If you’re craving a warm and flavorful meal that brings a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine to your table, our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is just what you need. This hearty soup combines tender shredded chicken with a rich tomato base, blended with traditional spices that deliver a perfect balance of smoky and savory flavors.
We love how this dish captures the essence of street-style tacos in a comforting bowl, topped with crispy tortilla strips, fresh avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into this vibrant soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
To create our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup, we follow a step-by-step process that builds deep layers of flavor and produces a satisfying, authentic dish. Here is how we make it:
Ingredients Preparation
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 1 pound, shredded
- Diced tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz) with juice
- Chicken broth – 4 cups
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Jalapeño pepper – 1, seeded and minced
- Ground cumin – 1 tablespoon
- Chili powder – 2 teaspoons
- Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Corn tortillas – 4, cut into thin strips
- Avocado – 1, diced
- Fresh cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped
- Lime wedges – for serving
- Monterey Jack or Cotija cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
We heat a large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. We then sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeño for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Next, we stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. We cook the spices for 1 minute to release their oils. Then, we add the diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth. We bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
We add the shredded chicken into the simmering broth. We let the soup cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly and the chicken to heat through.
Step 4: Crisp Tortilla Strips
While the soup simmers, we heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. We fry the corn tortilla strips until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes. We place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
We ladle the soup into bowls and top each with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and crumbled cheese. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright finishing touch.
Cooking Time and Serving Table
| Task | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sauté aromatics | 3-4 minutes | Until softened |
| Spice roasting | 1 minute | To release flavor oils |
| Simmer soup | 20 minutes | To blend flavors and heat chicken |
| Fry tortilla strips | 2 minutes | Until golden and crispy |
| Total prep & cook | Approx. 30 min | Perfect for weeknight meals |
“Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup” delivers a beautiful harmony of smoky spices and fresh toppings that evoke traditional Mexican street food. By following these steps, we ensure every spoonful bursts with rich, layered flavor and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
To craft our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup with authentic depth and vibrant flavor, we carefully select fresh and flavorful ingredients. Below is a detailed list divided into the soup base essentials and the crisp, fresh toppings that complete this beloved dish.
Soup Ingredients
We start by gathering the core components that build the rich, smoky, and hearty foundation of our Chicken Tortilla Soup.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Details |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 1.5 pounds | Trimmed |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can | Fire-roasted preferred |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | Low-sodium for balanced flavor |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely diced |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Jalapeño pepper | 1 | Seeded and finely chopped |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons | Toasted for enhanced aroma |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds smoky depth |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon | For warming spice |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing vegetables |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances natural flavors |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste | Balanced seasoning |
Toppings and Garnishes
The texture and brightness of our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup come alive with these fresh, crunchy, and creamy toppings. Each garnish offers contrasting sensations that elevate every spoonful.
- Tortilla strips: Crisp fried corn tortillas cut into thin strips
- Avocado: Ripe, diced for creamy contrast
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped, adds herbal brightness
- Lime wedges: For squeezing fresh citrus zest
- Shredded cheese: Monterey Jack or cheddar melt beautifully
- Sour cream or Mexican crema: Adds tang and richness
- Thinly sliced radishes: Optional, for crunch and color
By combining these ingredients thoughtfully, our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup promises a vibrant, satisfying, and flavorful meal experience every time.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup, having the right equipment is essential. Below is a list of tools we recommend for a smooth and efficient cooking process.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Dutch oven or pot | For sautéing aromatics and simmering the soup |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | To stir ingredients without scratching cookware |
| Chef’s knife | For chopping onions, jalapeños, and garnishes |
| Cutting board | To prep vegetables and chicken safely |
| Measuring spoons & cups | Ensure precise spice and liquid measurements |
| Skillet or frying pan | To crisp the tortilla strips until golden and crunchy |
| Tongs | For handling hot tortilla strips and chicken |
| Ladle | To serve the soup neatly |
| Mixing bowl | Toss tortilla strips with oil and seasoning |
Each tool plays a crucial role in translating our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe from the page to a delicious bowl. Using a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot allows even heat distribution perfect for building deep, smoky flavors in the soup base. A sharp chef’s knife ensures clean cuts on vegetables, which helps release their freshness better.
For the crispy tortilla garnish, a skillet is necessary. We recommend frying tortilla strips in batches until crisp, using tongs to easily turn and remove them without breaking. Precise measurements with spoons and cups help balance the spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder to achieve the authentic smoky flavor.
Having the right equipment prepares us to follow each step confidently and ensures our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out flavorful, hearty, and beautifully textured every time.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, let’s get everything prepped to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Proper preparation sets the foundation for our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup, delivering the authentic flavors we crave.
Preparing the Chicken
For this recipe, we use boneless chicken breasts. Here is how we prep them:
- Trim any excess fat or connective tissue.
- Rinse lightly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- For tender, evenly cooked chicken, consider butterflying thick breasts or cutting them into larger chunks.
- Set the chicken aside ready for seasoning and cooking.
Chopping Vegetables
Our soup base relies on fresh, aromatic vegetables. Precise chopping helps create a balanced flavor and texture:
| Vegetable | Preparation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Onion | Finely diced | About 1 cup |
| Garlic | Minced | 3 cloves |
| Jalapeño | Deseeded and diced | Adjust amount for heat preference |
| Cilantro | Chopped (for garnish) | Fresh, about 1/4 cup |
| Avocado | Diced (for garnish) | Ripe, peeled and seeded |
| Radishes | Thinly sliced (optional garnish) | Adds crunch and color |
Making Homemade Tortilla Strips (Optional)
Crispy tortilla strips add essential texture and authenticity to our soup. Here’s how to make them:
- Cut corn tortillas into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide.
- Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the strips in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Season immediately with a pinch of salt for flavor.
Pro tip: Homemade tortilla strips fry quickly so keep an eye to avoid burning them. Alternatively, use store-bought crispy tortilla chips broken into bite-sized pieces for convenience.
With our chicken trimmed, vegetables chopped, and tortilla strips ready, we have everything to build the rich and flavorful Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup that delivers a true taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
Directions
Follow these straightforward steps to create the Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup that bursts with authentic flavors and satisfying textures.
Making the Chicken Broth Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the trimmed, boneless chicken breasts to the pot and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned but not fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to the same pot, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift any browned bits — this enhances the soup’s depth.
- Return the chicken to the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the broth and shred it with two forks once cool enough to handle.
Cooking the Vegetables and Spices
- In the same Dutch oven, add 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the 1 diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 finely chopped jalapeño for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the spice blend:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Cook the spices with the vegetables for 1 minute to release their aroma and flavors.
Combining Ingredients and Simmering
- Add 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes along with their juices to the pot.
- Pour in the reserved chicken broth and stir well to combine.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to marry and the broth to slightly thicken.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness just before serving.
Preparing Tortilla Strips
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1/4 cup vegetable oil.
- Cut 6 corn tortillas into thin strips.
- Fry the strips in batches for 2-3 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Season the warm tortilla strips lightly with salt.
| Step | Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken broth simmering | 15 minutes | Ensure chicken reaches 165°F |
| Sauté vegetables & spices | 6 minutes total | Softened veggies and toasted spices |
| Final simmer | 10 minutes | Absorb flavors and broth thickens |
| Fry tortilla strips | 2-3 minutes | Fry until golden & crisp |
“Crispy tortilla strips are essential to evoke the true street-style taco flavor in our soup. Don’t skip this step!”
These steps build the rich, smoky, and vibrant base that defines the Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup experience.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup at its best, careful assembly and complementary sides make every bite a memorable experience. Let’s explore how to build the perfect bowl and pair it with delicious accompaniments.
Assembling the Soup Bowl
To create an authentic and flavorful serving of Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup, follow these steps for the ideal layered taste and texture:
- Start with the hot soup base: Ladle the rich chicken tortilla soup into each bowl, ensuring a balanced distribution of chicken, tomatoes, and broth.
- Add crispy tortilla strips: Sprinkle a generous handful of freshly fried or store-bought crispy tortilla strips on top to add crunch and contrast.
- Layer fresh toppings:
- Diced avocado for creamy freshness
- A handful of chopped fresh cilantro to brighten flavors
- A dollop of Mexican crema or sour cream for richness
- Sprinkle shredded cheese: Use sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend for melty, savory notes.
- Garnish with thinly sliced radishes for a peppery crunch.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the soup for a vibrant, zesty finish.
“The interplay between the smoky soup and fresh toppings creates a harmony of flavors that captures the essence of street-style tacos in every spoonful.”
Suggested Side Dishes
To complete our meal, pair the Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup with sides that balance and enhance the bold flavors:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Street Corn | Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice | Adds smoky, creamy, and tangy notes complementing the soup’s spice |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | Fluffy rice cooked with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro | Provides a mild, zesty base to soak up the soup flavors |
| Fresh Tortilla Chips | Crisp corn tortilla chips for additional crunch and dipping | Extends the tortilla theme with convenient texture |
| Pico de Gallo | Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, jalapeño, and cilantro | Adds bright acidity and refreshing bites alongside the soup |
Those classic Mexican sides round out the dinner and allow us to enjoy a vibrant and satisfying feast every time.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup in advance can save time and enhance convenience without sacrificing flavor. Here are some effective make-ahead strategies to keep this dish fresh and delicious for busy days.
1. Cook and Shred Chicken Ahead of Time
We recommend cooking the chicken up to 3 days in advance. Once cooked, shred the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows us to quickly add the protein when assembling the soup later.
| Step | Details | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Cook chicken | Poach, bake, or roast as preferred | Up to 3 days refrigerated |
| Shred and cool completely | Use forks or hands | – |
| Store | Airtight container or zip-lock bag | Up to 3 days refrigerated |
2. Prepare Soup Base in Advance
We can make the rich tomato and broth base a day or two ahead. After sautéing the aromatics and simmering the broth with spices, cool the soup completely and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove and then add pre-shredded chicken.
“Making the soup base ahead enhances the melding of smoky spices and deep flavors, resulting in a more robust broth.“
3. Make Homemade Tortilla Strips Early
Crispy tortilla strips are essential for authentic texture. We can fry or bake strips up to 48 hours ahead. Store them in a tightly sealed container at room temperature to keep them crunchy.
| Preparation | Storage Tips | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Fry or bake tortilla strips | Let cool completely before storing | Up to 48 hours at room temp |
| Store | Airtight container | – |
Avoid refrigerating tortilla strips as moisture can lead to sogginess.
4. Assemble Toppings Just Before Serving
For the freshest presentation, we suggest preparing garnishes like diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheese, and crema right before serving. These toppings enhance texture and brightness but do not hold well when prepped early.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we streamline our cooking process and still enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures that make our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup truly special.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating of our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup ensures we enjoy its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures even after preparation. Follow these steps to maintain the soup’s freshness and quality.
Storing Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it.
- Transfer the soup to an airtight container for optimal freshness.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Keep toppings such as diced avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, and cheese separate to preserve their texture and freshness.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat refrigerated soup:
- Pour the desired portion into a saucepan.
- Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Heat until the soup is steaming hot, about 5-7 minutes.
- Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate flavors.
- Add fresh toppings just before serving.
To reheat frozen soup:
- Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat as described above.
- If short on time, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely and heating in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Tips for Maintaining Soup Quality
- Do not store tortilla strips in the soup; add them at serving time to keep them crisp.
- Avocado can brown quickly; add freshly diced avocado only when ready to serve.
- Sour cream or Mexican crema should be added fresh to complement the reheated soup.
- Use lime wedges squeezed fresh after reheating to brighten the flavors.
Storage and Reheating Summary Table
| Action | Method | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate soup | Airtight container | Up to 4 days | Cool before storing |
| Freeze soup | Freezer-safe container/bag | Up to 3 months | Thaw before reheating |
| Reheat refrigerated soup | Stovetop over medium heat | 5-7 minutes | Stir to heat evenly |
| Reheat frozen soup | Thaw overnight then stovetop or microwave | Variable | Microwave in intervals to avoid boiling |
| Store toppings separately | Store in airtight containers in fridge | 1-2 days (fresh toppings) | Add before serving |
By adhering to these storage and reheating best practices, we keep our Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup brings a vibrant fusion of smoky spices and fresh toppings that make every meal feel special. Its quick preparation and rich flavors fit perfectly into busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
With the right ingredients and simple steps, we can enjoy an authentic taste of Mexican street food right at home. This recipe is sure to become a staple in our kitchens, offering warmth and comfort in every bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty Mexican-inspired soup featuring tender shredded chicken in a smoky tomato broth, seasoned with traditional spices, and topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and fresh garnishes.
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
The entire preparation and cooking process takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
What are the key ingredients needed?
Key ingredients include boneless chicken breasts, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, low-sodium chicken broth, onion, garlic, jalapeño, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and toppings like crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, and lime.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and shred the chicken up to three days ahead, make the soup base one or two days in advance, and even prepare tortilla strips up to 48 hours early for convenience.
What equipment do I need to cook this soup?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven for sautéing and simmering, a chef’s knife for chopping ingredients, and a skillet to fry homemade tortilla strips.
How do I make homemade tortilla strips?
Cut corn tortillas into strips, lightly fry them in oil until crispy and golden, then drain on paper towels. They add authentic texture and flavor to the soup.
What are the best toppings for this soup?
Recommended toppings are crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream or Mexican crema, and lime wedges to enhance flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover soup?
Cool the soup to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat refrigerated soup gently on the stove or microwave until hot. For frozen soup, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add fresh toppings only before serving.
What side dishes pair well with Mas Tacos Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Great sides include Mexican street corn, cilantro lime rice, fresh tortilla chips, and pico de gallo for a complete, flavorful meal.