for shredded rotisserie chicken to save time while keeping great flavor.
- Add diced green chilies or chipotle peppers in adobo for a smokier, spicier soup.
- Include diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra veggies and freshness.
- Top with shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar for creaminess and a melty finish.
Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade fried corn tortillas)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or Mexican crema for garnish
Time You’ll Need
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so plan for around 40 minutes total from start to finish. It’s a quick and cozy meal perfect for any day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Spices and Liquids:
Mix in the ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, stirring for a minute to bring out their flavors. Then pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with juice, black beans, and corn. Give everything a good stir.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down to let it simmer. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken and Finish:
Take out the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup, then season with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes so the flavors mix well.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top with crunchy tortilla strips, slices of creamy avocado, a spoonful of sour cream, and sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top. Enjoy your warm, flavorful bowl of chicken tortilla soup!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. This helps ensure even cooking and tender results.
How Can I Make Homemade Tortilla Strips?
Simply cut corn tortillas into thin strips and fry them in a bit of hot oil until crispy and golden. Alternatively, toss the strips with a little oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crunchier for a lighter option.
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Definitely! The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Shredded cheese, diced avocado, sliced radishes, extra lime wedges, or chopped green onions all make great additions to customize your bowl.