Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of spicy chili, tender chicken, and crunchy tortilla chips. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or for serving at a gathering with friends and family.

History

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine, known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. It is believed to have originated in the southwestern United States, where Mexican and American culinary influences blend seamlessly.

Ingredients

1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) reduced sodium chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) undrained Mexican-style diced tomatoes
1 can (4.5 oz (128 g)) undrained diced mild green chilies
1 can (12 to 16 oz (454 g)) drained corn
1 can (10 to 12 oz (340 g)) drained chicken breast
1 cup unsalted, coarsely crumbled tortilla chips

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, bring the broth, tomatoes, and chilies to a boil.
Stir in corn; reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
Add chicken, stirring gently to prevent excessive breaking. Simmer for 1 minute until heated through.
Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with tortilla chips, stirring chips into hot soup.

Tip

Stir 2 tbsp of chopped fresh cilantro into the soup along with the chicken.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans.
For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeno pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add an extra kick of heat to the soup, consider adding a diced jalapeno pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

- For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.

- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of canned chicken breast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup with a side of avocado slices, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a flavorful Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup is to simmer the ingredients together to allow the flavors to meld. Be sure to stir gently to prevent the chicken from breaking apart.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned chicken breast, you can use cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken.

- If you don't have Mexican-style diced tomatoes, you can use regular diced tomatoes and add extra spices such as cumin and chili powder.

Make Ahead Tips

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a wedge of lime for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh green salad, or a warm piece of cornbread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup may contain allergens such as corn, chicken, and wheat (from tortilla chips). Please check the labels of canned ingredients for allergen information.

Summary

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for serving at a gathering with friends and family. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that my friend had given me years ago. As I turned the pages, my eyes landed on a vibrant picture of a steaming bowl of soup topped with crispy tortilla strips and chunks of tender chicken.

The colors and flavors in the photo seemed to leap off the page, and I knew I had to try making it myself. I read through the ingredients list and instructions, taking note of the spices and seasonings that gave the soup its bold and zesty flavor. I could practically taste the smoky chipotle peppers, tangy lime juice, and earthy cumin as I imagined the soup simmering on the stove.

Excited by the prospect of trying something new, I set out to gather all the ingredients I would need. I made a trip to the local market, picking out plump tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and juicy chicken breasts. I also grabbed a bag of dried chilies, a block of queso fresco, and a bunch of fresh cilantro to add the finishing touches to the dish.

Back in my kitchen, I set to work preparing the soup. I diced the vegetables, shredded the chicken, and soaked the dried chilies in hot water to soften them. As the aromas of garlic, onion, and spices filled the air, I felt a sense of satisfaction and contentment wash over me. Cooking has always been a source of joy and comfort for me, a way to express myself creatively and nourish those I love.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The flavors were even better than I had imagined - rich and spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes and a kick of heat from the chipotle peppers. I adjusted the seasonings, adding a pinch more salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.

When the soup was ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished each serving with a handful of crispy tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. I couldn't wait to share this delicious creation with my family and friends, confident that they would love it as much as I did.

As we sat down to eat, the soup was met with rave reviews. My husband declared it the best thing I had ever made, and my grandchildren eagerly slurped up every last drop. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing that I had created something truly special, a dish that brought joy and warmth to those I cared about.

Since that day, Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup has become a staple in my recipe repertoire. I have made it countless times, tweaking and refining the recipe to perfection. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that initial sense of wonder and excitement I felt when I first discovered it, and I am grateful for the joy and connection that cooking brings to my life.

So here's to good food, good friends, and the sense of wonder that comes from trying something new. May we always be open to new experiences and flavors, and may our tables be filled with delicious meals and happy memories. Cheers to Chili Chicken Tortilla Soup - a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart.