Craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal that’s also quick to make? Look no further than this Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe, inspired by the vibrant flavors of El Torito. This easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. It's a delicious dish brimming with healthy ingredients and customizable to your liking, making it a family favorite in no time. Get ready to transport your taste buds to sunny Mexico!
Ingredients: You'll need these simple ingredients for this healthy meal
This recipe is designed to be easily adaptable to your pantry staples. Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Shredded cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
This easy recipe is perfect for even the newest home cooks. Follow these simple instructions for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Serve it Up: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips, lime wedges, and shredded cheese (if desired).
Tips and Variations for a Truly Customized Dish
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. For a milder soup, omit it entirely. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the soup.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the chicken with 1 (15 ounce) can of vegetarian chili or 2 cups of cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier meal, transfer all ingredients (except toppings) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This Chicken Tortilla Soup is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. It's a satisfying and delicious homemade cooking experience, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this taste of Mexico from the comfort of your own kitchen!