Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup

Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and hearty soup that is perfect for those who love a little kick in their meals. This soup is packed with flavor from the combination of spices, cheese, and chicken, making it a satisfying meal on its own or as a starter for a larger meal.

History

The origins of Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the southwestern United States, where spicy and flavorful dishes are popular. This soup is a fusion of Mexican and American flavors, combining traditional ingredients like salsa and jalapenos with creamy cheese and chicken.

Ingredients

1 small onion, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
15 oz (425 g) can tomato sauce
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup medium chunky salsa
0.5 of a 4.5 oz (128 g) can chopped jalapeno peppers (for spicier soup, use whole can)
5 - 6 dashes of tabasco
1 tsp worcestershire sauce
2 tsp granulated sugar
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 cup all-purpose flour mixed with 0.5 cup water
1.5 lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken, cooked and cubed
1 cup heavy whipping cream
0.5 cup sour cream - low-fat okay
8 oz (227 g) velveeta cheese, cubed (low-fat okay)
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro - for garnish, optional

How to prepare

In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in oil over medium-high heat until soft.
Add the next 8 ingredients to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
Whisk the flour/water mixture into the soup.
Bring the contents of the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chicken to the pot and continue to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the cream, sour cream, and cheese to the pot; stir until the cheese has melted.
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with cilantro, if desired.

Hints and tips

To bake the chicken, preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil and season with Pampered Chef Southwestern Seasoning and cumin. Bake for 1 hour, then let it cool and cut into cubes.
For the Toys for Tots soup lunch, double the recipe.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or beans.
Add corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Top the soup with crushed tortilla chips or shredded cheese for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add even more flavor to the soup, try roasting the vegetables before adding them to the pot.

- For a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup in a blender before adding the chicken and cheese.

- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less jalapenos and tabasco sauce to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup with a side of tortilla chips, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients helps to develop the flavor of the soup.

- Simmering the soup on low heat allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the soup.

- Substitute the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a drizzle of hot sauce for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner with friends. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this soup is a nutritious and delicious option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a hot summer day and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had picked up at a garage sale. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a picture of a steaming bowl of Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup. My mouth watered at the sight of it, and I knew I had to try making it.

The recipe called for a list of ingredients that I had never used before - chipotle peppers, cumin, and monterey jack cheese. I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and couldn't wait to give it a shot. I decided to make it for dinner that night, and invited some friends over to taste test my creation.

I followed the recipe to a T, chopping vegetables, sautéing chicken, and simmering the soup until it was thick and hearty. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew I was onto something special. When my friends arrived, they were greeted with the delicious scent of the soup simmering on the stove. They couldn't wait to dig in.

As we sat around the table, savoring the first spoonfuls of the Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup, I could see the looks of delight on my friends' faces. The flavors were bold and spicy, with a hint of smokiness from the chipotle peppers. The cheese added a creamy richness that balanced out the heat perfectly. It was a hit.

Over the years, I have made this soup countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. I have added extra vegetables, experimented with different types of cheese, and even tried substituting shrimp for chicken. Each time I make it, the soup brings back memories of that first time I discovered it in that old cookbook.

One of my favorite memories of making this soup was when my grandchildren came to visit. They were young at the time, and I wasn't sure if they would appreciate the bold flavors of the Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup. But to my surprise, they loved it. They slurped up every last drop of the soup, asking for seconds and thirds.

As they grew older, my grandchildren would often request that I make the Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup when they came to visit. It became a tradition for us, something we looked forward to whenever they came over. We would spend the day in the kitchen together, chopping vegetables and stirring the pot, laughing and chatting as the soup simmered away.

I have shared this recipe with many friends and family members over the years, and it never fails to impress. The bold flavors and comforting warmth of the soup always bring people together, sparking conversations and creating memories. It has become a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that I turn to time and time again when I want to impress or comfort those I love.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the comforting smells of the Spicy Cheese Chicken Tortilla Soup simmering on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that brought so much joy and connection into my life. It may have been a chance discovery in an old cookbook, but it has become a cherished part of my culinary journey, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly thankful.