This grilled chicken tortilla soup recipe is a flavorful fusion of traditional Mexican ingredients and savory spices. A hearty and warming dish, it combines tender, grilled chicken with a spicy broth, fresh vegetables, and crunchy tortilla strips. A squeeze of lime finishes this soup, giving it a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Photos of Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
While most ingredients for this recipe are commonplace, there are a few that may not be readily available in your pantry. Fire roasted tomatoes provide a smoky depth, which you can find canned in most supermarkets. If fresh corn is not in season, frozen corn is a suitable substitute. Finally, Mexican blend cheese and tortilla strips, although common in Southwestern cuisine, may not be staples in your home. You can find pre-packaged tortilla strips in the salad topping aisle or make your own by frying thin strips of tortillas.
Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup Ingredients
chicken breast: This is the main protein of the dish. Grilled to perfection for a smoky flavor.
chili powder: Gives the soup its characteristic spicy kick.
ground cumin: Adds an earthy flavor, a staple in Mexican cuisine.
granulated sugar: Balances the heat from the spices.
olive oil: Used for grilling the chicken and sauteing the vegetables.
salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season to taste.
corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
yellow onion: Gives depth of flavor.
jalapenos: Adds heat to the soup. Adjust to your preference.
garlic: Enhances the flavor of the soup.
chicken broth: The base of the soup.
fire roasted tomatoes: Gives the soup a smoky undertone.
fresh lime juice: Adds acidity that brightens the dish.
cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a pop of color and flavor.
avocado: Creamy component that balances the dish.
mexican blend cheese: Adds a cheesy, creamy texture.
sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess, balancing the heat.
tortilla strips: Adds a crunchy texture.
One reader, Donni Lamar says:
This grilled chicken tortilla soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and satisfying. The grilled chicken adds a smoky depth, and the blend of spices is perfect. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's become a family favorite. Highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup
How to grill the chicken: Season the chicken with the chili powder mixture and brush with olive oil. Grill for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until the thickest part of the chicken registers 165 degrees F. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then dice into small cubes.
How to grill the corn: If using fresh corn, grill the shucked corn on medium-high heat, turning every 3 minutes, until slightly charred. Cut the corn kernels from the cobs.
How to sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes, then add the jalapenos and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes longer.
How to simmer the soup: After adding the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings, bring the mixture to a light boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
How to serve the soup: Add the diced chicken and grilled corn to the soup along with cilantro and lime juice. Serve the soup with diced avocados, cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.
How To Make Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup
Apart from the flavorful grilled chicken, this tortilla soup is loaded with tomatoes, corn, and Mexican-inspired herbs and spices for a fresh and easy soup.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2chicken breast,(10 oz), boneless skinless
- 2tspchili powder,divided
- 2tspground cumin,divided
- 1tspgranulated sugar,divided
- 2tbspolive oil
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2smallears corn,(or 1½ cups frozen corn), shucked
- 1mediumyellow onion,(½ cups), diced
- 2jalapeños,seeded and diced
- 4clovesgarlic,(1½ tbsp), minced
- 6cupschicken broth,or stock
- 1canfire roasted tomatoes,(14½ oz)
- 1tbspfresh lime juice
- ½cupcilantro,Chopped
- 1largeavocado,diced
For Serving:
- Mexican blend cheese,Shredded
- sour cream
- tortilla strips,or chips
Instructions
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Preheat a grill over medium-high heat to about 450 degrees F. In a small bowl whisk together 1 teaspooon chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ¾ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper and ¼ teaspoon sugar.
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Brush chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil then season both sides with chili powder mixture.
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Grill about for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until thickest part of chicken registers 165 degrees F. Let rest on cutting board for 5 minutes then dice into small cubes.
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If using fresh corn cobs, grill shucked corn on medium-high heat, turning every 3 minutes, until slightly charred. Cut corn kernels from cobs.
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Heat remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add onion and saute for 5 minutes then add jalapenos and garlic and saute for 2 minutes longer.
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Pour in broth, tomatoes, remaining chili powder, cumin, sugar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Bring to a light boil over medium-high heat then reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer 15 minutes. If using frozen corn, add during the last 5 minutes.
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Add chicken and corn to soup along with cilantro and lime juice. Add diced avocados to each serving as well as cheese, sour cream and tortilla chips.
Nutrition
- Calories: 411.20kcal
- Fat: 23.61g
- Saturated Fat: 4.78g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.79g
- Carbohydrates: 27.50g
- Fiber: 6.17g
- Sugar: 9.88g
- Protein: 24.98g
- Cholesterol: 53.18mg
- Sodium: 1207.96mg
- Calcium: 65.77mg
- Potassium: 975.16mg
- Iron: 2.83mg
- Vitamin A: 58.78µg
- Vitamin C: 22.82mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup
When grilling the chicken, ensure to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before dicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful. Also, when grilling the corn, try to achieve a slight char; this will add a smoky flavor to the soup. Lastly, adding the avocado just before serving ensures it retains its fresh taste and texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. You can also chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the fridge to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cooked chicken: If you're short on time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of grilling the chicken breasts from scratch. This will significantly cut down on cooking time.
Utilize canned ingredients: Opt for canned fire-roasted tomatoes and canned corn to save time on shucking and grilling fresh corn. This will streamline the cooking process without compromising flavor.
Prep the toppings: Prepare the toppings such as avocado, cheese, and tortilla strips while the soup is simmering to save time during the final assembly.
Invest in a good quality blender: A high-powered blender can help you quickly blend the soup to a smooth consistency, saving time and effort compared to using a traditional blender or immersion blender.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breast in this recipe, providing a similar texture and taste.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika and cayenne: Paprika and cayenne can be combined to replicate the smoky heat of chili powder in the recipe.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a similar earthy and citrusy flavor profile.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness to the dish while also imparting a subtle floral flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild flavor and high smoke point for grilling the chicken.
corn - Substitute with hominy: Hominy can be used as a substitute for corn, adding a unique texture and flavor to the soup.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onion can be used as a substitute for yellow onion, providing a slightly sharper flavor.
jalapenos - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers can be used as a substitute for jalapenos, offering a similar level of heat and flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient option with a milder flavor.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, adding depth of flavor to the soup.
fire roasted tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes with liquid smoke: Canned diced tomatoes with liquid smoke can replicate the smoky flavor of fire roasted tomatoes.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar level of acidity and brightness.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, offering a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
avocado - Substitute with diced cucumber: Diced cucumber can provide a similar creamy texture and refreshing taste to the soup.
mexican blend cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey jack cheese can be used as a substitute for Mexican blend cheese, offering a mild and creamy flavor.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, providing a tangy and creamy element to the dish.
tortilla strips - Substitute with crushed tortilla chips: Crushed tortilla chips can be used as a substitute for tortilla strips, adding a crunchy texture to the soup.
Presenting Your Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup
Elevate the grilled chicken: Slice the grilled chicken breast into thin, elegant pieces and arrange them in a circular pattern on the edge of the bowl, creating a visually appealing focal point.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves delicately over the top of the soup, adding a pop of vibrant green color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Artfully place the avocado: Slice the avocado into thin, fan-like slices and carefully place them on top of the soup, creating an eye-catching and luxurious presentation.
Sprinkle with Mexican blend cheese: Generously sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese over the soup, allowing it to melt slightly and create a beautiful, appetizing texture.
Drizzle with sour cream: Using a squeeze bottle, delicately drizzle a swirl of sour cream over the soup, adding a touch of creaminess and elegance to the presentation.
Arrange tortilla strips: Place a small bundle of tortilla strips on top of the soup, creating a visually appealing and inviting texture to the dish.
Lay out the grilled corn: Place a few grilled corn kernels strategically on top of the soup, adding a touch of rustic charm and a burst of flavor to the presentation.
Use a sophisticated serving bowl: Present the grilled chicken tortilla soup in a sophisticated, high-quality bowl that complements the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Tortilla Soup
To store leftover grilled chicken tortilla soup, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the soup for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating the refrigerated soup, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out, as the soup may thicken during storage.
To freeze the soup, prepare it without adding the toppings (such as avocado, sour cream, cheese, and tortilla strips). Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents, and freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, transfer the soup to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through. You may need to add some additional chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Prepare the toppings fresh when serving the reheated soup for the best texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup
Reheat the soup in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is heated evenly without overcooking the chicken or vegetables.
If you have stored the tortilla strips separately, you can crisp them up in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the reheated soup. This will help maintain their crunchy texture.
For a quicker option, you can reheat individual portions of the soup in the microwave. Place the desired amount of soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through.
If the soup has thickened during storage, you can thin it out with a little extra chicken broth or water while reheating. This will help maintain the original consistency of the soup.
When reheating, be sure to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may find that the flavors have mellowed during storage, so adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a pinch of salt and pepper can help brighten up the taste.
If you have stored the avocado separately, wait to dice and add it to the soup until just before serving. This will prevent the avocado from turning brown and maintain its fresh flavor and texture.
Garnish the reheated soup with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and some crispy tortilla strips for added flavor and texture.
Interesting Fact About Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup
The Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a variety of spices. This soup is a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. It's a perfect choice for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. The combination of grilled chicken, corn, and avocado adds a delightful twist to the classic tortilla soup. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a warm and comforting meal while also incorporating a variety of flavors and textures.
Is Making Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
This grilled chicken tortilla soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breast, corn, and onion, are affordable and readily available. The use of simple spices like chili powder and cumin adds flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20. Overall, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?
The grilled chicken tortilla soup recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a balance of protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. The use of lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables like onions, jalapeños, and garlic, and the addition of fire-roasted tomatoes and cilantro contribute to the nutritional value of the soup. The avocado topping provides healthy fats, while the corn adds fiber and additional nutrients. However, the recipe also includes some less healthy elements, such as the Mexican blend cheese and sour cream toppings, which can add significant amounts of saturated fat and calories to the dish.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of cheese and sour cream used as toppings, or opt for low-fat versions of these ingredients
- Use whole grain tortilla strips instead of regular tortilla chips to increase the fiber content
- Add more vegetables to the soup, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, to boost the nutrient density
- Replace some of the chicken broth with low-sodium vegetable broth to reduce the overall sodium content
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping to increase the protein content and reduce the saturated fat
Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Soup Recipe
This grilled chicken tortilla soup recipe is a delightful blend of smoky grilled flavors and comforting, hearty ingredients. The combination of grilled chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and charred corn adds depth to the soup, while the spices and fresh lime juice provide a zesty kick. The addition of avocado, cilantro, and Mexican blend cheese adds a creamy, fresh, and cheesy finish. The recipe's balance of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and delicious meal.
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Why trust this Grilled Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe:
This grilled chicken tortilla soup recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The grilled chicken adds a smoky depth, while the fire roasted tomatoes bring a rich, charred sweetness. The use of fresh lime juice and cilantro provides a zesty and herbaceous brightness, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, the inclusion of avocado and tortilla strips adds a creamy richness and satisfying crunch. With the perfect balance of spices and fresh ingredients, this recipe promises a delicious and comforting dining experience.
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