Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect cozy meal for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a simple recipe to feed a crowd, this soup delivers. Packed with tender shredded chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and zesty spices, each spoonful is a fiesta of textures and taste.

Topped with crispy tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro, this soup not only satisfies your hunger but also brightens up your table with vibrant color and bold flavors. It’s everything you love about Mexican cuisine, served up in a single bowl — quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prep.

---

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup checks all the boxes: quick, filling, flavorful, and budget-friendly. You can whip it up in just about 30 minutes with mostly pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken. With one pot and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for when you want something delicious without the hassle.

The flavor profile is bold but balanced, and it can be as spicy or mild as you prefer. The toppings add even more personality to the dish, allowing everyone to customize their own bowl. And leftovers? Even better the next day.

---

What Kind of Tortilla Chips Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, use thick, crunchy tortilla chips or homemade tortilla strips. They hold up better in the soup and don’t get soggy too fast. To make your own, just slice corn tortillas into strips, lightly brush with oil, and bake until golden and crisp. If you’re short on time, your favorite store-bought brand will do just fine—just make sure they’re sturdy enough to scoop!

---

Ingredients for the Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the soup’s rich, layered flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Cooked Shredded Chicken: This is the heart of the soup. Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe super quick and flavorful.
• Black Beans: Adds a creamy texture and boosts the protein, making the soup more filling.
• Corn Kernels: Brings sweetness and a pleasant pop in every bite.
• Diced Tomatoes (Fire-Roasted, if possible): Adds tang and depth. Fire-roasted tomatoes provide a subtle smokiness.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the soup base and infuses every ingredient with savory goodness.
• Onion & Garlic: These aromatics build a flavor foundation that ties the dish together.
• Chili Powder & Cumin: Essential spices that bring warmth and that classic Tex-Mex taste.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and helps carry the flavor of the spices.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, balancing and enhancing the overall flavor.
• Tortilla Strips: For topping. Crunchy contrast against the hearty soup.
• Sour Cream, Cilantro, and Lime Wedges: Optional garnishes that add creaminess, freshness, and brightness.

---

How To Make the Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Core Ingredients

Stir in chili powder and cumin, coating the onions and garlic. Then, pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, and corn. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Season with salt and pepper to your liking. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve hot and enjoy!

---

Serving and Storing This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This recipe generously serves 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep lunches. It pairs beautifully with simple sides or can stand alone as a full meal thanks to its protein-rich and veggie-packed ingredients.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the tortilla toppings) for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot, and add fresh toppings just before serving.

---

What to Serve With Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Warm Cornbread

A slightly sweet, crumbly cornbread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the flavorful broth.

Avocado Slices or Guacamole

Creamy avocado or guacamole brings richness that balances the soup’s spices.

Mexican Rice

Serve on the side or even spoon some into the bowl to make it extra hearty.

Fresh Green Salad

A crisp salad with a lime vinaigrette complements the warmth and spices of the soup.

Cheese Quesadillas

Melty cheese-filled tortillas are a great kid-friendly side that pairs perfectly.

Pickled Jalapeños or Veggies

Add a tangy bite to cut through the richness and bring some zing.

Tortilla Chips and Salsa

Simple and classic. Dip and crunch between spoonfuls of soup.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Yes! You can simmer raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the soup broth until fully cooked, then shred them directly in the pot. Just add 10-15 minutes of simmering time and check for doneness before shredding.

Is this soup spicy?
It has a mild to moderate kick, depending on the chili powder and tomatoes used. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. For a milder soup, cut back on the chili powder.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Add all ingredients (except toppings) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving and garnish as usual.

What other toppings work well for this soup?
Try shredded cheese, avocado chunks, sliced green onions, or even a splash of hot sauce. It’s a fun soup to customize with your favorite Tex-Mex flavors.

---

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rotisserie chicken or cook your own? Did you load it up with extra toppings?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.
Find more easy and flavorful ideas on my Meals We Share By Sally Pinterest.

---

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is everything you want in a comforting, quick meal. It’s full of texture, bold flavor, and is simple enough to make on a weeknight. Whether you’re serving it up for your family or meal prepping lunches for the week, it brings satisfying warmth and zesty flavor to every bowl.

Customizable and pantry-friendly, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget the toppings—they take it to the next level!

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?