My family loves this chicken tortilla soup for its rich and savory flavor, diverse variety of textures, and comforting, customizable nature. This versatile dish allows us to personalize it with different toppings according to our mood or to accommodate dietary preferences like dairy-free or gluten-free. I appreciate that it makes a nutritious meal and that it is simple to make! Chicken tortilla soup is a convenient, healthy, and satisfying choice – at least for my family. Try it and see what you think! SKIP TO RECIPE BELOW
FAQs About Chicken Tortilla Soup
Below are some frequently asked questions about chicken tortilla soup and their answers.
Should I use fresh tomatoes?
You can if you like, but the canned fire roasted tomatoes taste great in this soup and are super convenient.
Can I add chili peppers to make the soup hot and spicy?
Absolutely. This recipe is pretty mild, but if you prefer a spicier version, you can add jalapeno, serrano, or poblano chili peppers.
Can I substitute shredded cheddar cheese for the Monterey Jack cheese?
Of course, you can use whichever type of cheese you like best. Pepper jack cheese or a Mexican blend are popular options too.
How do I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Simply leave out the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. For vegetarian toppings, try avocados or vegan cheese.
Can chicken tortilla soup be made the day before?
Yes! This soup is delicious made a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.
What side dishes go well with this soup?
We love to serve chicken tortilla soup with fresh bread, especially cornbread. A salad is a great side too.
Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Combine chicken, black beans, corn, peppers, onion, fire-roasted tomatoes, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and chicken broth in a large slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low until chicken is fully cooked and falling apart, generally 5-6 hours.
- Shred the chicken with a fork and return to soup.
- Garnish your soup with a lime wedge and cilantro before serving, and serve cheese, tortilla crisps, sliced avocado, and sour cream on the side. As some people prefer a lower calorie or gluten and/or dairy-free soup, I tend not to add these items to the soup before serving.
Notes
Leslie Farin is the Publisher and Founder of 50PlusToday. She is an experienced communications and marketing professional passionate about working with older adults and their families. She works with a team of writers to provide essential and cutting-edge information related to the 50Plus community.
