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Let me share my family's favorite Mexican-inspired soup that brings comfort and flavor together in one bowl! After trying countless tortilla soup recipes I finally perfected this version that combines tender shredded chicken fresh vegetables and those amazingly crispy tortilla strips. The first time I made this my spice-loving son said it was better than our favorite Mexican restaurant's version now it's our go-to comfort soup!
Why This Recipe Is Pure Magic
This isn't just another chicken soup! Each spoonful brings you layers of flavor from the tender chicken and sweet corn to those crispy tortilla strips and creamy avocado on top. Last weekend when I made this for our neighbors during a cold snap everyone asked for the recipe. Even my daughter who usually avoids spicy food keeps requesting it!
What You'll Need
- For The Soup Base:
- Good olive oil
- Fresh onion and garlic
- Jalapeño if you like heat
- Tender chicken breasts
- Canned tomatoes and sauce
- Rich chicken broth
- Sweet corn and black beans
- Fresh lime juice
- Your favorite spices
- For Those Crispy Strips:
- Fresh corn tortillas
- Oil for frying
- The Perfect Toppings:
- Creamy avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Extra lime wedges
Let's Start Cooking
- Creating Those Perfect Strips
- First let's make those tortilla strips! Whether you're frying or baking them getting them crispy is key. My kids love helping cut the tortillas into thin strips they say we're making confetti for the soup!
- Building The Base
- Next we sauté those aromatics until our kitchen smells amazing. That combination of onion garlic and jalapeño creates the perfect foundation. When we add the spices everything comes alive!
- The Magic Simmer
- Adding the chicken broth tomatoes and all those good ingredients then letting everything simmer together that's when the real magic happens. The house fills with the most incredible aroma!
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Making It Perfect
Want to know my secrets for the best tortilla soup? Don't skip making those fresh tortilla strips they make all the difference! Let the soup simmer long enough for the chicken to get super tender. And here's my favorite tip add the lime juice right at the end it brightens all the flavors perfectly!
Serving It Up
This soup is all about the toppings! I love setting up a little topping bar so everyone can customize their bowl. Some like it loaded with cheese and sour cream others keep it simple with just avocado and cilantro. For parties I keep the soup warm in the slow cooker and let everyone help themselves!
Saving Some For Later
This soup actually gets better the next day! Keep those tortilla strips separate though so they stay crispy. I often make a double batch and freeze portions perfect for busy weeknights. Just remember to add fresh toppings when serving the leftovers makes it taste like you just made it!
Mix It Up
Don't be afraid to make this recipe your own! Sometimes I use rotisserie chicken when I'm short on time. My vegetarian friend makes it with extra beans instead of chicken. Once I added fire-roasted corn absolute game changer! That's what makes cooking fun finding your perfect combination.
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Why This Recipe Matters
This soup has become more than just dinner in our house it's our comfort food with a kick! There's something so satisfying about creating a restaurant favorite at home especially when it brings everyone together around the table. My kids are learning about different flavors and spices helping choose toppings and watching how everything comes together.
The best part isn't just how delicious it is it's seeing everyone's faces light up as they customize their perfect bowl! Whether you're making it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering this soup never disappoints. And watching people discover they can make restaurant-quality Mexican food at home? That's what makes cooking so rewarding!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make the tortilla strips fresh when serving to keep them crispy.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken. Add it near the end of cooking since it's already cooked. You'll need about 2-3 cups of shredded chicken.
- → How spicy is this soup?
The heat level is mild to medium with one jalapeño. Remove the seeds for less heat, or add extra jalapeño if you like it spicier. The chili powder adds flavor more than heat.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well without the toppings. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Add fresh toppings when serving.
- → What can I substitute for corn tortillas?
You can use store-bought tortilla strips or chips instead. For a low-carb option, try crispy jicama strips or simply leave them out and add extra toppings.
Conclusion
A delicious and warming soup that brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and homemade tortilla strips in a single pot. Perfect for cold days and quick meals.