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–+ servings

Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup

Rose
This authentic chicken tortilla soup features a rich tomato-based broth, tender shredded chicken, warm Tex-Mex spices, and crispy tortilla strips. Comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • cutting board
  • chef’s knife
  • slotted spoon or tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp neutral cooking oil
  • 1 yellow or white onion, diced
  • 1 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1 liter low-sodium chicken broth
  • 400 g crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp cilantro stems, chopped
  • 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
  • 1 cup neutral oil for frying tortillas

Instructions
 

  • Cut corn tortillas into thin strips. Heat oil in a skillet and fry the strips in batches until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, season lightly with salt, and set aside.
  • In a large pot, heat a small amount of reserved tortilla oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and poblano pepper and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cilantro stems and cook until fragrant.
  • Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  • Pour in chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, corn, and shredded chicken. Stir well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
  • Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips and desired toppings such as cheese, avocado, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Use fire-roasted tomatoes for the best smoky flavor and don’t skip the fresh lime juice at the end—it brightens the entire soup. For extra heat, add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne. Tortilla strips can be fried, baked, or air-fried.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 26gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 2.1mg
Keyword authentic tortilla soup, chicken soup recipe, chicken tortilla soup, tex-mex soup
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