Nearly Famous Chicken Tortilla Soup
It would seem that everyone has their own version of tortilla soup. Some are thick and cheesy; some thin and watery. I prefer a thin, but not watery, broth-based tortilla soup with LOTS of veggies and toppings. I developed this recipe years ago and would venture to say it is my MOST requested recipe. Both to personal friends or blog readers, I email this recipe constantly! So here it is, ASP’s nearly famous Chicken Tortilla Soup, have at it!
It would seem that everyone has their own version of tortilla soup. Some are thick and cheesy; some thin and watery. I prefer a thin, but not watery, broth-based tortilla soup with LOTS of veggies and toppings. I developed this recipe years ago and would venture to say it is my MOST requested recipe. Both to personal friends or blog readers, I email this recipe constantly! So here it is, ASP’s nearly famous Chicken Tortilla Soup, have at it!
- pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 3 cloves
- 1 -2 bay leaf
- 2/3 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 3/4 tablespoon cumin
- 2 carrots thinly sliced
- 2 skinless chicken breasts halved and thinly sliced
- 1 -2 avocado diced
- 16 ounces tortilla chips
- Carbohydrate 86.7514484434481 g
- Cholesterol 1001.05575 mg
- Fat 217.184418323506 g
- Fiber 8.22222527892797 g
- Protein 268.705653815917 g
- Saturated Fat 59.0656142329523 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving(s) (1636g)
- Sodium 1363.42341048961 mg
- Sugar 78.5292231645201 g
- Trans Fat 18.4371364566877 g
- Calories 3439 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large stock pot, heat the oil over high.
- Add onions, 1/3 cup cilantro and garlic, sauté 3 minutes.
- Stir in tomatoes and spices, then bring to a boil.
- Add the broth, carrots and chicken.
- Return to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook another 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in half the cheese and 1 cup crushed tortilla chips.
- Ladle into bowls and top with remaining cheese, fresh cilantro, fresh avocado, and more tortilla chip pieces.
- Serves 4+.
- This is a great recipe for leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken. Just add it in at the very end to warm it up!
My Nearly Famous Chicken Tortilla Soup
As a busy mom, finding quick and easy meals that the whole family enjoys is always a challenge. But, there's one dish that always hits the spot – my Nearly Famous Chicken Tortilla Soup. Over the years, this recipe has become a staple in our home, requested countless times by friends and family alike. I've even sent this recipe out as email attachments, countless times, to everyone, it’s so popular. It’s not fussy, it uses ingredients that are usually easily available, and best of all, it’s completely customizable. So, everyone can add their favourite toppings!
What makes this soup so special? It's the perfect balance of flavors. The rich, savory broth is brimming with tender chicken, fresh vegetables and a gentle warmth from the spices. The crunch of tortilla chips adds a delightful textural contrast, while the creamy Monterey Jack cheese adds a comforting richness. It's a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s also so versatile, you can easily adjust it to your taste. Love it spicier? Add more cayenne pepper. Want a heartier soup? Add more chicken or beans. The possibilities are endless! It’s a fantastic recipe for using up leftover chicken, perfect after a roast!
This soup isn't just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make. The simple steps require minimal effort, allowing even the most inexperienced cooks to whip up a delicious bowl. The preparation time is minimal, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. I often make a big batch on the weekend, so that I can enjoy it throughout the week. I would often store it in containers in the refrigerator and just heat it up when needed. Then, it’s ready to be served within minutes! It’s also a great meal prep idea.
Beyond the convenience and deliciousness, there's something else that makes this soup so special. It represents gatherings, family dinners, and the warmth of a comforting meal. It's the food of memories, shared laughter, and those moments where everyone comes together over a delicious bowl. That's the magic of a good soup recipe, and this one is very special indeed. Try it out and let me know what you think in the comments.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder soup, omit it altogether.
- Chicken: Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Veggies: Add other vegetables like corn, black beans, or zucchini.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack.
- Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try sour cream, salsa, shredded lettuce, or chopped green onions.
I hope you love this recipe as much as my family and friends do. Enjoy!
