Chicken Soppa
Chicken Soppa is a hearty, cheesy casserole featuring tender boiled chicken layered with tortillas, creamy sauce, cheese, and onions. Perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings, it offers rich flavors and satisfying textures that appeal to those who enjoy savory, cheesy dishes with a southwestern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the fryer chicken; remove meat from bones and save the broth.
- Blend the cream of chicken soup, milk, and chicken broth together to make the sauce.
- Dip the tortillas in hot Crisco oil until slightly softened.
- Layer a portion of tortillas in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle chopped onion, grated cheese, chopped green chilies, and chicken pieces over the tortillas.
- Pour some of the sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the fryer chicken with rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. Adding chopped green chilies enhances the flavor, making it more reminiscent of Chicken Tacos(Low-Fat). Make sure not to over-soak the tortillas in oil to maintain their integrity during layering.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Soppa pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or guacamole for a complete meal. You can also serve it with sour cream and salsa on the side for added flavor. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with Helen'S Tortilla Soup or some Spanish rice to complement the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Soppa contains roughly 564 calories, with 13g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 841mg per serving (37% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can replace cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce or use a can of creamy mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. This will still give the dish a creamy texture while slightly altering the taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
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).