Warm, bold, and incredibly satisfying, Chicken Tortilla Soup is the kind of meal that checks every box. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, hearty enough to keep everyone full, and layered with classic Mexican-inspired flavors that only get better with time. Loaded with tender chicken, black beans, corn, hominy, and tomatoes, this soup is finished with crunchy tortilla chips and fresh toppings that make every bowl irresistible.

Whether you’re craving comfort on a chilly evening or need a reliable crowd-pleasing dinner, this chicken tortilla soup delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Ready in about 40 minutes
• Bold, comforting flavors with pantry staples
• Naturally filling thanks to beans, chicken, and corn
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep

It’s the kind of soup that disappears fast — and gets requested again and again.

Is Chicken Tortilla Soup Authentic?

Yes — chicken tortilla soup has roots in Mexican cuisine. Traditional versions are made with chicken broth, tomatoes, garlic, onions, chile peppers, and crispy fried tortilla strips. Many modern variations (like this one) include beans and corn for extra heartiness, making it especially popular in home kitchens.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Soup Base

• Olive oil
• Onion and garlic
• Crushed tomatoes
• Chicken broth and water
• Chili powder and dried oregano

Hearty Add-Ins

• Cooked shredded or cubed chicken breast
• Black beans (rinsed and drained)
• Corn kernels
• White hominy
• Canned green chile peppers
• Fresh cilantro

Toppings (Highly Recommende

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large stockpot. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant. Stir in chili powder and oregano to bloom the spices.

2. Build the Broth

Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer briefly to develop flavor.

3. Add the Hearty Ingredients

Stir in black beans, cooked chicken, corn, hominy, green chiles, and fresh cilantro. Simmer until everything is warmed through and well combined.

4. Serve and Garnish

Ladle into bowls and finish with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, cheese, and green onions. Serve hot.

Tips for the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness
• For more heat, add diced jalapeño or extra chile powder
• Stir in crushed tortilla chips directly for a thicker texture
• This soup tastes even better the next day

What to Serve With Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup is filling on its own, but pairs beautifully with:

• Warm tortillas or crusty bread
• A simple green salad
• Mexican rice
• Cornbread or cheese quesadillas

Storage & Freezing

Refrigerator:
Cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (laid flat) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tortilla Soup is everything comfort food should be — warm, bold, nourishing, and endlessly customizable. With minimal prep and big payoff, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a staple in your rotation.