Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a soul-warming dish that combines bold Southwestern flavors with creamy cheese, look no further than Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup.

This delectable soup brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a generous helping of cheese, creating a rich, comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re gearing up for a cozy night in or planning a hearty lunch, this soup is sure to please with its perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and satisfying elements.

Equipment Needed

Before you get started, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Can opener
• Ladle

Step-by-Step Recipe

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken: Stir in the shredded or diced chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is heated through and starts to brown slightly.

Making the Soup Base

1. Add the Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
2. Season the Soup: Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate the spices into the soup. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.

Adding Cheese and Final Touches

1. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Achieving the Right Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. Just be sure to blend carefully to avoid splattering.
• Balancing Flavors: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding a splash of lime juice can enhance the flavors and add a refreshing twist.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with warm cornbread, crispy tortilla chips, or a fresh garden salad. For added texture and flavor, top each bowl with additional crumbled tortilla chips, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

Storing and Reheating

• Proper Storage Methods: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Tips: When reheating, allow the soup to thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, you can add a bit of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Nutritional Information

• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and toppings used.
• Nutritional Benefits: This soup provides a good source of protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and corn. The cheese adds richness and extra flavor, making each serving both satisfying and nutritious.

Variations and Add-Ons

• Adjusting Spice Levels: To customize the heat level, adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin. For extra heat, add diced fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Adding Different Toppings: Explore various toppings such as diced avocado, shredded lettuce, or crumbled feta cheese. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ensuring Proper Flavor Balance: Avoid over-seasoning the soup. Start with the recommended spices and adjust gradually. Too much seasoning can overpower the other flavors.
• Avoiding Soggy Tortilla Strips: To keep tortilla strips crispy, add them to the soup just before serving. If you prefer a softer texture, you can add them earlier in the cooking process.

Beverage Pairings

• Drinks That Complement the Dish: This hearty soup pairs well with a cold, crisp beer or a refreshing iced tea. For a non-alcoholic option, try a chilled limeade or sparkling water to balance the richness of the soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
   • Yes, pre-cooked chicken works great. Just shred or dice it and add it to the pot along with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   • Absolutely! Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more beans or vegetables to make it hearty.
3. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables and chicken, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, adding cheese just before serving.
4. Can I freeze the soup?
   • Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
   • Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh jalapeños to increase the heat level. Adjust to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that combines the richness of cheese with the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine. Perfect for any occasion, this soup offers a delightful balance of spice, creaminess, and hearty ingredients. Whether enjoyed on a cold day or as a satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Yield: 6

Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Print

Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty, flavorful soup that combines the rich tastes of Southwestern cuisine with the creamy goodness of melted cheese. Perfect for chilly days or when you're craving comfort food, this soup features tender chicken, spicy seasoning, and crunchy tortilla strips, all elevated by a generous amount of cheese. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to every spoonful.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• For Garnish:
• Tortilla strips or chips
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Sour cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
   
2. Build the Soup Base:
   Stir in the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, green chiles, and chicken broth.
   Add the shredded chicken, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   
3. Add Cheese:
   Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
   Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
   
4. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls.
   Garnish with tortilla strips or chips, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.
   Add a dollop of sour cream if desired.
   
5. Enjoy:
   Enjoy your hearty and cheesy Southwestern chicken tortilla soup!

Notes

• Adjust the spiciness by adding more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce if desired.
• For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and substitute some of the heavy cream with milk.
• You can add other vegetables such as diced zucchini or chopped spinach for extra nutrition.