Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a satisfying and nourishing dish that warms you from the inside out. This delightful soup combines tender chicken, a medley of vibrant vegetables, and the zesty flavors of spices, all enveloped in a rich broth. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and a healthy choice that everyone will love.
Why We Love This Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
This Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Second, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling option for any meal. The inclusion of spices and fresh herbs ensures that every spoonful is bursting with flavor, while the crispy tortilla strips add a delightful crunch. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less time spent on cleanup. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty, homemade soup any day of the week.
Ingredients about Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or ghee
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- ½ tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 – 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 28 oz fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (4 oz) can green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
- ½ cup chopped cilantro, plus more for serving
- Sliced green onion, for serving
- 4 corn tortillas
- Non-stick avocado oil cooking spray
- Sliced avocado, for serving
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese, for serving
How to Make Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup Directions
To create this delectable Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup, follow these straightforward steps:
- Start by heating a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add in a tablespoon of avocado oil or ghee.
- While the pot heats up, generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. When the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs into the pot. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step helps develop a rich flavor in the soup.
- Once seared, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside, ensuring to cover it to keep it warm.
- In the same pot, add the minced garlic, diced onion, and diced jalapeno. Sauté these ingredients for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, releasing a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Next, sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, dried oregano, chipotle powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue to sauté for another minute, allowing the spices to toast slightly and enhance their flavors.
- Now it’s time to bring your soup together. Pour in the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, black beans, green chilies, chicken broth, and lime juice. Stir everything until it’s combined well, and then add the seared chicken back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and fully cooked.
- While the soup simmers, prepare the crispy tortilla strips to top your soup. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips. Place these strips on a lined baking sheet and generously spray them with non-stick cooking spray to ensure they become crispy. Bake the strips for 10-12 minutes until lightly browned and crisp. As soon as they come out of the oven, season with a little salt and squeeze some lime juice over them for extra flavor.
- After the soup has simmered, remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it back into the soup. Stir in the full-fat coconut milk for creaminess and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Serving this Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup is just as rewarding as making it. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls, allowing the vibrant colors and ingredients to shine. Top each bowl with a generous handful of chopped cilantro, sliced green onion, and the crispy tortilla strips you prepared earlier. To elevate the dish, add slices of creamy avocado and a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top. Not only do these toppings add flavor, but they also provide delightful textures that complement the soup perfectly. Enjoy your Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for that extra burst of brightness.
Expert Tips: Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Choose the Right Chicken: While this recipe calls for chicken thighs, you can also use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Both options work well; just remember that thighs have more flavor and moisture.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the level of heat in your soup by modifying the jalapeno or the amount of chipotle powder you use. If you prefer a milder soup, you can omit the jalapeno altogether.
- Be Creative with Toppings: In addition to the suggested toppings, consider adding fresh corn, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Corn adds a sweet twist that balances the soup’s spices.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days, intensifying the flavors. Just ensure you add the tortilla strips just before serving to keep them crispy.
- Fresh Herbs: For added freshness, experiment with different herbs like parsley or green onions. They enhance the flavor profile of the soup and add a pop of color.
How to Store Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Storing leftover Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup is simple. Once it has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate the soup for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, it freezes well. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you want to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Variation of Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. This way, you can enjoy a hearty veggie-filled soup.
- Spicy Kick: If you crave more heat, consider adding a couple of dashes of hot sauce or extra jalapenos. You can also experiment with other chili powders like cayenne for a fiery soup.
- Extra Creaminess: For a richer flavor, add more coconut milk or even a splash of cream to enhance the richness of the broth.
- Chickpeas or Lentils: For additional protein and fiber, consider adding canned chickpeas or cooked lentils to the soup. Both options are healthy and will blend nicely with the existing ingredients.
- Mexican Flair: Top with crumbled queso fresco or serve with a side of tortilla chips for a more traditional Mexican dish.
FAQ
What is Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a nutritious and flavorful soup made with tender chicken, vegetables, spices, and topped with crispy tortilla strips. It is often made with wholesome ingredients that provide protein and fiber.
How can I make Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier?
To add spice, increase the amount of jalapeno or sprinkle in additional chipotle powder. Dashes of hot sauce can also heighten the heat level if that’s what you desire.
Can I use other beans in my Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Absolutely! Besides black beans, you can experiment with pinto beans or kidney beans. They will add variety and ensure your soup remains hearty and fulfilling.
How long will Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, your Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I make Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup without chicken?
Certainly! You can omit the chicken entirely and make a vegetarian version using roasted vegetables and vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based meal.
Enjoy crafting your very own Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup! This dish promises to be a delightful addition to your mealtime repertoire, effortlessly blending health and flavor in every bowl.
Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or ghee for sautéing
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium jalapeno, seeded and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- ½ tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ - 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 28 oz fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
- ½ cup chopped cilantro, plus more for serving
- 4 pieces corn tortillas
- 1 pump spray non-stick avocado oil cooking spray
- 1 medium avocado, sliced, for serving
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add avocado oil or ghee.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear in the pot for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté minced garlic, diced onion, and jalapeno for 3-4 minutes until onion is translucent.
- Add cumin, paprika, oregano, chipotle powder, salt, and black pepper, and sauté for 1 more minute.
Cooking
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, black beans, green chilies, chicken broth, and lime juice. Stir well, then return seared chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and let soup cook for 25-30 minutes.
- Prepare crispy tortilla strips by cutting them into thin strips, spraying with cooking spray and baking at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
- Remove chicken from soup, shred with forks, and return to pot. Stir in coconut milk and let simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serving
- Ladle soup into bowls, topping with chopped cilantro, sliced green onion, tortilla strips, avocado, and shredded cheese.