Introduction
Soup is one of the most comforting dishes around, and this flavorful chicken tortilla soup is no exception. Packed with ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious, it offers a perfect balance of spices and textures. With a base of rich chicken broth and a medley of vegetables, this recipe is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a hearty dish to serve at a gathering, this soup is an excellent choice.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Soup:
– 3 tablespoons crushed corn tortilla chips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 2 jalapeño peppers, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 29 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes and green chilies (two 14.5-ounce cans)
– 11 ounces canned corn kernels (one can)
– 14.5 ounces canned black beans, rinsed and drained (one can)
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 3 cups cubed cooked chicken
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
– Shredded Mexican blend cheese
– Corn tortilla chips or strips
– Sour cream
– Chopped fresh cilantro
– Sliced avocado
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Tortilla Chips
Crush enough tortilla chips to make 3 tablespoons and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables
Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Then, add the diced jalapeños and cook for an additional minute. Finally, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Combine Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes and green chilies, corn, black beans, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, and the crushed tortilla chips.
Add Chicken
If using raw chicken breasts, add them now and reduce the heat to low.
Simmer Soup
Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts and use two forks to shred them. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. (If using cooked cubed chicken, add it now.)
Add Lime Juice and Cream
Add the lime juice and heavy cream. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until heated through.
To Serve
Portion Soup
Ladle the soup into serving bowls and sprinkle with shredded cheese, corn tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro.
Garnish
Serve with a wedge of lime and a few slices of avocado.
Notes
Chicken Options
You can use either raw chicken breasts or pre-cooked cubed chicken in this recipe.
Adjusting Spice Level
To increase the spice level, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Optional toppings can enhance flavor and presentation, such as adding more cheese, cilantro, or avocado.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a technique used to quickly cook vegetables in a small amount of oil over medium heat. This method enhances the flavor of ingredients like onions, jalapeños, and garlic by caramelizing their natural sugars.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in a liquid at a low temperature. This technique allows flavors to meld together, making it perfect for broth and soups, ensuring all ingredients are cooked evenly without boiling.
Shredding
Shredding cooked chicken involves using two forks to pull apart the meat into thin, bite-sized pieces. This technique helps to incorporate the chicken evenly throughout the soup and adds texture.
Seasoning
Seasoning is the process of adding spices and salts to enhance the dish’s flavor. It’s crucial to taste and adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking for balanced flavors.
Garnishing
Garnishing is an artistic technique used to add visual appeal and additional flavors to the dish. Common garnishes for this soup include shredded cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more beans or vegetables for protein.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free cream alternative to achieve a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat.
How can I adjust the spice level?
You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the jalapeño peppers and crushed red pepper flakes. For a milder soup, omit the peppers entirely.
Conclusion
This comforting and flavorful soup is a delightful combination of textures and spices, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. The addition of lime juice and heavy cream adds a rich and zesty finish, while the variety of toppings allows for personalization to suit individual tastes. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table!
Mexican Tortilla Soup with Shrimp
Swap the chicken for shrimp, and add some lime zest to enhance the flavor. Top with crispy tortilla strips and avocado for a delicious twist.
Vegetarian Version
Replace the chicken with diced sweet potatoes or extra beans for a hearty vegetarian soup. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully meat-free option.
Spicy Chicken and Rice Soup
Add cooked rice to the soup for a heartier meal. Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced habanero peppers for an extra spicy kick.
Southwestern Chicken Chili
Transform the soup into a chili by reducing the broth and adding more beans and corn. Top with corn chips and a sprinkle of cheese for a satisfying dish.
Creamy Avocado Chicken Soup
Blend the soup until smooth, then swirl in avocado puree before serving for a creamy texture. Garnish with a few slices of fresh avocado and cilantro.
Cheesy Chicken and Bean Bake
Take the soup base, transfer it to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese and tortilla chips, and bake until bubbly for a cheesy, hearty casserole.
