How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup

More like a stew, this chicken tortilla soup is a thick, satisfying meal--perfect for chilly autumn and cold winter nights. Even better, its rich, mouth-watering aroma fills the house. Though it takes a little time and effort, this tortilla soup is well worth it. Total preparation and cooking time is 60 minutes. Serves 8.

Things You'll Need

• 1 lb. chicken - cooked
• 1 cup cilantro - chopped
• 1 (29 oz.) can diced tomatoes
• 2 (15 oz.) cans black beans
• 6 cups chicken stock or broth
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tbsp. ground cumin
• 1 tbsp. garlic powder
• 2 tbsp. taco seasoning mix
• 1 tsp. salt
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 lime - halved
• Sour cream
• Avocado
• Shredded cheese
• Skillet (large)
• Stock pot (large)
• 6 to 8 tbsp. olive oil
• 8 to 10 (6-inch) corn tortillas - cut into wedges or strips
• 1 medium onion - diced
• 6 cloves of garlic - minced

Instructions

1. Chop or shred chicken. Set aside.

2. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Sauté tortillas until lightly browned.

3. Add onion, garlic and cilantro. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until onions are translucent. Remove from heat.

4. Combine diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans and spices in large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.

5. Add skillet mixture (tortillas, cilantro, garlic and onion), chicken, bay leaves and juice from half the lime.

6. Reduce heat. Simmer for 30 minutes.

7. Remove bay leaves and serve. Garnish with sour cream, avocado slices, shredded cheese and remaining lime slices.

Tips & Warnings

• This soup makes great leftovers.

• This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken.

• Add more vegetables, if desired, such as corn, jalapeños and bell peppers.

• You can easily modify this recipe to fit specific dietary needs. Try the following: substitute low-carb tortillas; omit tortillas; use low-sodium chicken broth or even vegetable broth; omit chicken.

• Try making your own chicken stock from scratch. See the related eHow article, "How to Make Chicken Stock," http://www.ehow.com/how_6981_make-chicken-stock.html.

• Be aware of any guests with pepper or chili allergies before serving.

Resources

• RecipeZaar: an online community for sharing recipes.