Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the can of chipotle peppers)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips, for serving
• Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime wedges

Step-by-Step

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and jalapeno (if using). Cook for another 3 minutes, until slightly softened.

4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

5. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Bring to a simmer.

6. Add the black beans, corn, shredded chicken, minced chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce. Stir to combine.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a richer flavor, simmer for up to an hour.

9. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla chips and your desired toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup!

Understanding Chipotle Flavors

Chipotle peppers are smoked and dried jalapeños. They contribute a unique smoky and spicy flavor to dishes.

Adobo sauce is a marinade or sauce, typically containing paprika, oregano, garlic, and vinegar. It complements the chipotle flavor beautifully.

Exploring the Chipotle Spectrum

The heat level from chipotle peppers can vary significantly. Start with one pepper and taste as you go.

For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the chipotle pepper. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

If you’re sensitive to spice, consider using chipotle powder instead. This allows for more controlled flavor.

Pairing Chipotle with Other Spices

Chipotle pairs exceptionally well with cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. These spices create a warm and complex flavor profile.

Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for subtle sweetness. It enhances the smoky depth of the chipotle.

Fresh cilantro adds a bright and refreshing counterpoint to the richness. A squeeze of lime juice brightens everything up!

Customizing Your Soup

This recipe is a great foundation. Feel free to adapt it to your personal preferences.

Add or subtract ingredients to create your perfect bowl of soup. The possibilities are endless!

Protein Variations

While chicken is classic, you can easily substitute other proteins. Try using shredded turkey, pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.

For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs. Remove the bones and shred the chicken after cooking.

Consider adding chorizo for a smoky and spicy twist. Brown it separately before adding it to the soup.

Vegetable Additions

Don’t be afraid to add more vegetables to your soup.

Diced zucchini, carrots, or celery are excellent additions. They add texture and nutrients.

Fire-roasted tomatoes will enhance the smoky flavor. They bring another layer of complexity to the soup.

Thickening Your Soup

If you prefer a thicker soup, there are several ways to achieve this.

Puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. This creates a creamy and satisfying texture.

Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup while simmering.

Mashed avocado can also thicken the soup while adding healthy fats.

Perfecting the Tortilla Component

Tortilla chips are a key element of tortilla soup. Choose your chips carefully!

Consider using restaurant-style tortilla chips. They are typically thicker and hold up better in the soup.

Beyond Tortilla Chips

While tortilla chips are traditional, you can get creative with other tortilla components.

Cut corn tortillas into strips and bake them until crispy. This creates a homemade version of tortilla chips.

You can also fry the tortilla strips for a richer flavor. Be sure to drain them well on paper towels.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tortilla chips on the side. This prevents them from becoming soggy in the soup.

Alternatively, you can crush the tortilla chips and sprinkle them over the top. This adds a crunchy texture.

Consider offering both options to cater to different preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

This soup is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits.

It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. Prepare it in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

Storing Your Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it.

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. This makes it easy to thaw and reheat as needed.

Reheating Your Soup

Reheat the soup gently over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

You can also reheat the soup in the microwave. Be sure to use a microwave-safe container.

Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup becomes too thick during reheating.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is packed with nutrients. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Chicken provides lean protein. Beans offer fiber and plant-based protein.

Vitamins and Minerals

Tomatoes are a good source of Vitamin C. Bell peppers are rich in Vitamin A.

Corn provides fiber and antioxidants. These are important nutrients for overall health.

Making it Healthier

Reduce the amount of sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth. You can also reduce the salt you add yourself.

Add more vegetables to increase the fiber content. Leafy greens like spinach or kale are great additions.

Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier topping.

FAQ Section

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients (except the toppings) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, or shred it after it’s cooked.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Absolutely! Pinto beans, kidney beans, or even white beans would work well in this soup. Use whatever beans you prefer or have on hand.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To make the soup spicier, you can add more minced chipotle peppers, use a hotter variety of chili powder, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also leave the seeds in the jalapeno pepper.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes very well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, cornbread, or quesadillas.