Mexican chicken tortilla soup: 7 flavors to savor today

Name: Mexican chicken tortilla soup: 7 flavors to savor today
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup tortilla strips; 1 avocado, diced; 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, cut into wedges

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Mexican chicken tortilla soup to wrap you in a cozy hug! This soup is bursting with flavor, thanks to the tender shredded chicken, zesty spices, and a delightful mix of beans and corn. It’s not only super simple to whip up, but it also brings a comforting warmth that makes it perfect for any day of the week. The best part? You can customize it to your heart’s content! So, if you’re looking for a delicious way to brighten your meal routine, this Mexican chicken tortilla soup is here to save the day!

mexican chicken tortilla soup - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious Mexican chicken tortilla soup! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – You can use leftover chicken or grab a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
4 cups chicken broth – This is the flavorful base, so choose a good quality broth for the best taste.
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – These add a lovely sweetness and acidity to balance the flavors.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained – They provide protein and a nice texture.
1 cup corn kernels – Fresh, frozen, or canned will all work perfectly!
1 onion, chopped – It gives a wonderful depth of flavor when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Because who doesn’t love the aroma of garlic cooking?
1 tablespoon olive oil – This is for sautéing the onions and garlic.
2 teaspoons chili powder – This spice adds warmth and depth; feel free to adjust to taste.
1 teaspoon cumin – It brings that earthy flavor that pairs so well with the other ingredients.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all those wonderful flavors.
1 cup tortilla strips – Crispy tortilla strips are a must for that crunchy topping!
1 avocado, diced – For creaminess and a fresh touch.
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped – This adds a burst of freshness, but feel free to leave it out if you’re not a fan!
1 lime, cut into wedges – A squeeze of lime just before serving brightens everything up.

How to Prepare Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Mexican chicken tortilla soup! Trust me, it’s easier than you might think, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will help create a flavorful base.
Once the oil is nice and warm, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the smell already!
Next, stir in 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and some salt and pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for another minute to really awaken those spices.
Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of black beans (rinsed and drained), and 1 cup of corn kernels. Stir everything together until well combined.
Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all those fabulous flavors to mingle together. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.
After 20 minutes, add in your 2 cups of shredded chicken and stir it through. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes just to heat the chicken through.
Finally, serve your soup hot, topping it with tortilla strips, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Each bite is a burst of flavor and comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time!
Full of Flavor: The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and tender chicken creates a deliciously rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans and chicken, plus vitamins from the veggies, this soup is as nutritious as it is satisfying.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste! You can add more veggies, switch up the spices, or even toss in some cheese if you like.
Perfect for Leftovers: This Mexican chicken tortilla soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option!
Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors and fun toppings, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike. Everyone will love digging into their own bowl of deliciousness!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Mexican chicken tortilla soup turns out absolutely amazing, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:

Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for an extra kick! You can always start small and adjust to your taste.
Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving. It adds a lovely richness that complements the spices beautifully.
Mix Up the Beans: While black beans are classic, feel free to experiment with pinto beans or kidney beans if that’s what you have on hand. They’ll still fit right in!
Fresh Herbs: Don’t skimp on the cilantro! It really brightens up the flavors, but if you’re not a fan, try topping with fresh parsley or even green onions for a different twist.
Batch It Up: This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers for a quick meal later.
Serve with Sides: Pair your soup with warm, crusty bread or homemade quesadillas for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. The more, the merrier!

Variations

The beauty of this Mexican chicken tortilla soup is how easy it is to customize! Here are a few fun variations you can try to mix things up and suit your taste:

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup: If you’re a heat lover, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a fiery kick. You can also swap out the chili powder for a spicier blend.
Vegetarian Version: For a meatless twist, substitute the chicken with additional beans like chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty option!
Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, just before serving for a creamy, cheesy version that will have everyone swooning. You can also sprinkle some on top for an extra cheesy finish!
Southwest Style: Incorporate a can of diced green chilies for an added layer of flavor, or toss in some corn tortillas cut into strips for a different texture and taste.
Mango Salsa Kick: Add a refreshing twist by topping your soup with a mango salsa made from diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. The sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the savory soup!
Smoky Flavor: If you enjoy a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the broth. It’ll elevate the whole dish and give it a lovely depth!

Feel free to combine any of these variations or let your creativity flow. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this soup so much fun to make!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No worries! This Mexican chicken tortilla soup stores beautifully, and I can promise you it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly so it doesn’t pick up any other flavors from the fridge!
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Now, when it comes to reheating:

Stovetop: The best way to reheat the soup is on the stove. Pour it into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This helps retain that delicious flavor and texture!
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just transfer a bowl of soup and cover it loosely (to prevent splatters!). Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

Remember, if the soup seems a bit thick after reheating, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your leftovers and happy slurping!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a hearty bowl of Mexican chicken tortilla soup, you might be curious about what’s packed into each serving. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per bowl:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities you use. Regardless, this soup is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Enjoy every spoonful knowing it’s packed with good stuff!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken on hand, you can toss it directly into the pot with the broth and let it cook until it’s fully cooked through. Just make sure to shred it before serving!

What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just don’t have chicken broth, feel free to use vegetable broth instead. It’ll still give your soup a lovely depth of flavor!

How spicy is this Mexican chicken tortilla soup?
The spiciness really depends on how much chili powder you add and if you choose to include jalapeños. I recommend starting with the base recipe and then adjusting to your heat preference!

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just add all the ingredients (except for the tortilla strips, avocado, and lime) into the slow cooker, set it on low for 6-8 hours, and enjoy the wonderful flavors when you return!

How do I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tortilla strips. Always check the label on any canned ingredients as well to ensure they’re gluten-free!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.