If there’s one recipe I find myself coming back to time and again, it’s Chicken Tortilla Soup. Packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, tender chicken, sweet corn, and a tangy kick of lime, this comforting bowlful brings pure happiness to every bite. The best part? It’s easy, colorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly night or gathering friends for a casual dinner, Chicken Tortilla Soup never fails to please—just wait until you see how quickly everyone asks for seconds!

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Tortilla Soup lies in its simple ingredients—each one plays a delicious part in creating layers of flavor and texture. Fresh produce, pantry staples, and a handful of must-have toppings bring it all together for a bowl that’s as vibrant as it is crave-worthy.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics for a flavorful base.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): A savory starting point that brings sweet depth as it cooks.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with irresistible aroma and punch.
Jalapeño (seeded and diced): Provides a gentle heat—keep the seeds for extra spice if you’re feeling bold!
Red bell pepper (diced): Adds color, crunch, and just a hint of sweetness.
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, earthy flavor that signals classic Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers that signature smokiness and a subtle heat that ties the soup together.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends an irresistible smoky depth you’ll crave in every bite.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors into perfect balance.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the spice profile with a little zing.
Chicken broth (6 cups): Forms the hearty, soul-warming base of the soup. Low-sodium works great!
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 ounces): Adds tang and body—fire-roasted tomatoes work beautifully here if you have them.
Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Offer creaminess and protein, making this meal extra satisfying.
Corn kernels (1 cup, fresh or frozen): Bring pops of sweetness and golden color.
Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): The heart of Chicken Tortilla Soup; rotisserie chicken makes things quick and easy.
Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Sprinkled at the end for bright, herbaceous freshness.
Lime (juice of 1): A squeeze at the finish wakes up all the flavors.
Corn tortillas (6 small, cut into strips): Baked to golden perfection for that signature crunch.
Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup): Melts luxuriously over the hot soup for extra richness.
Avocado (sliced): Buttery slices make every spoonful special.
Sour cream: A dollop adds creaminess and subtle tang to round out each bowl.

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until everything is soft, fragrant, and just starting to caramelize. This mix forms a flavorful foundation for the entire Chicken Tortilla Soup experience, so don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Build the Spice Base

Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for 1 more minute. Toasting these spices in the oil releases their aromas and instantly deepens the flavor—it’s the secret to that distinctive Chicken Tortilla Soup aroma we love.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Bring the pot up to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 20 minutes. This gives all those gorgeous flavors time to meld and the tomatoes to soften, creating a savory, mouthwatering broth.

Step 4: Add Chicken, Cilantro, and Lime

Stir in the shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Simmer for another 5 minutes so the chicken can drink in all that flavor, and the citrus can freshen up the whole pot. This is when your kitchen will really start to smell like pure comfort!

Step 5: Bake the Tortilla Strips

While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla strips in one even layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until they turn beautifully golden and crisp. These crunchy strips are what set Chicken Tortilla Soup apart—don’t skip them!

Step 6: Serve with All the Fixings

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, then pile on the baked tortilla strips, a handful of shredded cheese, creamy avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream. It’s all about those toppings—they take every bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup from everyday to extraordinary.

How to Serve Chicken Tortilla Soup

Garnishes

No bowl of Chicken Tortilla Soup is complete without a mountain of crunchy tortilla strips, melting cheese, silky avocado slices, and a generous swirl of sour cream. For even more color and zing, sprinkle with extra chopped cilantro and an extra wedge of lime on the side.

Side Dishes

While this soup is plenty satisfying all on its own, I love to serve it alongside warm cornbread, a simple green salad, or a plate of roasted vegetables. Add a few lime wedges or extra jalapeño slices on the side for those who like it spicy, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a fiesta.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual gatherings, bring out the toppings bar! Set out bowls of cheese, tortilla strips, chopped jalapeños, avocado, and sour cream so everyone can build their perfect Chicken Tortilla Soup. Or serve the soup in smaller mugs or ramekins for a cozy appetizer during movie night or a game-day spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup tastes just as amazing the next day. Allow the soup to cool completely, then pour into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. I recommend storing tortilla strips separately so they stay crispy until serving.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to two months. When you crave a bowl, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for easy reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until piping hot, stirring occasionally. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just heat in short intervals and stir between each. Once hot, add your favorite toppings right before serving so they stay fresh and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sauté the onions, garlic, jalapeño, and bell pepper on the stovetop first for extra flavor, then transfer everything (except the toppings and tortilla strips) into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, adding the shredded chicken, cilantro, and lime juice during the last 30 minutes.

What’s the best kind of chicken to use?

Any cooked, shredded chicken will do! I often grab a rotisserie chicken from the store for ease, but leftover roasted or poached chicken works beautifully too. If you want to cook chicken specifically for this recipe, simmer boneless chicken breasts or thighs in the soup broth until cooked through, then shred and return to the pot.

How do I make Chicken Tortilla Soup gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially when you use pure corn tortillas for the strips. Just double-check that your chicken broth and any add-ins are labeled gluten-free, as some brands can have sneaky additives.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and swap the shredded chicken for an extra can of beans or sautéed mushrooms. The soup stays just as hearty and satisfying, with all the same bold flavors.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To make your Chicken Tortilla Soup milder, remove all the seeds from the jalapeño or skip it entirely. Looking for more spice? Leave those seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pot. Every bowl can be just as mild or fiery as you want.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser, it’s time to add Chicken Tortilla Soup to your rotation. It’s fun to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to bring smiles around your table. Grab your ladle and your favorite toppings—you’re about to discover a new weeknight favorite!