How to Make a Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup with a Twist

Are you ready to spice up your culinary repertoire? This Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe with a twist is a delightful way to indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine while adding a unique touch that will surprise your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a flavorful dish to impress your guests, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup with a twist, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 tortillas, cut into strips
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • 1 cup queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup:

  1. Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and jalapeño: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Spice it up: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, stirring for another minute to enhance the flavors.
  4. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add chicken and beans: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes to blend the flavors.
  6. Add lime and season: Squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
  7. Prepare the tortillas: In a separate pan, heat some oil and fry the tortilla strips until crispy. Set aside.

Serve Your Soup

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, and top with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro. For added richness, sprinkle queso fresco or shredded cheese on top. This twist on the classic is sure to be a hit!

Tips for a Unique Twist

If you want to further enhance your Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these creative options:

  • Add Roasted Red Peppers: Incorporate diced roasted red peppers for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Incorporate Coconut Milk: For a creamy texture, add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
  • Use Chipotle: For a smoky and spicy kick, add finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

This Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup with a twist is ready to be shared around the dinner table. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic dish for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, wholesome meal. Enjoy!