Description

Craving something hearty, quick, and full of flavor? This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup checks all the boxes for a comforting weeknight dinner or healthy lunch idea. With tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and bold spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together fast. Perfect for meal prep, dinner ideas, or cozy cold-weather food, this easy recipe is loaded with protein and fiber, customizable with your favorite toppings, and perfect for families or solo cooks. If you’re searching for quick dinner recipes, healthy soup options, or food ideas that don’t skimp on flavor—this one’s for you.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained

1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 cups cooked shredded chicken

Juice of 1 lime

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (for topping)

Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (for topping)

Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping)

Diced avocado (for topping)

Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

4. Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with juices. Mix well to combine.

5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add shredded chicken.

6. Lower heat to a simmer and let cook for 10–15 minutes so flavors meld together.

7. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve hot with toppings like tortilla strips, cheese, sour cream, avocado, and lime.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add a delicious pre-seasoned flavor.

Toasting the spices before adding liquids deepens their richness.

Add a splash of cream or blend part of the soup if you want a creamier texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 290
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: chicken soup, tortilla soup, easy dinner, quick soup recipe, healthy lunch, one-pot meal