- Chicken Breasts (main protein source; use boneless, skinless for lower fat content)
- Onion (sliced for depth of flavor)
- Garlic Cloves (minced to release maximum flavors)
- Tomatoes (canned crushed tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes; canned provide a richer flavor base)
- Tortilla Chips (for topping; adds crunch and texture)
- Cumin (ground cumin seeds for warm, earthy taste)
- Oregano (dried for a robust herbaceous flavor)
- Salt (to season the broth to perfection)
- Black Pepper (freshly ground for a burst of flavor)
- Chicken Broth (low-sodium for better control over sodium intake)
- Sour Cream (optional; for creamy texture and tanginess, use low-fat variety if watching calories)
- Fresh Lime Juice (for zesty finishing touch and brightness)
- Avocado Slices or Diced (for topping to add creaminess and healthy fats)
Use these ingredients to create a delicious ancho chicken tortilla soup that is both comforting and flavorful. Opt for fresh and high-quality produce to enhance the overall taste of your dish, and consider adjusting the spice level with more or less cumin and/or chile powder based on personal preference.
Steps
### Ancho Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: A Flavorful and Comforting Dish
#### Introduction to Ancho Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ancho chicken tortilla soup is a deliciously spicy Mexican dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with a rich ancho pepper-based broth. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting lunch. Here’s how you can create this mouthwatering soup at home.
#### Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for serving
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
**Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables**
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), ancho chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
**Step 3: Simmer the Broth**
- Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
**Step 4: Make the Soup**
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the tortilla strips and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to soften in the broth.
**Step 5: Serve the Soup**
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot!
#### Tips for Perfecting Your Ancho Chicken Tortilla Soup
- For an even richer flavor, consider simmering the chicken in the broth separately before adding it to the soup mixture.
- Use good-quality canned tomatoes; they will significantly enhance the taste of your soup.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.
#### Conclusion
Ancho chicken tortilla soup is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings warmth and comfort. Perfect for family dinners or lazy Sundays, this recipe ensures you have a delicious meal ready in no time. Enjoy crafting this flavorful soup with these detailed steps!
By following these steps and incorporating the keywords into your content, you can create an appealing and informative guide for making ancho chicken tortilla soup.