Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup

By: GORDON ALEX | Published onFebruary 7, 2026

Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of those comforting dishes that warms the soul and satisfies your cravings. Perfect for cozy nights in or a quick family meal, this classic recipe combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and spices, all swimming in a flavorful broth. There’s something magical about how every spoonful delivers a burst of flavor. Anyone can whip it up with minimal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Whether you’re soothing the sniffles or serving up a crowd-pleaser, Chicken Tortilla Soup is a dish that never disappoints.

Reasons to try it

So, why should you make this Chicken Tortilla Soup at home? For starters, it’s a fantastic one-pot meal that can be ready in just over half an hour, perfect for those who want a hearty dinner without the hassle. This dish also allows for creativity—add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients based on what you have at hand. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a great way to use up leftovers.

"This soup is my go-to meal when the weather gets chilly. It’s packed with flavors and comes together so easily. My kids love it, and it’s become a family favorite!" – A satisfied home chef.

Preparing Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making this soup is straightforward and gratifying. You’ll start by sautéing aromatics, then layer on the protein with vegetables, finally finishing with a rich broth. The cooking process is quick and daje strokes of perfect seasoning along the way.

Gather these items

To create this comforting dish, you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips for serving
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Feel free to swap ingredients or add in extras based on your taste or what you have available! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily replace chicken with extra beans or grains like quinoa.

Step-by-step instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and soft, around 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the diced bell pepper and carrots, cooking for another few minutes until they begin to soften.
Pour in the chicken broth. Then, add in your shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and rinsed black beans.
Season your soup with 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 20 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serve hot, topped with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and wedges of lime for a zesty finish.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving Chicken Tortilla Soup, the fun doesn’t end with just a bowl. Create a cozy soup bar! Set out bowls of toppings like avocado slices, cheese, sour cream, and extra cilantro so everyone can customize their own bowl. Pair it with warm crusty bread or some cheesy quesadillas for a complete meal that will have everyone going back for seconds.

Storage and reheating tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing this soup is easy! Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it can last for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to indulge again.

Pro chef tips

Fresh Herbs for Flavor: Fresh cilantro adds brightness, so don’t skip on it. Squeeze fresh lime juice just before serving for that extra zip!
Perfect Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to concentrate the flavors.
Make it Spicy: For those who crave some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking.

Flavor swaps

While classic Chicken Tortilla Soup is a culinary delight on its own, consider shaking things up with variations! Try adding corn for sweetness, or swap chicken for shredded pork or beef for a different flavor profile. You could even turn it vegetarian by swapping the broth for vegetable broth and increasing the amount of beans and veggies. Experiment with toppings like crushed tortilla chips, avocado crema, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a new twist.

Your questions answered

What is the total prep time for Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Total prep time is under 10 minutes, with about 20 minutes of cooking time.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes! You can add frozen chicken directly to the pot; just allow a few extra minutes for cooking.
Is it safe to store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
What other beans can I use instead of black beans?
You can substitute pinto beans or kidney beans, depending on your preference.
How can I make it spicier?
Try adding diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce during the cooking process for a kick.
Can I substitute the chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option, or chicken stock for richer flavor.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla strips for serving!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply omit any cheese and rely on fresh toppings like lime and cilantro for flavor.