The BEST Chicken Tortilla Soup

The BEST Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Comforting Classic

If there’s one dish that’s perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or a comforting lunch, it’s Chicken Tortilla Soup. There’s something about the combination of tender chicken, spicy Broth, and crispy tortilla strips that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual family meal or making it to impress guests, this soup has a way of making everyone feel at home.

This recipe is the best chicken tortilla soup you’ll ever make—trust me on this one. It’s packed with flavor, super easy to put together, and perfect for any time of year. Let’s dive into why this soup is such a crowd-pleaser and how you can make it in your kitchen.

Why This Is The BEST Chicken Tortilla Soup

What makes this chicken tortilla soup the best? It’s the perfect balance of flavors: the richness of the Broth, the tender chunks of chicken, the crunch of crispy tortillas, and the fresh toppings that bring it all together. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze.

This recipe is not just the best chicken tortilla soup you’ll ever make, it’s also super customizable. Feel free to add extra veggies, spice it up with jalapeños, or load up on your favorite toppings. It’s versatile, comforting, and downright delicious, making it perfect for any palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need to make the BEST chicken tortilla soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies (optional for extra heat)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a nice depth of flavor)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 cup tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and extra tortilla strips for crunch

How to Make The BEST Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. Start by Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This is where your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

2. Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), green chilies (if using), cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Let it all simmer together for about 2 minutes to bring out the spices’ flavors.

3. Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This is when the flavors start to meld together, and your soup begins to come to life.

4. Add the Chicken and Corn

Stir in the shredded chicken and corn, and continue simmering for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through. If you’re using leftover chicken, this is a great way to use up any extras from a previous meal. You’ll want that chicken to soak up all the delicious flavors in the Broth.

5. Add Lime Juice and Season

Once the soup has simmered, stir in the fresh lime juice for a little bit of tangy brightness. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips. You can also add any of the following toppings to take it to the next level: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, cilantro, and extra lime wedges for squeezing. You can’t go wrong with these fresh garnishes!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. It’s warming, hearty, and packed with layers of flavor. The combination of tender chicken, spicy Broth, and crunchy tortilla strips creates the perfect balance of textures. It’s also a very adaptable recipe—add extra spice if you love heat, or make it mild if you’re feeding kids. The toppings are what truly elevate this soup, making each bite customizable to your tastes.

Another thing to love about this recipe is how quick and easy it is. In under an hour, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal on the table. Plus, it makes excellent leftovers! You can store it in the fridge for a couple of days or freeze it for a later date. With such convenience, there’s no reason not to give it a try!

Final Thoughts: A Soup You’ll Keep Coming Back To

Whether you’re a tortilla soup newbie or a long-time fan, this BEST Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is sure to win a spot in your regular dinner rotation. It’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and customizable to suit your cravings. Plus, the toppings make it feel like a festive meal, no matter the occasion.

Give it a try—this chicken tortilla soup is not just a recipe, it’s a culinary experience. It will quickly become your go-to for those days when you just want something hearty and comforting. Enjoy!