Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting classic that brings bold Tex-Mex flavors right to our table. Inspired by the popular On The Border style, this recipe combines tender chicken, smoky spices, and fresh ingredients for a vibrant and hearty meal. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when we want a quick yet satisfying dish with a little kick.
What makes this soup stand out is its balance of savory broth, crisp tortilla strips, and zesty toppings like avocado and lime. We love how easy it is to customize and how it fills the kitchen with inviting aromas. Whether we’re serving it as a starter or a main course, this Chicken Tortilla Soup hits all the right notes for flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border, we use fresh ingredients that bring out bold Tex-Mex flavors. Below is a detailed breakdown of the essential components.
Chicken and Broth
We start with tender chicken and a rich base that forms the heart of our soup.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (for juicy, lean protein)
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium for better control over saltiness)
- 1 cup water (to balance consistency)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to sauté and enhance flavor)
Vegetables and Spices
These ingredients build the depth and smoky warmth distinctive to the On The Border style.
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (adds heat and tang)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (for that earthy Tex-Mex signature)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (introduces smoky undertones)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (gives a balanced heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (added at the end for freshness)
Tortilla and Toppings
To finish our Chicken Tortilla Soup, the toppings provide contrasting textures and fresh brightness.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Corn tortillas (6-inch) | 6, cut into thin strips | Crisp, golden tortilla strips for crunch |
| Vegetable oil | For frying | To make crispy tortilla strips |
| 1 ripe avocado | Diced | Creamy topping to balance spice |
| 1 lime | Cut into wedges | Adds zesty brightness |
| 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese | For sprinkling | Melts beautifully and enriches flavor |
| Sour cream | Optional, for serving | Adds cool creaminess |
Our careful selection ensures a harmonious blend of hearty chicken, smoky spices, and crispy textures. Each ingredient plays a vital role in capturing the essence of the classic Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border.
Equipment Needed
To create our authentic Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border, having the right equipment ensures precise cooking and enhances the final flavors. Here’s a list of essential tools we’ll use:
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot
Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly without scorching. The heavy base distributes heat well, perfect for developing deep flavors.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Chef’s Knife
Vital for chopping onions, garlic, and other fresh ingredients finely and safely.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
For accurately measuring broth, spices, and other components to maintain consistency.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Used for stirring the soup throughout cooking without damaging the pot’s surface.
- Ladle
Needed for serving the soup cleanly into bowls along with broth and toppings.
- Mixing Bowls
Helpful for preparing and organizing ingredients like diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese before adding them to the soup.
- Tongs
Useful for handling cooked chicken breasts when shredding or removing from the pot.
- Baking Sheet (optional)
To crisp tortilla strips in the oven, adding that signature crunch to our Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Equipment Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Dutch Oven | Sautéing & simmering soup |
| Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife | Chopping vegetables and meats |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Stirring soup without scratching pot |
| Ladle | Serving soup |
| Mixing Bowls | Organizing and prepping ingredients |
| Tongs | Handling and shredding cooked chicken |
| Baking Sheet (optional) | Crisping tortilla strips |
Our choice of equipment helps us build the perfect base and layer flavors confidently to deliver the rich, hearty Chicken Tortilla Soup on the Border everyone will enjoy.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, proper Prep Work sets the foundation for our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border. Organizing and preparing ingredients saves time and ensures we achieve authentic, balanced flavors.
Preparing the Chicken
- Start with boneless skinless chicken breasts. Rinse and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and even flavor distribution.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the natural taste before adding to the soup.
- If preferred, you can cook the chicken separately to shred later or poach directly in the broth for added depth.
Chopping Vegetables
- Dice one medium onion finely to bring out natural sweetness as it sautés.
- Mince 3 cloves of garlic until fragrant; this infuses the soup with aromatic warmth.
- Use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies without draining to keep spice levels balanced.
- Optional: chop fresh jalapeños if we want an extra kick.
| Vegetable | Preparation Details |
|---|---|
| Onion | Finely diced |
| Garlic | Minced |
| Diced Tomatoes | Use with juices (undrained) |
| Jalapeños (opt.) | Seeds removed, finely chopped |
Preparing Tortilla Strips
- Use corn tortillas for an authentic texture.
- Stack 3-4 tortillas and cut into thin strips about ¼ inch wide.
- To crisp, toss strips with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Let cool to get that perfect crunch topping our soup.
“Crispy tortilla strips add unparalleled texture contrast to our rich and hearty chicken tortilla soup,” making this prep step worthwhile.
By completing these prep tasks, we lay the groundwork to execute the recipe smoothly while maximizing flavor and texture harmony in our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft a flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border with rich texture and vibrant zest. Our method ensures every ingredient harmonizes perfectly for that true Tex-Mex taste.
Making the Soup Base
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 cup chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release essential aromas.
- Pour in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies directly into the pot.
- Season the base by mixing in:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon | Sauté vegetables |
| Onion, chopped | 1 cup | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | Provides aroma and flavor |
| Chicken broth, low-sodium | 4 cups | Forms the soup’s base |
| Water | 1 cup | Adjusts consistency |
| Diced tomatoes with green chilies | 14.5 oz can | Adds spice and tang |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon | Earthy, smoky flavor |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Deep smoky notes |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds heat and profile |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Balances seasoning |
- Let the soup base simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to meld flavors and reduce slightly.
Cooking the Chicken in the Soup
- While the base simmers, prepare 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Lightly season the chicken with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces into the simmering soup, stirring gently to submerge evenly.
- Cover and simmer the soup for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Using tongs, gently stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more salt or chili powder if needed.
Adding Vegetables and Seasonings
- Stir in 1 cup frozen corn kernels and ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro; these add sweetness and a fresh herbaceous punch.
- Add 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors instantly.
- Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes uncovered to heat the corn fully and integrate the lime juice.
- For extra depth, sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you desire more heat.
- Remove from heat and allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
“The balance between smoky, spicy, and fresh lime elements is the hallmark of our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border.”
Serve each bowl with crispy tortilla strips, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, and lime wedges for authentic accompaniment.
Assembling the Soup
Now that our flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup base is simmering to perfection, it’s time to assemble the soup. This step brings together the layers of texture and flavor that make the On The Border style so irresistible.
Adding Tortilla Strips
We begin by adding the crispy tortilla strips, which provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm, savory broth. To ensure the strips maintain their texture:
- Place a handful of tortilla strips directly into each serving bowl.
- Ladle the hot soup over the strips just before serving. This keeps them from becoming soggy too quickly.
Alternatively, for extra crunch, serve the tortilla strips on the side, allowing everyone to add their preferred amount.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount per serving | Approximately ¼ cup of crispy tortilla strips |
| Addition timing | Add strips after ladling hot soup |
| Serving suggestion | Tortilla strips served on the side (optional) |
Adding Optional Toppings
To elevate our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border, we finish with zesty and creamy toppings that balance the smoky and spicy notes of the broth. Our go-to toppings include:
- Diced avocado for creamy richness
- Fresh lime wedges to squeeze over for a bright citrus lift
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for melty indulgence
- Sour cream or Mexican crema to add smoothness and cool down any heat
- Chopped fresh cilantro for herbaceous freshness
- Thinly sliced jalapeños for those who love extra spice
We recommend arranging these toppings in small bowls for a DIY experience. This lets everyone customize their bowl to suit their taste.
| Topping | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Diced avocado | Creamy texture |
| Lime wedges | Adds brightness and acidity |
| Shredded cheese | Adds richness and melty flavor |
| Sour cream / crema | Cools spice and adds creaminess |
| Chopped cilantro | Freshness and herbal aroma |
| Sliced jalapeños | Extra heat and kick |
By layering our crispy tortilla strips and vibrant, fresh toppings last, we lock in the vibrant textures and flavors that define the classic Chicken Tortilla Soup on the Border.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border, presentation and accompaniments play a crucial role in elevating its bold Tex-Mex flavors. Here are our detailed tips to serve this dish with flair and enhance every spoonful.
Layering the Soup
- Start by placing a handful of crispy tortilla strips at the bottom of each bowl. This step keeps the strips crunchy longer and adds texture contrast right from the first bite.
- Ladle the hot chicken tortilla soup gently over the tortilla base to evenly distribute the savory broth and tender chicken pieces.
- Avoid adding tortilla strips on top before serving to preserve their crispiness.
Essential Toppings to Elevate Flavor
Offer these vibrant, flavorful toppings in small serving bowls. This encourages customization and allows everyone to tailor their bowl to their preferred spice and texture:
- Diced ripe avocado – adds creamy richness and cools the palate.
- Fresh lime wedges – provide a zesty brightness that cuts through the smoky, spiced broth.
- Shredded sharp Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese – melts lightly into the soup for added creaminess.
- Sour cream or Mexican crema – balances heat with a tangy smoothness.
- Chopped fresh cilantro – offers herbaceous freshness and color.
- Sliced jalapeños or pickled jalapeños – add a spicy kick for heat lovers.
Recommended Side Dishes
Pairing our Chicken Tortilla Soup with complementary sides enhances the meal experience:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Warm corn or flour tortillas | Soft and warm to scoop and savor | Complements crispy tortilla strips in the soup |
| Mexican rice | Fluffy, mildly spiced rice | Adds a hearty element for a full meal |
| Refried beans | Creamy, smoky beans | Enhances traditional Tex-Mex flavor profile |
| Fresh garden salad | Crisp mixed greens with light vinaigrette | Offers refreshing contrast to the rich soup |
Serving Tips for an Inviting Presentation
- Use deep bowls to showcase the colorful toppings layered on the rich broth.
- Garnish bowls with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped green onions for extra visual appeal.
- Serve immediately after layering tortilla strips and toppings to ensure optimal texture and warmth.
“The magic of a Chicken Tortilla Soup lies not only in its bold flavors but also in the playful combination of textures and garnishes that bring the dish alive.”
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure every bowl of our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border delivers a satisfying, authentic, and visually appealing experience that invites us back for seconds.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border anytime, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here’s how we ensure optimal flavor and freshness when preparing ahead or storing leftovers:
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook the Soup in Advance: Prepare the soup fully up to the point of adding crispy tortilla strips and fresh toppings. These elements lose texture and freshness if stored.
- Cool the Soup Properly: Let the soup cool at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before refrigerating. This step preserves consistency and prevents condensation that can dilute the flavors.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the soup into airtight containers to avoid absorbing other fridge odors and to maintain flavor integrity.
- Label with Date: Mark your containers with the preparation date to track freshness.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Store the soup in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Consume refrigerated soup within 3 to 4 days to maintain vibrant flavor and food safety.
Freezing Instructions
- Ideal for Long-Term Storage: Our soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Use heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers for freezing.
- Leave room at the top of containers for expansion.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat from frozen over low heat while stirring occasionally.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
- Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Add fresh lime juice or sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika to revive the soup’s brightness.
- Add crispy tortilla strips and fresh toppings just before serving to keep their texture.
Storage and Shelf Life Overview
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | ≤ 40°F (4°C) | 3 to 4 days | Cool before refrigerating, airtight containers |
| Freezing | 0°F (-18°C) or below | Up to 3 months | Use heavy-duty bags, allow thawing in fridge |
“Proper storage and timely reheating help us savor the full depth of our Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border long after cooking day.”
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we keep our soup fresh flavorful and ready for any occasion without compromising that irresistible Tex-Mex essence.
Conclusion
This Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe On The Border brings warmth and bold flavors to any table. With its perfect blend of smoky spices, tender chicken, and fresh toppings, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to customize.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or prepping meals ahead, this recipe delivers consistent comfort and taste. By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll enjoy a delicious, authentic Tex-Mex experience right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients in Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The key ingredients include boneless skinless chicken breasts, low-sodium chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, corn, and fresh toppings like avocado, lime, shredded cheese, and crispy tortilla strips.
How do you make crispy tortilla strips for the soup?
Cut corn tortillas into strips, toss them lightly in oil, and bake or fry until golden brown and crispy. They add a crunchy texture that complements the soup.
Can I prepare Chicken Tortilla Soup in advance?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead, cooled, and stored in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor retention.
What equipment is essential for cooking this soup?
A large Dutch oven for simmering, a cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a ladle for serving are essential tools.
How should I serve Chicken Tortilla Soup for best taste?
Serve the soup over crispy tortilla strips and top with fresh ingredients like diced avocado, lime wedges, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños for a customizable and flavorful experience.
What spices give Chicken Tortilla Soup its authentic flavor?
Cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper create the signature smoky, spicy, and warm flavors typical of this Tex-Mex dish.
Can I customize the toppings on Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, toppings like avocado, lime, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños can be added based on personal preferences to enhance flavor and texture.
How do I reheat leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain texture and flavor. Avoid overheating to preserve the freshness of the herbs and toppings.