- Tortillas (key ingredient, adds texture and flavor)
- Tomatoes (rich in flavor, use canned or fresh tomatoes)
- Onion (important for the base flavor, diced finely)
- Bell peppers (adds color and sweetness, choose any color you prefer)
- Jalapeño pepper (optional but recommended for heat; remove seeds for milder taste)
- Garlic cloves (crushed to release strong flavors)
- Celery stalks (for added depth of flavor)
- Carrots (sweetness and nutrients, cut into small pieces)
- Chicken broth (essential for the soup's base, use low-sodium if needed)
- Lime juice (adds freshness and zest; use fresh lime)
- Cilantro (fresh chopped cilantro for garnish; enhances overall taste)
- Salt (to season to taste)
- Black pepper (for additional flavor)
- Chili powder (optional, gives a traditional Mexican spice kick)
- Ground cumin (traditional seasoning in Mexican cuisine)
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Steps
### Delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Mexican Delight
Chicken tortilla soup is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of Mexico with comforting ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating this hearty and delicious soup.
#### **Ingredients**
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 large onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges for serving
#### **Step-by-Step Recipe**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
- Begin by slicing your chicken breasts or thighs into thin pieces.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:**
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onions are translucent and soft (about 5 minutes).
3. **Add Chicken and Spices:**
- Place the chicken pieces into the pot along with 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
- Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. **Simmer the Soup:**
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. **Incorporate Tomatoes and Corn:**
- Add 2 cans of diced tomatoes with green chilies and 1 cup of frozen corn kernels.
- Cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld together.
6. **Add Tortilla Strips:**
- Just before serving, add the cut strips of tortillas into the soup. This adds a delightful crunch and texture.
- Stir gently so that the tortillas soften without breaking apart completely.
7. **Finish with Garnishes:**
- Serve the chicken tortilla soup hot in bowls, garnished with chopped cilantro and slices of lime.
- Squeeze some fresh lime juice over each bowl for an extra burst of flavor.
#### **Tips for Perfect Soup**
- Use high-quality chicken broth to enhance the overall taste.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking.
- Adjust the amount of cumin and oregano based on your preference for stronger Mexican flavors.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful chicken tortilla soup on a chilly evening or any day you're craving a taste of Mexico. Perfect for gatherings or as a weeknight meal, it's sure to become a favorite in your household!