How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup: Spicy, Corn & Black Beans, Top with Tortilla Chips

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chicken tortilla soup. With its rich, spicy broth, tender chicken, and satisfying toppings, it’s a dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavors and a touch of homemade goodness. In this article, I’ll guide you through creating a deliciously spicy version of chicken tortilla soup, loaded with corn and black beans, and crowned with crispy tortilla chips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a celebration of textures and flavors. The heat from the spices, the sweetness of the corn, the earthiness of the black beans, and the crunch of the tortilla chips come together in perfect harmony. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can adjust the spice level to your liking, add more veggies, or even make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder that comes together in under an hour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather everything you need. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe both accessible and convenient.

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained (or 1.5 cups frozen corn)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Toppings:

• Tortilla chips (store-bought or homemade)
• Avocado, sliced or diced
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cotija)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Lime wedges
• Additional fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, jalapeño, and red bell pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This base will build the foundational flavors of your soup.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Spices

Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the chicken breasts or thighs. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Then, sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients evenly with the spices. Let the spices toast for about a minute to release their aromatic oils.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This will allow the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Add Beans and Corn

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the black beans and corn, and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes. This is also the time to season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Finish with Lime and Garnish

Just before serving, squeeze the juice of one lime into the soup. This brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the broth. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a handful of tortilla chips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or use less chili powder. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced serrano chili.
• Homemade Tortilla Chips: For an extra special touch, make your own tortilla chips. Cut corn tortillas into strips, toss with a bit of oil and salt, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing Instructions: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add an extra can of black beans or some diced zucchini for heartiness.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier broth.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or spinach along with the bell peppers for additional nutrition and flavor.

The Story Behind Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken tortilla soup has roots in Mexican cuisine, though its exact origins are debated. It’s believed to have evolved from traditional broths like sopa de tortilla, which typically includes fried tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese. Over time, it has become a beloved dish in Tex-Mex and Southwestern cooking, often featuring tomatoes, beans, and corn. This recipe pays homage to those traditions while adding a modern, customizable twist.

Why This Soup Is a Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering or enjoying it on a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and layers of flavor make it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Plus, it’s a balanced meal on its own—packed with protein from the chicken and black beans, fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the avocado and cheese.

Conclusion

Making chicken tortilla soup at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. With its spicy broth, hearty ingredients, and customizable toppings, it’s a dish that invites creativity and comfort. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of soup that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. Your taste buds will thank you!