Chicken And Cheese Tortilla Soup
A hearty, flavorful chicken and cheese tortilla soup featuring tender chicken, corn, beans, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken and chicken broth in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to simmer and add corn, garbanzo beans, two cups of broken tortilla strips, salsa, and seasoning.
- Heat the mixture thoroughly.
- Before serving, garnish with cheese and remaining one cup of tortilla strips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can mix in some diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa verde. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for extra beans or grilled vegetables, making sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside quesadillas or chips with guacamole. This dish is also great for meal prep or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra broth if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving directly as it can lead to uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Cheese Tortilla Soup contains roughly 604 calories, with 31g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1133mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken breasts. Simply cook them in the broth until fully cooked, then shred or cube before adding the other ingredients. This will enhance the flavor of the broth as it simmers with the chicken.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure the tortilla strips are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options. You can also easily make your own with corn tortillas, which will work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth if necessary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).