Description
Comforting and flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup featuring tender shredded chicken, smoky spices, black beans, corn, fresh tomatoes, and crisp tortilla strips. This hearty and healthy soup is easy to prepare in under an hour and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or plant-based protein options for a vibrant, nourishing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or canned (rinsed)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Fresh lime juice, from 1 lime
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Other
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)
- 6 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Finely chop the onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Shred the cooked chicken breast and gather all spices, beans, and other ingredients for smooth cooking.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes, creating a flavorful base.
- Add spices and tomatoes: Stir in smoked paprika and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Let the spices toast lightly before adding the diced tomatoes to bring out the smoky richness.
- Simmer the broth: Add the broth or water, black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes to meld flavors and tenderize the ingredients.
- Adjust texture and seasoning: Whisk in the natural gelling agent if desired to enhance consistency. Add fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper to taste, balancing the savory and bright flavors.
- Prepare tortilla strips: Cut corn tortillas into thin strips and toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown for the perfect crunchy topping.
- Serve: Ladle hot soup into bowls, garnish with toasted tortilla strips and fresh cilantro, then enjoy immediately for the best comforting experience.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken such as rotisserie chicken for quick preparation and enhanced flavor.
- Toast spices first to deepen their aroma and smoky taste.
- Add fresh lime juice at the end to brighten and balance richness.
- Do not skip toasting the tortilla strips to maintain perfect crunchiness.
- Customize spice levels or add extra vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Chicken Tortilla Soup, Comfort Food, Smoky Soup, Gluten Free Soup, Easy Soup Recipe, Healthy Soup
