A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Bowl

If you’re looking for a comforting dish with bold flavors and a bit of a kick, this Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect choice. Bursting with spices, tender rotisserie chicken, and crispy homemade tortilla strips, this soup delivers an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine right to your table. Easy to make and loaded with fresh ingredients, it’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavors: With a combination of fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and aromatic spices, this soup is as close to traditional as it gets.
• Quick and Easy: Using shredded rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or toppings to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Season: It’s hearty enough for winter yet light enough to enjoy year-round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup jalapeño peppers, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 6 soft corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp adobo all-purpose seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tortilla Strips

Heat a shallow pan with about an inch of oil. Slice the corn tortillas into thin strips and fry them for about 2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Drain excess oil from the pan, leaving a thin coating. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the pan and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic, diced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro, stirring until fragrant.

3. Add the Spices

Stir in the chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and adobo seasoning. Let the spices toast slightly in the pan to enhance their flavor.

4. Incorporate the Tomato Paste

Mix in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, ensuring it’s well combined with the aromatic mixture.

5. Build the Soup

Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and stir to deglaze the pan. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and let the soup simmer on medium-low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy tortilla strips. For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle additional chopped cilantro on top.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Shallow frying pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle
• Medium-sized pot
• Paper towels (for draining tortilla strips)

Tips and Tricks

• Control the Heat: For a milder soup, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeños. For more heat, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a richer texture.
• Toppings Galore: Add diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime for extra layers of flavor.
• Homemade Stock: If you have time, use homemade chicken stock for an even deeper flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken stock and rotisserie chicken for vegetable broth and sautéed mushrooms or tofu.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Keep the tortilla strips separate to maintain their crispness and add them just before serving.

Food and Drink Pairings

Pair this flavorful soup with:

• Sides: Warm cornbread, a simple green salad, or guacamole and chips.
• Drinks: A refreshing margarita, chilled cerveza (beer), or a tall glass of iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup (without the tortilla strips) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Corn tortillas are traditional and provide the best flavor and texture for the strips, but flour tortillas can work in a pinch.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Leave the seeds in the jalapeños, add more cayenne pepper, or garnish with sliced fresh chili peppers for extra heat.

Call to Action

This Authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as a starter for a party, it’s always a hit. If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes. Happy cooking!