This Chicken Tortilla Soup with Charred Corn and Fire-Roasted Tomatoes is a flavor-packed meal that combines the heartiness of chicken with the deep, smoky flavors of fire-roasted tomatoes and charred corn. The combination of savory ingredients, spices, and fresh toppings makes this soup irresistible. It is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, whether you like it spicy, mild, or loaded with toppings. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this soup will become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Not only is this soup bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors, but it’s also incredibly satisfying and nourishing. The chicken offers lean protein, while the corn provides fiber and the tomatoes bring a rich depth of flavor. The crispy tortilla strips on top add the perfect crunch, and the fresh garnishes like avocado, cilantro, and lime elevate each bite. Whether you’re serving it as a light dinner or pairing it with other Mexican dishes, this soup will impress your guests and leave everyone craving more.
Full Recipe:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon cumin
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 large onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
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1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth
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1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
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1 cup frozen corn kernels, charred (or fresh corn)
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8 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
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1 lime, cut into wedges
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
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1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, seasoning with chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on both sides, about 6-8 minutes.
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Remove the chicken from the pot, then add the onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
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Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and green chilies. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Lower the heat and add the charred corn and tortilla strips. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Meanwhile, shred the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the pot.
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Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve the soup hot, topped with diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cheese if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 340 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
Reasons to Love Chicken Tortilla Soup
There are several reasons why chicken tortilla soup has become a favorite among many. First, it is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the heat level, swap out ingredients, or load it up with toppings to suit your taste. Second, it’s a one-pot meal that is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats ensures that the soup is both filling and satisfying.
The soup also offers a delightful texture contrast. The tender chicken provides a meaty foundation, while the corn and crispy tortilla strips offer a satisfying crunch. The addition of fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro brings brightness and freshness to each bowl.
Health Benefits of Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty soup provides numerous health benefits, making it not only tasty but also a nourishing meal. The chicken offers a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The corn provides fiber, which aids digestion, and the fire-roasted tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which can support heart health and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
In addition, this soup can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences. It can be made gluten-free by using corn tortillas and can be made dairy-free by omitting cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative. For a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of oil used to char the corn and opt for a lighter chicken broth.
The Charred Corn and Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: The Secret Ingredients
What truly sets this chicken tortilla soup apart from others is the addition of charred corn and fire-roasted tomatoes. These ingredients give the soup a smoky, earthy flavor that takes the dish to another level. The charred corn adds a slight sweetness and texture, while the fire-roasted tomatoes contribute a rich, caramelized taste. The combination of these ingredients enhances the broth and makes each bite more flavorful.
To char the corn, you can either grill it or use a stovetop method. Either way, the process helps to bring out the natural sweetness and adds a smoky dimension to the soup. Fire-roasted tomatoes, often available canned, bring an intense flavor that complements the other ingredients without overwhelming them.
How to Customize Your Chicken Tortilla Soup
One of the best things about chicken tortilla soup is its versatility. There are many ways to personalize the dish to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas for customization:
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Spice Level: If you like your soup on the spicier side, you can add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even fresh jalapeños. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or leave out the cayenne.
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Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with beans, like black beans or pinto beans. You can also add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to make it more filling.
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Toppings: The toppings for chicken tortilla soup can be varied based on what you have on hand. Classic toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and sliced avocado. For a little extra crunch, you can add tortilla chips, or you can add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.
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Tortilla Strips: While the soup is typically served with crispy tortilla strips, you can switch things up by using baked tortilla chips or even crumbled tortilla chips for a unique texture.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken tortilla soup is perfect on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes. For a light and refreshing option, serve it with a simple green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, pair it with a side of cornbread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
Additionally, if you’re serving the soup as part of a larger Mexican-inspired feast, consider pairing it with other dishes like quesadillas, tacos, or Mexican rice. The rich, smoky flavors of the soup will complement these dishes wonderfully.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Tortilla Soup
While chicken tortilla soup is relatively simple to prepare, there are a few common mistakes that can detract from the final result:
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Overcooking the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it is no longer pink. Overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough, which will affect the texture of the soup.
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Using Regular Tomatoes: While fresh tomatoes are delicious, they don’t provide the same depth of flavor as fire-roasted tomatoes. Using the right type of tomato is key to achieving the signature smoky flavor of this soup.
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Not Charring the Corn: Charring the corn is an essential step in developing the smoky flavor of the soup. Don’t skip this step or substitute the corn with canned corn, as it won’t give the same rich taste.
Pairing Chicken Tortilla Soup
When serving chicken tortilla soup, consider pairing it with a drink that complements its bold, smoky flavors. A light Mexican beer, such as Corona or Modelo, pairs well with the heat and spice of the soup. For a non-alcoholic option, you could serve the soup with iced tea or a refreshing limeade. A simple, light cocktail like a margarita can also be a great choice to enhance the meal.
Conclusion
Chicken tortilla soup with charred corn and fire-roasted tomatoes is an exceptional dish that brings together the richness of chicken, the smokiness of charred corn, and the tanginess of fire-roasted tomatoes. This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also versatile, allowing you to adjust it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight meal, a comforting dish for a chilly day, or as part of a larger Mexican-inspired dinner, this soup will impress everyone at the table. Enjoy it with a squeeze of lime and your favorite toppings for a truly satisfying meal.
