Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Cozy and Comforting Bowl
As the seasons shift and the days begin to shorten, there’s nothing quite as heartwarming as a bowl of Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through the air evokes memories of cozy nights spent with loved ones, gathered around the kitchen table. With each spoonful of this rich, savory concoction, you’ll feel wrapped in a warm embrace, satisfying both the taste buds and the soul. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting dish on a chilly evening. You’ll definitely want to pin this one for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, it’s the perfect weeknight solution.
- Packed with protein and veggies for a nutritious meal that satisfies.
- Customizable toppings let you create your own signature bowl.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved, it’s a recipe everyone will enjoy!
- One pot means minimal cleanup, giving you more time to relax.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to recreate this warm and inviting soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn tortillas, for serving
- Avocado, chopped (for garnish)
- Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How to Make Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup
Let’s make this comforting soup together step by step:
-
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. The scent will fill your kitchen, setting the mood for the deliciousness to come!
-
Stir in the bell pepper, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. The bright colors and zesty aromas are simply irresistible.
-
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil. Those beautiful tomatoes will start to meld with the spices, creating a tantalizing base.
-
Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the pot. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Sit back and enjoy hearing the gentle bubbling as the flavors meld together.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Just remember, a little sprinkle of salt can elevate the flavors beautifully.
-
Serve the soup hot with strips of corn tortillas on the side, and garnish generously with avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges. The freshness of the toppings brings it all together, creating that picture-perfect bowl.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a zesty twist that will warm you from the inside out.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of cream to add a rich, luxurious texture to your soup.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with additional veggies like zucchini or a mix of your favorite beans for a vegetarian version.
- Hearty Addition: For a more filling meal, add quinoa or rice to the soup as it simmers. This will also create a delightful texture.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator; the flavors will deepen overnight!
- Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have black beans? Feel free to use pinto beans or even chickpeas for a different texture.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave!
- Freezing Option: Freeze any leftovers in individual portions for a quick meal option. Just thaw and heat when a craving strikes!
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
Serving size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Carbs: 45g
Sugar: 6g
Fat: 10g
Protein: 27g
Sodium: 700mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Just store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I use different ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to swap out any veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated or frozen for later enjoyment.
How long does it last?
In the fridge, it will last about 5 days, while frozen soup is best enjoyed within 3 months for optimal flavor.
A Cozy Closing Note
This Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings family and friends together. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready whenever you need a cozy treat! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Corn tortillas for serving
- Avocado, chopped for garnish
- Cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the bell pepper, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the pot. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot with strips of corn tortillas on the side, and garnish generously with avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.
