If you’re craving something warm and hearty that’s packed with flavor, look no further than chicken tortilla soup. This iconic Mexican dish features a savory broth, shredded chicken, and crispy tortilla strips. A variety of vibrant toppings make every spoonful deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re a beginner cook or want to try something new, you’ll find that learning how to make chicken tortilla soup at home is easier than you think—and it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
What is chicken tortilla soup?
Chicken tortilla soup is a traditional Mexican dish that blends bold flavors and textures. It is believed to have originated in central Mexico, where cooks combined leftover tortillas with spicy broth and local produce to create this flavorful soup. Today, it’s a favorite across many cultures, appreciated for its balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch.
The soup’s base is made from roasted tomatoes, chiles, and chicken broth. It’s filled with shredded chicken and topped with crispy tortilla strips, fresh avocado, cheese, and sometimes sour cream. The result is a layered, soul-warming bowl that tastes homemade and authentic.
Essential ingredients for a flavorful base
The richness of chicken tortilla soup stems from the careful combination of fresh and dried ingredients. While there are many variations, the essentials usually include:
- Tomatoes: They form the base of the soup when roasted or stewed.
- Chiles: Guajillo or pasilla peppers add smoky heat and depth of flavor.
- Chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, it ties everything together.
- Onions and garlic: These provide a fragrant, savory base.
- Spices: Cumin, oregano, and a pinch of chili powder can enhance the flavor profile.
- Shredded chicken: Often pre-cooked or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Tortilla strips: Fried or baked, they add the perfect crunch.
If you have these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to making a comforting and satisfying meal.
Step-by-step guide to making chicken tortilla soup
Are you ready to start cooking? Here’s a simple guide on how to make chicken tortilla soup from scratch.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Roast three to four medium tomatoes under the broiler or in a dry skillet until charred.
- Toast one or two dried guajillo or pasilla peppers for 30 seconds per side, or until fragrant. Then, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes.
- Blend the tomatoes, the soaked peppers, two cloves of garlic, and half an onion until smooth.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
4. Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large pot and pour in the blended mixture.
5. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce darkens.
6. Add four cups of chicken broth, half a teaspoon of cumin, and salt to taste.
7. Stir in two cups of cooked, shredded chicken. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the toppings
8. Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips and fry them in oil until they are golden and crispy. Drain them on paper towels.
9. Dice the avocado and crumble the panela or queso fresco. Prepare the sour cream or Mexican crema.
10. For added flavor, optionally crisp up pork cracklings and smoky pasilla strips.
Step 4: Serve
11. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
12. Top with tortilla strips, cheese, avocado, sour cream, and pork rinds.
13. Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!
Toppings that take it to the next level
The beauty of chicken tortilla soup lies in its toppings. These additions not only enhance the flavor, but also introduce diverse textures that elevate the dish.
- Crispy Tortilla Strips: The crunch is essential.
- Panela cheese: This mild, crumbly cheese softens in warm broth.
- Sour cream or crema adds a creamy, tangy finish.
- Avocado: Adds richness and freshness.
- Pork cracklings (chicharrón): They provide a salty, crunchy contrast.
- Pasilla pepper strips: They infuse a smoky depth and gentle heat.
Mix and match to suit your taste, or load up your bowl with everything for a full-on feast.
A taste of tradition at Oh! Mexico
For those who want to experience this expertly crafted dish, a visit to Oh! Mexico in Miami Beach is highly recommended. Their tortilla soup is made with tomato, guajillo pepper, chicken broth, tortilla strips, panela cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, crispy pork rinds, and pasilla pepper strips. This deeply satisfying version captures the essence of Mexican cuisine and pairs well with the restaurant’s vibrant ambiance.
Craving authentic Mexican flavors? Reserve a table at Oh! Mexico now: Lincoln Road, Española Way or Ocean Drive.
Tips for making it your own
Chicken tortilla soup is incredibly versatile. Once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to customize it!
- Add extras like black beans, corn, or zucchini to increase variety.
- Use rotisserie chicken to reduce cooking time.
- To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for beans and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chiles, depending on your preference.
- You can make the soup ahead of time — the flavors actually deepen and the soup tastes better the next day.
Experiment with different combinations until you find your favorite version.
Now that you know how to make chicken tortilla soup, you have a new go-to recipe that’s comforting and full of bold flavor. Whether you prepare it at home for family and friends or enjoy it at a local restaurant, this classic Mexican dish will bring warmth and joy to any table. Mexico, this classic dish will bring warmth and joy to any table. From the first sip of its smoky broth to the final crunch of tortilla, it’s an experience worth savoring—one bowl at a time.
