I have a delicious recipe that never fails to impress my family and friends, and that is my Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe. This soup is packed with flavor, hearty ingredients, and a comforting warmth that makes it perfect for chilly nights. Trust me, once you try it, it will become part of your regular rotation.
What Makes This Soup Special
I love this tortilla soup because it combines various flavors and textures. The richness of cheese, the freshness of vegetables, and the crunch of tortilla strips create a delightful experience. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug on a plate, and the added spice brings a fun Southwestern kick to it.
Ingredients for Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup
Before I get into the cooking steps, let’s go over the ingredients. This soup is quite flexible, so feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Tortilla chips for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
How to Make Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup
Making this soup is almost as enjoyable as eating it. Here’s how I do it:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
I find that starting with cooked chicken is best. You can grill it, poach it, or bake it; then shred it into bite-sized pieces. This chicken adds a lot of protein and makes for a filling soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they become tender. Next, I add in the garlic for just a minute, letting its aroma fill the kitchen.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Now it’s time to mix everything! Otherwise known as the “good stuff” stage. I toss in shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin into the pot. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Thickening the Soup
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use a few tricks. Sometimes, I mash some of the black beans against the side of the pot. This creates a nice, thicker consistency without altering the flavor. Another way is to let it simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid.
Cheesy Goodness
Just before serving, I add in a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese melts in and creates a creamy texture that makes the soup feel luxurious. I also save a bit of cheese to sprinkle on top when serving. Extra cheese is always a good thing!
Serving Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup
When I serve this soup, I like to be generous with the toppings. Once the soup is in bowls, I add a handful of crunchy tortilla chips, which adds a satisfying crunch. For freshness, I sprinkle some chopped cilantro and place a lime wedge on the side. The squeeze of lime just brightens everything up.
Variations on Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup
This recipe is versatile, so you can customize it to your liking. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra beans or veggies, such as zucchini or carrots.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
- Use Leftovers: This is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken you have on hand.
Storing Leftovers
My family usually devours this soup in one sitting, but if we have any left, I store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It holds up well for 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove. Sometimes, I like to add a splash of broth if it thickens up too much.
Freezing Options
If I make a large batch, I freeze half of it. I let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.
Why You Will Love Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup
There’s something heartwarming about enjoying a bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and comfort. The Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for cozy evenings at home or gatherings with family and friends. It’s easy to make, full of nutritious ingredients, and always leaves everyone wanting seconds.
Cooking has always been a way for me to bond with family and friends, and this soup has become a staple in our home. It brings everyone together for a warm meal, perfect for any occasion. I hope you try out this Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe and enjoy it as much as I do. It’s truly a bowl of happiness!