Chicken tortilla soup is one of those dishes that brings comfort with every spoonful. It’s warm, hearty, and full of bold flavors, making it a go-to meal whether you’re trying to chase away a chill or just want something satisfying and vibrant. Inspired by Mexican cuisine, this soup strikes the perfect balance between spicy, savory, and fresh.
What makes chicken tortilla soup stand out is its layering of textures. The broth is rich and flavorful, often infused with ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. It carries just enough heat to warm you up without overpowering the other flavors. Then comes the shredded chicken, tender and juicy, soaking up all the spices while adding protein and substance to the bowl.
But what really brings this soup to life are the toppings. Crisp tortilla strips are the star, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the broth. A handful of freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, creamy avocado slices, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese all help build the perfect bite. Everyone can customize their bowl just how they like it, which makes it a great dish for serving a group.
This soup is also surprisingly easy to prepare. Many versions come together in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, poaching fresh breasts, or cooking everything from scratch, it’s a meal that fits into even the busiest weeknight schedule.
Chicken tortilla soup also holds up well as leftovers, making it a smart option for meal prep. The flavors deepen overnight, and with the toppings added fresh, it feels like a new dish every time. It’s a comforting staple with a zesty kick, perfect for cozy evenings, casual get-togethers, or any day that calls for a little bit of warmth.
In short, chicken tortilla soup is a flavorful, feel-good classic that deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño seeds removed and finely chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 ounces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chicken cooked shredded
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tortilla strips
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped fresh
- 1 avocado diced
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeno and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cumin, chili powder, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, shredded chicken, corn, and black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla strips on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until crispy.
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Nutrition
Soup is life! 🍜
I don’t know, it was okay but too spicy for my taste. Maybe less jalapeño next time?
I totally understand! I find jalapeños can be hit or miss. Maybe try bell peppers instead next time?
Less spicy? Why? More spice equals more flavor! Just handle it! 😜
I found it too spicy, maybe less jalapeño next time. Overall okay.
Yum! I could eat this every day 😍
I totally agree! This soup is so delicious 😋 Even my kids love it!
Looks good, but what’s with the avocado? Sounds weird to me. Can’t imagine it in soup.
Definitely making this again! Simple and delicious.
Could you skip the cilantro? I don’t like it—tastes like soap to me (sorry). Without it, though, the soup still hits.
Made this last night—so comforting! The jalapeño gives it a nice kick without ruining the flavor. Crispy tortilla strips are the best part.
Yes!! I made this too and the jalapeño is perfect—warm but not overpowering. My tortilla strips were extra crispy because I didn’t overcrowd the pan. Will absolutely make again.
Hmm I liked it, but mine got a little too spicy? I think I chopped the jalapeño with some seeds still in (oops). Also I forgot to add cilantro at first lol, but once I did it tasted way better. Still a solid soup.
Wasn’t expecting much, but wow! This is super flavorful. Definitely a keeper.
Hmm, I tried this last night. My kids were like ‘eww’ but I thought it was fine. I guess kids are picky.
One question: is the tortilla strips supposed to go in the oven or… like boil too? I baked them and they were good but I burned one tray oops.
This soup was delicious! My family loved it, especially the lime and avocado on top. Definitely making it again!
I agree, this soup is amazing! I always add extra lime for a zesty kick.
Sounds good, but I don’t get why people like avocado in soup. Seems kinda weird to me.
I didn’t have black beans so I used garbanzo instead. Still turned out great! 🥳
This recipe is really hard to follow. I don’t understand why it has so many steps. Can you make it simpler?
Real good soup! My kids devoured it. Thrilled to find something they liked.
So simple. I kinda just winged it and threw everything together. Not bad!
Super easy recipe! I made it for my dinner party, and everyone wanted the recipe!
I never cooked before but this was simple to follow. A bit messy, but worth it.
Awesome! Im glad it was easy for you. Cooking can be messy but totally satisfying when it turns out good!
I dunno… does it really taste good? I’ve tried some soup recipes and they were just bland! 🤨
I’m usually skeptical of soups with tortilla strips, but wow—crunchy topping really makes it. Next time I’ll add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Same here—I thought tortilla strips would get soggy, but baking them separately is the key. Smoked paprika sounds awesome too!
This soup is amazing! So flavorful and easy to make. I could eat it every day. 🤤
Yummy! I love chicken tortilla soup, I have a similar recipe I always use.
I love chicken tortilla soup too! But I think my recipe is better, it has more spice! Y’all should try it!
Deliciousness on a bowl! 😍 Just what I needed on a cold day. Perfect recipe!
OMG this is the best soup ever! I can’t believe how easy it was! Will make again!
I dunno, seems like there’s too much going on here. Can’t you just make chicken soup?
This tastes like something my abuela would make. Cozy, hearty, and the avocado on top is everything. 10/10 comfort food.
Aww this makes me want a big bowl right now 😭 Cozy for real! I love that avocado + lime combo on top—adds so much freshness to the hearty soup. 10/10 is right.
Not gonna lie, I was skeptical about the avocado on tortilla soup… but okay I get it. Next time I’ll maybe add more jalapeño or some smoked paprika though. Otherwise this looks solid!
I made this and my kids ate it without fuss! Quick and easy! 👏
That’s awesome! Glad they enjoyed it! I’ve been looking for easy dinner ideas for my picky eaters.
I don’t think my kids would eat that… they don’t like soup. But maybe if I hide the veggies?
I was skeptical about adding both jalapeño and chili powder, but it turned out balanced. My whole family asked for seconds.
Hmm I’m skeptical. If you use jalapeño with seeds removed, I’d still expect it to be spicy enough—chili powder might overpower the cumin. Next time I’ll cut chili powder in half and see.
Same!! I was worried it’d be too spicy with jalapeño AND chili powder, but your note made me try it. Turned out super balanced for my family too—definitely doing it again.
I think this needs more salt, I didn’t taste much flavor. Kinda bland. 😕
Didn’t have chicken, used tofu instead. Still came out great! Veggie version!
The tortilla strips step is clutch. I always forget to do anything separate, but baking them really makes a difference. My kids kept stealing them.
I followed it pretty much and it was bland at first. Adding extra salt + a squeeze more lime fixed it. Don’t skip the lime!
I dunno, it just didn’t taste right. Like, why use corn? Does it even belong? Idk.
I messed up the timing—didn’t bake the tortillas till later—so they got soggy in the bowl. Still tasted good, but presentation was sad. Lesson learned.
The steps are easy, but 20 minutes simmer feels short for the onions/garlic—mine wasn’t super soft. Could be just my stove, lol.
Mine turned out fine tbh. If the onions weren’t soft, maybe the pieces were too big? Or I just simmered longer without realizing. Easy recipe though 👍
Totally get that—20 minutes is more of a quick simmer. I usually cook the onion/garlic longer (like 8–10 min) and simmer 30 if I want them super tender. Your stove might be running cool too, lol.
This recipe is good, but where’s the lime? I added a lot more, and it was wayyy better!
Delicious 😋
I made this last night and it was soooo good! Best tortilla soup I’ve ever had!
Looks good, but is it really as good as you say? Sometimes recipes don’t turn out as expected.
I thought it was too spicy with the jalapeno. Maybe less next time?
lol I forgot the cilantro and it was still good. super easy. would make again!
Is 1 tbsp of oil really enough? I doubled it and it was great! Just sayin’.
Not my thing, too many flavors mixed up. Tried to make it my own, but yeah nah.
I get what you mean! Sometimes recipes just have too much going on. Maybe try a basic soup next time?
I can’t eat chicken, so I used beef. It’s still soup right? 😂
I was skeptical about the jalapeño… thought it would be too spicy. But it was just right! Will make it again.
How do you even slice an avocado? Mine was mushy and ruined my soup!
Pretty good but I think it needs a little more salt than the recipe says. Also my tortilla strips got a bit too dark in 10 minutes.
This recipe is fantastic! So easy and delicious. My family loved it!
This soup is amazing! My family loved it and we will definitely make it again.
I’m glad you enjoyed it! It’s one of my favorites too. The addition of avocado really makes it pop!
The instructions were confusing! When do you add the chicken? 🤔
I thought this was gonna be too spicy but it was just right! Even my grandma liked it! Thanks!
Pretty solid recipe. I wish it had slightly more seasoning instructions (like when to add salt), but flavor was still really nice. Tortilla strips stayed crunchy even after serving.
Best tortilla soup ever! The flavors were on point and it was so hearty. Thank you!
Best? I don’t know about that, my grandma’s recipe is still the champion! But I’ll give this one a try.
So glad you loved it! I agree, the flavors are fantastic. Did you modify anything?
This was sooooo tasty! I added extra jalapenos for more heat! 🔥
I don’t usually cook soups from scratch, but this was easy. My kids actually ate it (rare!). I used canned chicken because I was lazy, and it still tasted decent.
This was amazing! Perfect for a cold night. Will make it again!
This soup is amazing! So flavorful and perfect for a rainy day. Will definitely make it again! 🍲
Y’all, this soup is legit! The crispy tortilla strips make all the difference. My new go-to recipe.
Yum! But can I skip the black beans? I hate beans! 😂
Eh, it was ok. My kids didn’t even finish theirs. Not sure if we will try again.
Sorry to hear that! Sometimes kids can be picky eaters. Maybe try adding some cheese or sour cream next time to make it more appealing?
Yummy and filling. I skipped the beans ’cause I ain’t a fan, but it was still good.
Not gonna lie, I’m skeptical about 1 jalapeño being enough heat. I’m glad I left in a few seeds—otherwise it’d be mild for me. Flavor is great regardless.
Mixed up the chili powder with paprika and it was still good! Who knew? 😅
Not bad but I think it’s missing some flavor. Maybe add some more spices? It just tasted bland to me.
Followed the recipe but forgot the lime. It was still okay. Don’t forget tho!
Lime really makes a difference! I’ve made it without and it just ain’t the same. Glad it turned out okay for you though!
Absolutely delicious! My family loved it. The flavors were spot on.
I’m not much of a cook but even I found this recipe easy to follow. Good for beginners!
That’s awesome to hear! It’s great when a recipe can make cooking feel less intimidating. Hope you enjoy every bit of it!
This soup is soooo good! But I forgot the avocado… 😭
Oh no, the avocado is the best part! Still sounds delicious though!
You forgot the avocado??? How could you?! That’s like making pizza without cheese!
Didn’t turn out like the picture. Kinda disappointing, honestly.
Well, if it doesn’t look like the picture, maybe it was not meant to be, haha. At least it should taste good, right?
I’m sorry it didn’t turn out as expected! Maybe it needed more seasoning? Don’t give up, try again!
Tastes just like my abuela used to make! YUMMY! 🇲🇽❤️
Looks good, but my abuela used to make it different! She never put in black beans!
I love that! Nothing beats your abuela’s cooking. Did you add any secret ingredients? 😊
I tried this and got food poisoning. Be careful with the chicken everyone!
I don’t know about the flavor, it feels like there’s too much cumin. 😕
This was good but kinda boring? Like it tastes like “healthy soup” not like restaurant. I think it needs more spices or maybe hot sauce on top.
Mmm I disagree 😅 I thought it was pretty flavorful already, especially with the jalapeño. Maybe you need more salt? I usually taste after simmering and adjust, cuz sometimes the broth brand is milder. Hot sauce sounds good tho.
Totally get you—this one’s a little “healthy soup” vibes unless you turn it up. I’d add extra cumin/chili powder *and* a pinch of smoked paprika. Also, hot sauce at the end (or some chopped jalapeño with the onion) makes it taste way more restaurant-y.
Not as good as I expected. It’s kinda bland. Needs more spice!
Great recipe but I used chickpeas instead of chicken. Still came out tasty!
What’s the deal with the tortilla strips? Can’t we just use regular chips?
Why bother with special strips? Just dunk regular chips in, tastes the same to me!
Tortilla strips give it that crunch, chips are just too salty for soup! Trust me, it makes a difference.
I ain’t got no chicken broth, can I use water instead?
Where’s the tortilla? I thought it was like, chunks or something. Not just strips. Kinda disappointed.
Can I use beef instead of chicken? I don’t like chicken much. Need help before I try this.
Why not just try it with chicken? Beef might be kinda weird in a soup. Just saying.
Sure, you can use beef! Just keep in mind that it will definitely change the flavor. Not sure how it will taste though.
Made this last night—so cozy! The jalapeño gives it a nice kick without being overpowering. I baked the tortilla strips a bit longer so they stayed extra crunchy. 10/10 comfort food.
Wow! My kids loved it! Even the picky eater asked for seconds! 🎉
Too much garlic for my taste. I think I prefer a simpler soup. Not for me. 2/5.
I followed the recipe pretty closely, but my soup ended up thicker than expected. Might’ve used canned corn that was drier? Next time I’ll add a splash more broth.
Mine always gets thick too and I think it’s because the tortilla strips soak up the liquid. If you add them right away, it thickens fast. Try serving them on the side or use more broth to start.
Good call on adding more broth—corn can definitely vary in moisture from brand to brand. I usually simmer it a couple extra minutes and stir before deciding if it needs thinning.
I dont even like black beans, but this worked out great! Who knew!
I had no idea you could bake tortilla strips! What a game changer! 😍
I don’t get it. Baking tortilla strips? Seems like just more work when you can just buy them at the store. 🤷♂️
Right? It’s such a simple step that makes everything taste better! Can’t wait to try this soup with those tortilla strips!
Is it okay if I use chicken from a can? I always do that…
Yummy! But I added some chicken wings too for more flavor. It’s great with more meat!
Pretty good, but I added some sour cream on top. It made it creamier! 🍲
Sour cream sounds like a great idea! I usually just use cheese, but I’ll have to try that next time. Thanks for the tip! 😊
This was bad. Tasted weird with all the cumin. I won’t make again.
A little too much chicken for my taste. Should I cut it down next time? 🤔
Not gonna lie, the tortilla strips got soggy fast in my bowl. Maybe I should’ve added them right at the last second? Flavor was good though—just the texture didn’t hold.
This soup is sooo good! I made it for my family, and they loved it. Will definitely make again!
Made this last night and it was insanely good—like restaurant vibes. The jalapeño + cumin combo is perfect. I used rotisserie chicken and it worked great.
Yes!! That jalapeño + cumin combo is the whole magic. I’ve made it a few times now—using rotisserie chicken is such a win for flavor and time.
My kids refused the jalapeño part (even though I only used half). Sauce still had great flavor without it. Will definitely make again but more mild.
Honestly, same. Half a jalapeño can still be “mystery spicy” to kids 😅 Glad it worked without it though—this soup sounds perfect for repeat dinners.
So you used only half a jalapeño but your kids refused it… sounds like they’re just anti-veg 😂 I bet if you leave it out entirely you’ll still get the chili powder flavor. I’ll try it milder.
I added more beans and it turned out great! More protein!
Made this for my husband, he said it was ‘fine’ but ended up adding hot sauce. Whatever, still a win!
At least he liked it enough to add something! Hot sauce is a great addition for soup. Sounds delicious! 😊
I don’t have all these ingredients… what can I substitute? Like do I really need cilantro?
You can totally skip the cilantro! You could use parsley instead if you want some green, or just leave it out. The soup will still taste great!
This soup is AMAZING! I made it for my family and they all loved it. The flavors are perfect! 5 stars!
Wasn’t a fan. The jalapeño was way too spicy for me. I couldn’t even eat it.
It tastes alright, but I don’t think it needed the lime. Just sayin’.
Pretty solid flavor balance. I’d maybe add a pinch more salt at the end because mine tasted a little flat right out of the pot. Still super tasty though.
Best soup everrr. I added extra garlic (because why not) and it turned out amazing. My whole apartment smelled like tacos. Highly recommend!
Why add black beans? Shouldn’t chicken soup just be chicken? 🤷♂️
Delicious! My family loved it! 🥳
I followed the recipe but it turned out too salty. Maybe use less salt next time.
Eh. The whole thing kinda reminded me of regular chili but with tortillas. Also I accidentally used tortilla chips instead of strips (still edible though).
I used canned corn and it was fine. Also I’m not a cilantro person—so I swapped parsley. Still good, but cilantro would’ve made it pop.
Yes! Canned corn is totally a win when you want it easy. And I get the cilantro thing—parsley still works, just not the same bright punch. Next time you could even try a mix (little cilantro with parsley) if you’re curious.
Hmm I’m not sure about swapping cilantro for parsley—cilantro gives it that “taco” vibe. But canned corn though? That part makes sense. Did you simmer long enough? Also I always add the tortilla strips right in the pot and they never stay crispy lol.
Too spicy for me! 😫 I couldn’t handle the jalapeño. Maybe I should’ve left it out.
Not bad, but mine turned out a little watery. I think my chicken broth was too low-sodium or I didn’t simmer hard enough. Still tasty though.
This soup is amazing! So flavorful and easy to make. My family loved it!
I totally agree! This soup is the best thing ever! My kids devoured it too!
I followed the recipe exactly and it tastes… like regular chicken soup. The cumin/chili powder didn’t pop for me. Could be my jalapeño was mild. Kinda disappointed.
I tried this recipe and it was just okay. Lacked depth in taste. Maybe more spices next time?
I think adding more spices would really help! I love my soup with a kick! 🌶️
Just okay? I fried my chicken in lemon and it made it taste sooo much better, you should try that next time!
I loved the combination of ingredients! The avocado really made it fresh. Will definitely make again.
Delicious! I added some beans and it turned out fantastic! 🥳
This soup is the best! I made it for my family, and they loved it. Thank you!
Pretty good overall, but mine came out a little bland until I added more salt and a splash of lime at the end. Next time I’ll probably use smoked chili powder too.
Hmm I tried it and it was also kinda bland at first. I ended up using extra cumin and a pinch of garlic powder. But I’m not sure I’d add smoked chili powder—maybe too smoky with the lime?
Glad you figured out the salt/lime tweak—this soup definitely needs a little “finishing” to wake up the flavors. Smoked chili powder sounds like a great upgrade too!
I just wanna say that the tortilla strips made it feel fancy! 😄👍
Does this really need cilantro? It made it taste funny to me… 🤢
I actually love cilantro! It gives such a fresh flavor. Maybe try using less next time?
I dunno, cilantro’s kinda hit or miss for people. Some love it, some don’t. Just take it out if you hate it!
This soup is amazing! The flavors were spot on. Thanks for sharing! 😍
I used canned diced tomatoes with green chiles and it tasted way better than I expected. Will definitely make again.
Pretty good, but a bit too spicy for my kids. Might skip the jalapeño next time.
Just skip it next time, easy fix! Kids can be picky about spice. Overall recipe sounds yummy tho!
You could just use less jalapeño or try another pepper! Not everyone likes it spicy. Glad you enjoyed it otherwise!
Doesnt look like the picture in recipes. Where did I go wrong? Help!
Maybe you didn’t let it simmer long enough? Or you missed a step? I always follow recipe pic, so I feel you.
Don’t worry! Sometimes the ingredients can change how it looks. Did you use fresh ingredients? That can make a big difference!
5 minutes for the onion and garlic felt too short to me. I cooked mine longer and the base tasted sweeter.
Just meh. Seemed bland, needed more spice. 🤷♂️
This sounds great but I ain’t got chicken broth, can I use water instead?
Water? Really? That sounds kinda bland. Just get some broth next time!
Using water is fine, but chicken broth really adds flavor! You might wanna add some extra spices if you go that route.
I never cooked soup before, so I’m not sure how it was supposed to taste, but my family liked it!
Made this last night—so cozy and the jalapeño gives it a nice kick. I used smoked chili powder and it was even better. My tortilla strips were crunchy like chips. 10/10.
Quick question: did you remove the jalapeño seeds completely? I’m always worried mine gets too spicy, but your description sounds perfect.
That sounds amazing 😍 I love when the tortilla strips get that chip-crunch. I’ve only made it once—def trying the smoked chili powder next time!
This soup is bland if you don’t taste as you go. I added extra cumin and a pinch of smoked paprika and wow—way better.
Not bad, but the instructions are kinda vague. Like when it says “season with salt and pepper to taste,” how much is that? I guessed and it was okay.