Looking for a comforting, flavorful, and quick weeknight dinner? This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup with Rotisserie Chicken is your perfect go-to meal. It’s hearty, packed with bold Mexican flavors, and so simple to make, thanks to the convenience of using rotisserie chicken. Whether you’re in a rush or simply craving a warming, delicious dish, this recipe will deliver every time.
What Makes This Chicken Tortilla Soup So Special?
Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken not only speeds up the cooking process but also adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s the perfect meal for those busy nights when you want something tasty yet effortless. Plus, this soup is versatile – customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Rotisserie Chicken – Shredded, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the vegetables.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic – A must-have for that aromatic base.
- Bell Peppers – For added color and a subtle sweetness.
- Jalapeño – Optional, but adds a bit of heat.
- Diced Tomatoes – Preferably fire-roasted for a smoky flavor.
- Chicken Broth – The base of the soup, making it rich and savory.
- Corn – Adds sweetness and texture to the soup.
- Black Beans – For extra protein and heartiness.
- Tortilla Strips – Crunchy and perfect for topping the soup.
- Cumin – Essential for that warm, earthy flavor.
- Chili Powder – Adds a touch of spice and depth.
- Lime Juice – Brightens up the flavors.
- Cilantro – Fresh herbs to finish the dish.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste.
How to Make Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. Prep the Ingredients
Start by shredding your rotisserie chicken and setting it aside. You’ll need about 2-3 cups, depending on how hearty you want your soup. Dice the onion, garlic, and bell peppers, and if you’re using jalapeños, chop those as well. Having all your ingredients ready to go makes the cooking process seamless.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Then, add the garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This creates a beautiful base of flavors for the soup.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and the diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the mixture to a simmer. The fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth that complements the chicken and spices perfectly.
4. Season the Soup
Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. These spices create the classic tortilla soup flavor with warmth and just the right amount of spice. Stir everything well, allowing the spices to infuse the broth.
5. Add the Chicken, Corn, and Beans
Now, it’s time to add the shredded rotisserie chicken, corn, and black beans. Simmer the soup for about 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. The chicken will absorb the spices and broth, becoming tender and flavorful.
6. Finish with Lime Juice and Cilantro
Just before serving, squeeze in the juice of a lime and stir in fresh cilantro. The lime adds a bright, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the soup, while cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
7. Serve with Crunchy Tortilla Strips
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips for texture. You can buy pre-made strips or quickly fry your own from corn tortillas. Other delicious toppings include avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and extra cilantro.
Topping Ideas for Your Chicken Tortilla Soup
One of the best things about this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is how customizable it is. Here are some popular toppings that will take your soup to the next level:
- Avocado – Creamy, smooth, and a great contrast to the soup’s spicy warmth.
- Shredded Cheese – Adds richness and an extra layer of comfort.
- Sour Cream – A cool, tangy counterpoint to the soup’s spices.
- Fresh Jalapeños – For those who like an extra kick.
- Lime Wedges – Extra lime on the side for anyone who loves that citrusy pop.
- Fresh Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh herbs to brighten the bowl.
- Crushed Tortilla Chips – If you don’t have tortilla strips, crushed chips are a great alternative.
Why Rotisserie Chicken is Perfect for This Recipe
Rotisserie chicken is the star ingredient in this Chicken Tortilla Soup for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly convenient – no need to spend time cooking chicken from scratch. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup. The skin and bones of rotisserie chickens are often seasoned, which adds extra flavor to your soup without any extra effort. Plus, the chicken stays moist and tender, soaking up all the soup’s delicious flavors.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make the soup up to three days in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even tastier.
If you plan to freeze it, leave out the tortilla strips and toppings until you’re ready to serve. The soup freezes well for up to three months. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra broth to adjust the consistency.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup isn’t just delicious – it’s also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides a healthy source of protein, while black beans add fiber and additional protein. Bell peppers and corn contribute essential vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants, making this a wholesome, balanced meal. By adding toppings like avocado or a small dollop of sour cream, you can customize the soup to your nutritional preferences without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
How can I make the soup spicier?
To add extra heat, increase the amount of chili powder, or add more jalapeños or even a splash of hot sauce.
Can I use homemade chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! If you prefer cooking your own chicken, poach or roast chicken breasts and shred them for the soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini for more texture.
What can I serve with chicken tortilla soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread, a fresh green salad, or a simple cheese quesadilla.
Can I add rice to this soup?
Certainly! If you want a heartier meal, adding cooked rice is a great option. Just stir it in toward the end.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage.