Description
Warm up with a bowl of Authentic Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup! Packed with smoky spices, tender chicken, and vibrant toppings, this comforting dish is perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Soup Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can fire roasted tomatoes with green chilis (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon mild chili powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 cups chicken stock
For Crispy Tortilla Strips:
- 4 corn tortillas, sliced into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or neutral oil)
- Pinch of salt
To Finish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Optional toppings: guacamole, cilantro, avocado slices, Mexican cheese blend, sour cream, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
Prepare the Soup Base:
- Combine chicken, onion, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, fire roasted tomatoes, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and chicken stock in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Stir to mix well.
- Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 6-7 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
2. Make the Crispy Tortilla Strips:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the tortilla strips with avocado oil and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the strips evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir in the fresh lime juice.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice, if desired.
4. Serve the Soup:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips.
- Add your favorite toppings, such as guacamole, cilantro, avocado slices, cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños.
Notes
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add more chili powder or jalapeños for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or extra beans and use vegetable broth.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This soup freezes well for easy reheating later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-7 hours (slow cooker)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican