Delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup – Ultimate 30-Minute Mexican Comfort Recipe
Introduction
If you’re looking for a healthy dinner recipe that’s comforting, high-protein, and easy to prepare, this Chicken Tortilla Soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Packed with tender shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and flavorful tomatoes in a perfectly spiced broth, this Mexican soup is an excellent way to add warmth and nutrition to your weeknight dinners.
The best part? This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families who want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re a fan of healthy soups, you might also love our Loaded Potato Soup Recipe or treat yourself after dinner with a slice of our Butter Pecan Pound Cake.
Why You Will Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup
Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for busy weekdays.
High in protein – keeps you full and satisfied.
Budget-friendly using pantry staples.
Customizable with your favorite toppings.
Family-friendly and loved by kids and adults alike.
If you’re searching for easy soup recipes, this chicken tortilla soup will check all your boxes while keeping your taste buds excited.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
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1 lb cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 jalapeño, diced (optional for heat)
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1 tsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
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4 cups chicken broth
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
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1/2 cup tomato sauce
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Juice of 1 lime
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Toppings:
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Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
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Sliced avocado
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Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
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Sour cream
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Fresh lime wedges
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Fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Directions
Sauté the Base:
In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and jalapeño, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Spices:
Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices and release their flavors.
Build the Soup:
Add shredded chicken, chicken broth, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Finish:
Stir in the lime juice and chopped fresh cilantro. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh lime wedges.
Tips and Variations
Make it spicier: Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Add veggies: Diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can add extra nutrients.
Use homemade tortilla strips: Cut corn tortillas into strips, lightly fry until crispy, and use them as toppings.
Meal prep friendly: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Storage Instructions
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Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
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Freezer: Cool the soup completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Time & Yield
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Yield: 6 servings
Nutrition (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~320 kcal
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Protein: 26g
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Carbohydrates: 27g
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Fat: 11g
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Fiber: 6g
Discover More Recipes:
- Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
- Ultimate Loaded Potato Soup
- Easy Coconut Blender Cake
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External Resources for Enhanced Authority
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate healthy dinner recipe for families looking for a delicious, quick, and nourishing meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It is highly customizable, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to warm you up on chilly evenings while providing a boost of protein.
Don’t forget to pin this recipe or share it with your friends looking for easy soup recipes that actually taste amazing. Pair it with crispy tortilla chips and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
For more healthy family meals and easy comfort food, check out our latest recipes on Brandirecipes to keep your meal planning simple and delicious.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Instructions:
- 1️⃣ Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and jalapeño, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- 2️⃣ Add Spices:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
- 3️⃣ Combine Ingredients:
- Add shredded chicken, chicken broth, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- 4️⃣ Simmer:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 5️⃣ Finish:
- Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- 6️⃣ Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with tortilla strips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges, and extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
For extra spice, add cayenne pepper or more jalapeño. Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience. Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: ~320 kcal Protein: 26g Carbohydrates: 27g Fat: 11g Fiber: 6g Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6