Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Photo: Uncut Recipes

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A few weeks ago, I went to the supermarket to buy some groceries, with a clear plan in mind. As I walked through the bustling aisles, my eyes scanned the shelves for the usual items on my list. However, fate had a delightful surprise in store for me that day.

Amidst the organized chaos of the store, something caught my eye—a stack of fresh tortillas, their warm, golden hue beckoning me closer. I couldn't resist their allure, and without a second thought, I reached out to pick up a pack. The possibilities swirled in my mind as I envisioned all the delectable dishes I could create with these versatile tortillas.

When I arrived home, the tantalizing aroma of those tortillas lingered in the air, igniting my culinary curiosity. It was then that a brilliant idea sparked: why not incorporate these tortillas into a soul-warming soup? The thought of their crispy texture and rich corn flavor mingling with savory broth and tender chicken was simply irresistible.

And so, with a sense of adventure and a passion for culinary exploration, I set out to create a soup that would captivate the senses and bring comfort to every spoonful. The result was a harmonious fusion of ingredients, where the tortillas, in all their glory, added a delightful crunch and a subtle corn-infused essence to the Chicken Tortilla Soup.

This recipe is a testament to the beauty of serendipity and the joys of culinary inspiration. So join me on this flavorful journey as we embrace the magic of tortillas and savor the extraordinary depths of flavor they bring to this cherished soup. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure bliss that will warm your heart and nourish your soul.

JUMP TO:

INGREDIENTS:

When it comes to curating the perfect ingredients for your Chicken Tortilla Soup, let me share some exclusive insights that chefs swear by:

Boneless Chicken Breast Half: To achieve a tender and succulent chicken, choose air-chilled chicken breasts. Air-chilled chicken is known for its superior flavor and texture compared to water-chilled counterparts. Look for locally sourced or organic chicken for the best quality.

Avocado: For an indulgent and buttery experience, select Hass avocados. These avocados have a creamy texture and rich flavor that beautifully complements the soup. Choose avocados that yield to gentle pressure and have a dark, pebbled skin.

Condensed Chicken Broth: Elevate the taste of your soup by making your own homemade condensed chicken broth. Simmer chicken bones, aromatic vegetables like celery, onions, and carrots, along with a bouquet garni of fresh herbs. Strain the broth to achieve a deep, complex flavor base.

Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano canned crushed tomatoes for their exceptional quality and sweetness. These Italian tomatoes are prized for their meaty texture and low acidity, which adds a distinct flavor to your soup.

Remember, these insider tips ensure that your Chicken Tortilla Soup reaches the highest level of culinary excellence. Feel free to experiment and adapt these recommendations based on your culinary expertise and desired flavor profile.

MAIN STEPS:

Simmering Duration: While the recipe suggests simmering for 5 to 10 minutes, don't be afraid to extend the simmering time to allow the ingredients to meld together and develop richer flavors. A longer simmer can intensify the taste and result in a more flavorful and satisfying soup.

Seasoning Technique: Take care during the sautéing step when cooking the onion and garlic. Gentle cooking over medium heat helps to coax out their natural sweetness and aroma. Avoid high heat, as it may lead to quick browning and a stronger, potentially bitter taste.

Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to get creative with ingredient substitutions based on your preferences and dietary needs. For example, you can swap out the green chile peppers for jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Customize the recipe to suit your taste buds.

SERVED WITH:

Here are 10 dishes from various cuisines that can be paired with Chicken Tortilla Soup:

Quesadillas (Mexico): These cheesy and flavorful folded tortilla sandwiches are a perfect appetizer or side dish to complement the Mexican-inspired flavors of the soup.

Guacamole and Chips (Mexico): A classic Mexican dip made with ripe avocados, lime juice, and spices, served with crispy tortilla chips. It adds a refreshing and creamy element to the meal.

Cornbread (United States): This slightly sweet and savory bread made with cornmeal is a popular side dish in American cuisine. Its hearty texture and corn flavor pair well with the soup.

Cilantro Lime Rice (Mexico): A vibrant and fragrant rice dish cooked with fresh cilantro and lime juice. It adds a zesty and aromatic element to balance the flavors of the soup.

Tres Leches Cake (Mexico): A moist and decadent sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three milks (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream). It serves as a delightful dessert to end the meal on a sweet note.

Margarita (Mexico): A classic Mexican cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. Its tangy and refreshing flavors complement the spiciness of the soup.

Gazpacho (Spain): A chilled tomato-based soup made with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions. It can be served as a starter alongside the Chicken Tortilla Soup, offering a contrast in temperature and flavor.

Churros (Spain/Mexico): Fried dough pastries dusted with cinnamon sugar, served with a warm chocolate dipping sauce. These indulgent treats make for a delightful dessert or snack option to enjoy alongside the soup.

These dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures that can enhance your dining experience when paired with the Chicken Tortilla Soup.

ALTERNATIVES:

If you're in the mood to explore alternative dishes while still savoring the flavors of some of the key ingredients in Chicken Tortilla Soup, here are 10 delectable options from around the world:

Arepas (Venezuela/Colombia): These cornmeal patties are a staple in South American cuisine. They can be filled with ingredients such as shredded chicken, black beans, avocado, and cheese, offering a delicious handheld meal.

Enchiladas Verdes (Mexico): A popular Mexican dish consisting of tortillas filled with shredded chicken, smothered in a tangy green salsa made with tomatillos and topped with cheese. It's baked until golden and served with rice and beans.

Tom Kha Gai (Thailand): A fragrant Thai soup made with coconut milk, chicken, galangal, lemongrass, and lime leaves. It offers a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and aromatic flavors.

Corn and Black Bean Salad (International): A refreshing salad made with black beans, sweet corn kernels, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, tossed in a zesty lime dressing. It can be served as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course.

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl (United States/Mexico): A hearty and flavorful rice bowl featuring seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, black beans, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. It offers a complete and balanced meal in a single bowl.

Chicken Tamale Pie (United States/Mexico): A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of tamales and Chicken Tortilla Soup. It features a cornbread topping over a filling of shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce.

Chicken and Corn Chowder (United States): A rich and creamy soup made with chicken, corn kernels, potatoes, onions, and herbs. It's perfect for cooler days and provides a comforting blend of flavors and textures.

Chicken Tostadas (Mexico): Crispy fried tortillas topped with shredded chicken, refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and your choice of salsa or guacamole. They are versatile and customizable, making them a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Mexican Street Corn (Mexico): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, and crumbled cheese. It's a popular street food dish that combines smoky, tangy, and savory flavors.

These alternative dishes offer a diverse range of culinary experiences while incorporating some of the key ingredients found in Chicken Tortilla Soup. From international classics to regional specialties, they showcase the versatility and global appeal of these ingredients.

HISTORY:

Chicken Tortilla Soup has a captivating history rooted in the diverse culinary tapestry of Mexico. While its exact origins remain unknown, this beloved dish emerged as a flavorful creation born out of experimentation with traditional tortilla-based soups. Mexican home cooks skillfully combined leftover ingredients to concoct a nourishing and soul-satisfying soup.

With its cultural significance deeply ingrained in Mexican traditions, Chicken Tortilla Soup symbolizes nourishment, comfort, and community. It brings families together, fostering togetherness as stories are shared over steaming bowls of this flavorful soup.

Over time, Chicken Tortilla Soup transcended borders, captivating palates around the world. Mexican restaurants in the United States played a vital role in its global popularity, introducing the soup to a broader audience and inspiring creative adaptations. Chefs and home cooks infused their own regional influences, resulting in delightful variations of the classic recipe.

Today, Chicken Tortilla Soup holds a cherished place in global cuisine. Its universal appeal lies in the harmonious blend of tender chicken, tangy tomatoes, aromatic spices, and the satisfying crunch of tortilla chips. It has become a beloved dish, whether enjoyed as a comforting meal or as an enticing starter to a Mexican-inspired feast.

TIPS:

Build flavor with a homemade stock: Instead of using store-bought condensed chicken broth, create a rich and flavorful stock from scratch by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and aromatics. This homemade stock will add depth and complexity to your soup.

Roast the vegetables: For an extra layer of smoky flavor, roast the onions, garlic, and tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This will bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Use dried chiles for depth: Consider incorporating dried chiles like ancho or guajillo in addition to the fresh green chile peppers. Toast and rehydrate them before blending them into a paste or adding them to the soup. This will impart a deep, earthy flavor and complexity.

Make your own tortilla strips: Instead of using store-bought tortilla chips, make your own crispy tortilla strips. Cut fresh corn tortillas into thin strips and fry them until golden and crisp. Season with salt and spices of your choice for a homemade garnish with superior taste and texture.

Ingredients:

Conversions and Servings: Cups (1 Person) Cups (2 People) Cups (3 People) Cups (4 People) Cups (5 People) Cups (6 People) Cups (8 People) Imperial (1 Person) Imperial (2 People) Imperial (3 People) Imperial (4 People) Imperial (5 People) Imperial (6 People) Imperial (8 People) Metric (1 Person) Metric (2 People) Metric (3 People) Metric (4 People) Metric (5 People) Metric (6 People) Metric (8 People)

Directions:

01 - Begin by heating oil in a stockpot over medium heat until it shimmers and becomes hot.

02 - Introduce the finely chopped onion and garlic to the pot, gently sautéing them until they turn soft and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

03 - Enhance the flavors by incorporating chili powder and oregano, infusing the dish with a delightful spicy and aromatic essence.

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04 - Combine the crushed tomatoes, condensed broth, and water, creating a flavorful base that will serve as the heart of the soup. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil.

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05 - Once the soup reaches a boiling point, adjust the heat to a simmer and let it gently bubble for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.

06 - Introduce the hearty ingredients into the pot: black beans, tender cooked chicken, sweet corn, hominy, vibrant chile peppers, and fresh cilantro. Allow them to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring they blend perfectly with the rest of the soup.

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07 - Carefully ladle the soup into individual serving bowls, ensuring each portion is generous and satisfying.

08 - Elevate the presentation and taste by garnishing the soup with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips, creamy avocado slices, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. These final touches will add texture, creaminess, and a burst of flavor to every spoonful.

Photo: Uncut Recipes

Notes:

- Alternative Ingredients:
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding or substituting ingredients.
For example, you can include diced bell peppers, shredded cooked chicken, or even diced tomatoes for added variety.
Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder and chile peppers according to your preference.

- Storing:
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency.

- Serving Suggestions:
Serve the soup with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavors.

- Preparation Efficiency:
To save time, consider prepping some ingredients in advance, such as chopping onions and garlic, cooking and shredding chicken, or even rinsing and draining the beans and hominy.
This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to suit your serving needs.
Remember to adjust the seasoning and ingredients according to your taste preferences. Enjoy the delicious and comforting Chicken Tortilla Soup!

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Written by: Uncut Recipes

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