Go Back

Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup - Comforting, Zesty, and Easy

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Olive oil – for sautéing
  • Yellow onion, diced
  • Garlic, minced (3–4 cloves)
  • Jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
  • Ground cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Chicken broth or stock (low sodium preferred)
  • Crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes (canned)
  • Tomato paste (optional for richness)
  • Cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
  • Black beans, drained and rinsed
  • Corn kernels (frozen, fresh, or canned)
  • Lime juice (fresh)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Tortilla strips or chips for serving
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, sliced radishes, extra jalapeño, hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 1–2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook until soft and translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in garlic and jalapeño, and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Bloom the spices: Add cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a few grinds of black pepper. Stir for 30 seconds to wake up the spices without burning them.
  3. Add the base: Pour in chicken broth and add crushed or diced tomatoes. If using tomato paste, whisk in 1 tablespoon for a richer broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Build the body: Stir in black beans and corn. Simmer 10–12 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
  5. Add the chicken: Stir in shredded chicken and simmer another 5–7 minutes, just until heated through and tender. Avoid boiling hard so the chicken stays juicy.
  6. Finish with freshness: Turn off the heat. Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. This brightens the soup and balances the spices.
  7. Serve with crunch: Ladle into bowls. Top with tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, cheese, and anything else you like. Serve extra lime wedges on the side.