Classic Tortilla Soup Recipe

Tortilla soup is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. A comforting, warm bowl of this Mexican-inspired soup can bring a wave of satisfaction with every spoonful. Whether you’re cozying up at home or serving a crowd, tortilla soup is the type of meal that feels both hearty and refreshing. The combination of spicy broth, tender chicken, crisp fried tortilla strips, and vibrant toppings makes it a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its taste but also in how adaptable it is.

In this post, we’re diving deep into a classic tortilla soup recipe, exploring the essential ingredients, cooking steps, tips, and ways you can tweak it to your liking. Whether you’re a first-time maker or a seasoned tortilla soup enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s get started!

The essence of a great tortilla soup lies in its broth. It’s rich, flavorful, and infused with smoky, spicy undertones. This recipe balances depth and warmth, with a healthy dash of excitement from the toppings. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or any day you crave comfort food. Here’s a step-by-step look at how to make a classic tortilla soup:

Ingredients Needed

To get the best flavors and textures, you’ll need a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients:

Chicken Breast (or Thighs) – Skinless, boneless chicken breast or thighs are the base protein for this soup. Chicken breast gives a lean, tender texture, while thighs can add more richness.
Tortillas – Corn tortillas are the star of this dish. When fried or baked, they create crispy strips that add an essential crunch to the soup.
Chicken Broth – A flavorful chicken broth provides the base for your soup. Opt for low-sodium to control the salt level, or go for homemade if you’re feeling adventurous!
Tomatoes – Fresh, diced tomatoes give the broth a tangy and slightly sweet depth. Canned tomatoes can be used if fresh ones are unavailable.
Onion – Yellow or white onion is essential for building the flavor foundation in the soup.
Garlic – Adds a fragrant, savory depth that complements the other ingredients.
Chili Powder – A key component of tortilla soup, chili powder imparts that signature warm, smoky flavor.
Cumin – Cumin enhances the earthy tones of the soup, bringing complexity to the dish.
Lime – A squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving adds brightness and acidity to cut through the richness of the broth.
Fresh Cilantro – For garnish and added freshness.
Cheese – Grated sharp cheddar or crumbled queso fresco takes your soup to the next level.
Sour Cream or Crema – A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema adds creaminess and balances the heat from the chili.
Avocado – Creamy and buttery, diced avocado makes the soup feel luxurious and complements the crispy tortillas.

Cooking Instructions

Making tortilla soup from scratch may sound like a lot of work, but it’s incredibly simple and rewarding. Here’s how to bring everything together:

Prepare The Tortilla Strips
- Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide).
- Heat about 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the tortilla strips in batches until golden and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt.
Cook The Chicken
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them in the pot for 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.
Make The Soup Base
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to break down and release their juices.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and salt. Let the spices bloom for 1-2 minutes.
Add The Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes to develop flavors.
- Add the shredded chicken to the pot, and let it heat through.
Assemble The Soup
- Just before serving, stir in the lime juice for a pop of freshness.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy tortilla strips, a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and diced avocado.

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the role of each ingredient can elevate your tortilla soup experience. Here’s why these ingredients work so well together:

Corn Tortillas: When fried, corn tortillas become wonderfully crisp, giving you a satisfying contrast to the smooth broth. They also absorb flavors beautifully, soaking up the savory and spicy essence of the soup.
Chili Powder & Cumin: These two spices are the backbone of the flavor profile in tortilla soup. Chili powder adds a mild heat and smokiness, while cumin offers earthy and warm notes, creating a complex and comforting base.
Lime: Acidity is crucial for balancing rich, savory flavors. The lime brightens the soup, cutting through the richness of the chicken and broth while providing a zesty kick.
Chicken Broth: A quality broth is essential for a deep, full-bodied flavor. If you’re using store-bought, go for low-sodium options to control the salt, or make your own for an even richer base.
Cheese & Sour Cream: The cheese brings a creamy, salty bite, while sour cream (or crema) adds smoothness, helping to cool the heat from the chili.

Expert Tips

To make sure your tortilla soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

Fry Tortillas in Small Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying tortilla strips. Overcrowding can lead to uneven frying and soggy strips. Fry them in batches to get that perfect crispy texture.
Simmer the Soup Long Enough: Don’t rush the simmering step. The flavors need time to meld together, so be patient. The longer it simmers, the more depth the soup will have.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It saves time and adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the soup.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the heat level to your liking by adding extra chili powder, jalapeños, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Garnish with Toppings: Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh cilantro, avocado, cheese, and sour cream will elevate the dish and make it look visually appealing too.

Recipe Variations

Tortilla soup is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit your personal preferences. Here are some ways to mix things up:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use black beans or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes for a hearty and healthy vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. You can also toss in some chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy twist.
Use Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for beef, pork, or even shrimp. Shredded beef or carnitas are fantastic alternatives.
Tortilla Substitutes: If you’re out of corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas, though they won’t have the same crunch. Alternatively, try adding tortilla chips for a quick and crispy topping.

Final Words

Tortilla soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something incredibly satisfying. It’s filling, comforting, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s so customizable that you can make it your own every time you cook it.

Classic Tortilla Soup Recipe