Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, vegetables, and warm spices in a rich broth. Topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and fresh cilantro, this soup offers a delightful contrast of textures and a burst of zesty flavor. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something spicy and satisfying. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, this soup brings a little bit of Mexico to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
- Vegetable oil (for frying the tortillas)
Optional toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add spices and broth: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and cook for another minute. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fry the tortilla strips: In a small skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the tortilla strips in batches until they are golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips. Add your favorite toppings such as avocado, cheese, sour cream, and extra cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
This Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time you’re craving a warm and zesty dish!
