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Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup

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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.

Ingredients

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  • 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

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and shredded chicken.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to blend flavors.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Ladle soup into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla strips, and cilantro.
  7. 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.

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