Craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that bursts with flavor? Look no further than this Simple Chicken Tortilla Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight dinner, this Mexican-inspired dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty meal that serves four, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With tender shredded chicken, zesty tomatoes, and crispy tortilla strips, each spoonful is a delightful experience that will have you coming back for seconds. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by placing the chicken breast in a large pot with 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- In the same pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the remaining chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your preference.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips just before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker option, substitute the raw chicken breast with shredded rotisserie chicken. Simply add it to the pot in step 6 and heat through.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to your taste. If you prefer a milder soup, start with half a teaspoon and gradually add more.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and onions for the best flavor. Sautéing them until golden enhances the soup's depth.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in additional veggies like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra nutrition and texture.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your soup with garnishes! Consider topping it with avocado slices, jalapeños, or shredded cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead meal. Just reheat and add the tortilla strips before serving.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your soup with warm tortillas or a side salad for a complete meal experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg
