Tortilla soup has long been a favorite comfort food with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. California Pizza Kitchen’s version takes this classic to a whole new level by blending smoky chipotle peppers with fresh vegetables and tender chicken. It’s the perfect bowl to warm us up on a chilly day or to enjoy as a flavorful starter for any meal.
Ingredients
To make the California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup, we gather fresh, bold ingredients that build its rich and smoky flavor. Below are the essential components that bring this comforting soup to life.
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Garnishes and Toppings
- Crispy corn tortilla strips (about 1 cup)
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
- Sour cream or Mexican crema (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Black beans | 1 cup, rinsed | Adds texture and protein |
| Diced green chilies | 1 can (4 oz) | Boosts heat and flavor |
| Red bell pepper | 1, diced | Adds sweetness and color |
| Fresh oregano leaves | 1 teaspoon | Enhances herbaceous notes |
Each ingredient contributes to the robust smoky essence and the vibrant, hearty character of our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup. We suggest prepping all components before starting the cooking process to ensure smooth and efficient preparation.
Equipment Needed
To craft our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup with authentic flavors and ease, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures we maintain consistent heat, proper blending of flavors, and final presentation.
- Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: Use a heavy-bottomed pot to evenly sauté ingredients like onion, garlic, and jalapeño, and to simmer the broth without scorching.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife helps us quickly and safely chop vegetables and shred the chicken.
- Cutting Board: Essential for efficient prep while keeping ingredients organized.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision with items like chicken broth and spices ensures balanced flavor.
- Ladle: For serving the soup cleanly and comfortably.
- Blender or Immersion Blender (Optional): If we want a smoother consistency, blending a portion of the soup can deepen the texture.
- Mixing Bowls: Helpful for prepping ingredients such as shredded chicken or diced vegetables before adding them to the soup.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Silicone Spoon: For stirring the soup while cooking, preventing scratching on pots.
- Serving Bowls and Garnish Tools: To complete the experience, we’ll need bowls and utensils to add final toppings like tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Stockpot/Dutch Oven | Sauté vegetables and simmer soup |
| Chef’s Knife | Chop vegetables and shred chicken |
| Cutting Board | Organized ingredient prep |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate measuring for broth and spices |
| Ladle | Serving soup efficiently |
| Blender/Immersion Blender | Optional: blend soup for smoother texture |
| Mixing Bowls | Ingredient pre-mixing |
| Wooden/Silicone Spoon | Stirring without damaging cookware |
| Serving Bowls & Garnish Tools | Presenting finished soup with toppings |
Using these tools, we streamline our process and bring out the best in the California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup, achieving the perfect smoky, rich flavor profile with every batch.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, we focus on precise preparation to ensure our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup turns out perfectly rich and flavorful. Meticulous prep streamlines our process and enhances every bite.
Preparing the Vegetables
We start by gathering and prepping the fresh vegetables that form the backbone of the soup’s vibrant flavor:
- Onion: Peel and finely chop 1 medium yellow onion to release its sweetness and aroma.
- Garlic: Mince 3 cloves for a pungent but balanced foundation.
- Jalapeño: Remove seeds (for less heat) and finely dice 1 jalapeño pepper to add a subtle kick.
- Chipotle Peppers: Chop 2 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, providing that signature smoky heat.
- Fresh Cilantro (optional): Roughly chop 1/4 cup for garnish and bright herbal notes.
| Vegetable | Preparation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Onion | Finely chopped | Base flavor |
| Garlic | Minced | Aroma and depth |
| Jalapeño | Seeded and diced | Mild heat |
| Chipotle Peppers | Chopped (in adobo sauce) | Smoky spiciness |
| Fresh Cilantro | Roughly chopped (optional for garnish) | Freshness and color |
Carefully prepping the vegetables ensures we unlock maximum flavor depth in every spoonful.
Cooking the Chicken (if applicable)
To achieve tender, flavorful shredded chicken that infuses our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup with heartiness, follow these steps:
- Select 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein.
- Simmer the chicken gently in 4 cups of chicken broth seasoned lightly with salt. Keep heat medium-low to maintain moisture.
- Cook uncovered until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and let it cool slightly before shredding with two forks.
- Reserve the broth to intensify the soup base.
| Step | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Select Chicken | 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Lean, tender meat |
| Simmer Broth | 4 cups chicken broth, salted | For cooking and flavor |
| Cook Time | 15-20 minutes | Until 165°F internal temp |
| Shred Chicken | Use two forks after cooling | Adds texture to soup |
| Reserve Broth | Keep for soup base | Enhances rich flavor |
Properly cooking and shredding the chicken makes the soup satisfyingly hearty without sacrificing tenderness or flavor balance.
Instructions
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to create the California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup with its signature smoky flavor and hearty texture. Each phase is designed to build layers of taste that come together perfectly.
Making the Soup Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
- Add 1 medium onion, diced and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 diced jalapeño. Cook for 1 minute to release their aromatic oils.
- Add 2 finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and sauté for another minute to deepen the smoky undertone.
Simmering the Soup
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors from the peppers and aromatics to meld beautifully.
“Simmering gently is key to coax out that deep, smoky flavor that defines the California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup.”
Adding Chicken and Corn
- Add 2 cups shredded cooked chicken to the pot.
- Stir in 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn kernels.
- Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the chicken absorbs the rich broth flavors while the corn adds natural sweetness.
Final Seasoning Adjustments
- Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference.
- For extra heat or texture, consider stirring in ½ cup black beans or ¼ cup diced green chilies.
- Remove from heat and serve piping hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, crispy tortilla strips, and a wedge of lime for that authentic California Pizza Kitchen touch.
| Step | Key Ingredients | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Making the Soup Base | Olive oil, onion, garlic, jalapeño, chipotle peppers | 6-7 minutes | Develop aromatic and smoky foundation |
| Simmering the Soup | Chicken broth | 15 minutes | Blend and deepen flavors |
| Adding Chicken & Corn | Shredded chicken, corn | 10 minutes | Infuse heartiness and sweetness |
| Final Seasoning | Salt, pepper, optional beans/chilies | As needed | Perfect and customize flavor |
This detailed instruction guide ensures our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup will come together with bold, smoky, and savory notes true to the original recipe.
Directions for Serving
Serving California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup calls for thoughtful presentation and complementary flavors to fully appreciate its smoky richness and vibrant spices. Here’s how we recommend you plate and enhance this delicious dish.
How to Serve
To serve our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup perfectly, ladle the hot soup into deep bowls to showcase its hearty texture and colorful ingredients. Ensure the soup is steaming to highlight its warming qualities. For an elevated experience:
- Use bowls that retain heat well, such as ceramic or stoneware.
- Serve with a sturdy spoon to scoop up the ample toppings and broth.
- Pair the soup with warm, soft tortillas or tortilla chips on the side to echo the signature flavors.
We find serving in individual portions rather than a communal bowl enhances the dining experience by keeping the toppings crisp and vibrant.
Recommended Garnishes and Toppings
Toppings elevate the tortilla soup by adding texture and complementary taste layers. Below is a table highlighting the best garnishes, their purposes, and serving tips:
| Garnish | Purpose | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Crispy Tortilla Strips | Adds crunch and authenticity | Sprinkle generously just before serving |
| Fresh Cilantro | Provides fresh herbaceous brightness | Chop finely and scatter on top |
| Lime Wedges | Adds bright acidity for balance | Serve on the side as a squeeze-on garnish |
| Diced Avocado | Adds creaminess and richness | Use ripe avocado and add just before serving |
| Shredded Cheese | Melts slightly adding a savory layer | Sprinkle on hot soup, allowing melting |
| Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt | Adds cool tang that contrasts spice | Dollop on top for visual and flavor appeal |
| Sliced Jalapeños | Adds extra heat for spice lovers | Use sparingly unless you want a spicy kick |
Including these garnishes offers an authentic and indulgent way to enjoy the soup as served at California Pizza Kitchen. We recommend preparing the garnishes in small bowls so that each guest can customize their serving to their preference.
“Perfect presentation and fresh garnishes turn a simple tortilla soup into a memorable dining experience,” and with these directions, our version captures precisely that.
By thoughtfully arranging these elements, our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup will embody both the comforting and bold qualities that make it a favorite starter or main dish.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy the California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup without the last-minute rush, planning ahead is essential. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to ensure the soup maintains its rich, smoky flavor and vibrant freshness.
Prepare and Store the Soup Base
Start by making the soup base as detailed in the recipe. After sautéing the onion, garlic, jalapeño, and chipotle peppers in olive oil and simmering with the chicken broth, allow the mixture to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate | Up to 3 days | Cool completely before sealing |
| Freeze | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe containers |
“Cooling the soup base before storing prevents condensation from diluting the flavors.”
Cook and Shred the Chicken in Advance
We recommend cooking and shredding the chicken ahead of time as well. Store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze separately. This lets us add tender, ready-to-use chicken to the soup with minimal effort.
Prep Fresh Garnishes Early
Though we want to serve fresh garnishes like cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, shredded cheese, and crispy tortilla strips, some prep work can be done the day before. For example:
- Chop cilantro and store it in a damp paper towel inside an airtight container.
- Slice limes and keep them in a sealed bag in the fridge.
- Prepare tortilla strips and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispiness.
Reheating and Final Assembly
When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup base and shredded chicken over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid boiling to preserve the depth of flavor.
Add fresh corn and any optional ingredients at this stage for texture and vibrancy. Ladle into warm bowls and garnish with the prepped fresh toppings for the signature California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup experience.
Pro Tip: “Keep crispy garnishes separate and add them right before serving to maintain their crunch.”
By following these make-ahead tips we guarantee a seamless cooking experience and an unforgettable bowl of California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage and reheating are essential to maintain the vibrant flavors and textures of our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup. Follow these steps to enjoy every bowl as fresh and delicious as when it was first made.
Storing the Soup
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the soup into airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent odors.
- Label each container with the date to keep track of storage times.
- Store the soup in the refrigerator if consuming within 3 to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Maximum Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | Keep at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe container or bag | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge overnight |
Reheating Guidelines
- When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- For stovetop reheating, pour the soup into a saucepan and heat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate smoky flavors and prevent the chicken from drying out.
- For microwave reheating, cover the soup loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
- Add any optional fresh garnishes such as crispy tortilla strips, cilantro, or avocado just before serving to maintain their texture and vibrancy.
Tips for Best Results
“Reheating slowly and gently unlocks the full depth of the chipotle-infused broth, ensuring every spoonful bursts with smoky richness.”
- If the soup thickens after refrigeration or freezing, stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the desired consistency.
- Store garnishes separately to keep them fresh and crisp.
- For a quick fresh touch, squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup after reheating.
By following these Storage and Reheating Instructions, we guarantee our California Pizza Kitchen Tortilla Soup will remain as flavorful and satisfying as the first time you ladled it into your bowl.
Conclusion
Crafting California Pizza Kitchen’s Tortilla Soup at home brings a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors to our table. With the right ingredients and prep, we can easily recreate this comforting dish that warms both body and soul. Whether served as a hearty meal or a flavorful appetizer, it’s a recipe worth keeping in our culinary rotation.
By following the steps and tips shared, we ensure each bowl delivers the rich taste and satisfying texture that make this soup so memorable. Plus, the flexibility with garnishes and make-ahead options means we can enjoy it anytime without hassle. Let’s savor every spoonful and make this tortilla soup a go-to favorite in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes California Pizza Kitchen’s tortilla soup special?
California Pizza Kitchen’s tortilla soup features smoky chipotle peppers, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken, creating a bold, rich flavor that elevates the traditional recipe with a smoky, savory twist.
What are the key ingredients in this tortilla soup?
Essential ingredients include olive oil, onion, garlic, jalapeño, chipotle peppers, chicken broth, shredded chicken, and optional add-ins like black beans and diced green chilies to enhance flavor and texture.
What equipment do I need to make this soup?
You need a large stockpot or Dutch oven, a chef’s knife, measuring cups, a ladle, and optionally a blender for smoother texture, along with mixing and serving bowls for prep and presentation.
How should I prepare the ingredients for the soup?
Chop onions, mince garlic, dice jalapeños and chipotle peppers, and cook then shred the chicken to ensure all ingredients contribute balanced flavor and tenderness to the soup.
What are the main steps to cook California Pizza Kitchen tortilla soup?
Sauté onion, garlic, jalapeño, and chipotles in olive oil, simmer with chicken broth, add shredded chicken and corn, season to taste, and garnish with cilantro, tortilla strips, and lime wedges.
How do I serve this tortilla soup for best presentation?
Serve in warm, deep bowls with warm tortillas or chips on the side. Add garnishes like crispy tortilla strips, cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this tortilla soup ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the soup base and cook/shred chicken in advance, store them properly in the fridge or freezer, and prep fresh garnishes a day before for an easy and quick final assembly.
How should I store and reheat leftover tortilla soup?
Cool the soup, store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding chicken broth if thickened; keep garnishes separate until serving.