This hearty and flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup is packed with shredded chicken, black beans, tomatoes, and bold spices, all simmered to perfection. Topped with crunchy tortilla strips, cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro, it’s the ultimate comforting bowl of Mexican-inspired goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect combination of comforting and vibrant. It comes together quickly in one pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The rich broth is infused with warm spices and smoky undertones, while the toppings add contrasting textures and fresh flavor. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying family dinner or a nourishing make-ahead meal, this soup delivers hearty satisfaction with every spoonful.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
- Fresh cilantro
- Crunchy corn chips or tortilla strips
- Lime wedges
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring often, until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and shredded chicken. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, crunchy tortilla strips or corn chips, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus flavor.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: 310 kcal
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with extra beans or vegetables and use vegetable broth.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or more cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
- Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
- Instant Pot: Sauté onions and spices using “Sauté” mode, then pressure cook all ingredients on high for 10 minutes.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Freeze the soup (without toppings) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and garnishing with fresh toppings.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds excellent flavor.
What type of broth works best?
Low-sodium chicken broth is ideal so you can adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Can I add corn to the soup?
Absolutely. Add 1 cup of frozen or canned corn for extra sweetness and texture.
Are tortilla strips necessary?
They add essential crunch and authenticity, but you can substitute with crushed corn chips.
How do I make homemade tortilla strips?
Cut corn tortillas into thin strips, brush with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if using gluten-free broth and toppings, it is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, it reheats very well and the flavors deepen over time.
How do I make it more filling?
Add cooked rice, quinoa, or additional beans for a heartier meal.
What cheese is best for topping?
Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack melt well and complement the flavors.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes, and add a chopped green chili or jalapeño for heat.
Conclusion
Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep, or anytime you want a bold, comforting bowl of soup. With its mix of textures and toppings, it delivers a complete and delicious meal in every bite. Add it to your recipe rotation for a crowd-pleasing favorite that never goes out of style.
PrintAuthentic Chicken Tortilla Soup
This authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting one-pot meal filled with shredded chicken, black beans, tomatoes, and bold spices, topped with crispy tortilla strips, cheese, and fresh garnishes for a flavorful Mexican-inspired dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream (for topping)
- Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar, for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (for topping)
- Crunchy corn chips or tortilla strips (for topping)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and shredded chicken.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to blend flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla strips, and cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Make it spicier by increasing cayenne or adding jalapeños.
- For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream before serving.
- This recipe freezes well—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 65mg