Sunshine Chicken Tortilla Soup a Healthy and Hearty Delight
- Recipe Introduction
- Sunshine Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Healthy and Hearty Delight
- Let's Make Some Magic Happen
- Get Your Ingredients Ready
- Ingredients & Equipment
- Cooking Method: Simmering Your Way to Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Recipe Notes for Your Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bit of sunshine in a bowl? Honestly, who doesn't? This healthy chicken tortilla soup recipe is just the ticket.
It's packed with flavour and will warm you up from the inside out, plus it's super satisfying.
Brief Overview
Chicken tortilla soup hails from Mexico, offering a rich tapestry of flavors. This easy chicken tortilla soup recipe is ready in under an hour.
It makes around 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner.
Main Benefits
This version is a lighter take on the classic, so it's both nourishing and delicious. Perfect for a chilly evening, or just when you're craving something comforting.
What makes this low sodium chicken tortilla soup so special? It's the fresh ingredients and the vibrant spices!
Okay, let's get this show on the road. Here's what you need:
Sunshine Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Healthy and Hearty Delight
This Mexican chicken soup recipe is a brighter take on a classic. Packed with lean chicken and vibrant vegetables, it’s a guilt free way to enjoy familiar flavors.
Forget heavy versions; this is sunshine in a bowl! The lean chicken tortilla soup uses fresh ingredients and relies on spices for flavour.
It is easy to do, involving mostly chopping veggies and simmering. It should only take about 55 minutes to make and serves 6 people in total.
Here is a list of all the ingredients you are going to need to be able to cook this recipe, remember is important that you get the right temperature in the chicken.
Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F/ 74° C .
Let's Make Some Magic Happen
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle
Get Your Ingredients Ready
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lime, juiced
For the Toppings (Optional):
- Avocado, diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Reduced fat sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lime wedges
- Baked tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
I remember the first time I made chicken tortilla soup with black beans . Honestly, I was a bit intimidated! But it turned out so much easier than I expected.
Now it's a regular on our dinner table.
Alright, let's get this show on the road! We are about to embark on this Sunshine Chicken Tortilla Soup journey! I'm so excited to share this healthy chicken tortilla soup with you.
It's like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want something comforting. This easy chicken tortilla soup is way better than anything you'd get in a tin.
Plus, it is bursting with goodness.
Ingredients & Equipment
Okay, here's the lowdown on what you'll need for our Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe . Don't worry, it's all pretty straightforward! We're aiming for a lean chicken tortilla soup that's packed with flavor but doesn't weigh you down.
Main Ingredients
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ) This is our starting point. It all starts with good fat.
- Yellow onion: 1 medium , finely diced (approx. 1 cup / 150g ) You'll know it's good if it's firm.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced Fresh is best. Honestly, the smell is already making me hungry.
- Red bell pepper: 1 , finely diced (approx. 1 cup / 150g ) Adds a little sweetness to the soup.
- Jalapeno pepper: 1 , seeded and minced (optional) For a spicy chicken tortilla soup .
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml )
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml )
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ) Adds a smoky depth.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 4 cups ( 950 ml ) Crucial for a low sodium chicken tortilla soup .
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained ( 411g ) This is the soup base, and should be good.
- Black beans: 1 (15 ounce) can, rinsed and drained ( 425g ) This will make this a Chicken Tortilla Soup with Black Beans .
- Frozen corn: 1 cup ( 150g )
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 pound ( 450g ) Go for organic if you can.
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml )
- Lime: 1 , juiced
Seasoning Notes
Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika are a must. This is the essential spice trio. A pinch of cayenne pepper, this is a good option if you like a little heat without the flavor of the Jalapeno.
For a deeper flavour, add a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers. Remember to remove it before serving.
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven This is where the magic happens.
- Cutting board and Chef's knife Obvious, but essential for chopping veggies.
- Measuring spoons and cups Accuracy is key.
- Ladle For serving up that delicious soup.
Right, that's everything covered! Let's dive into cooking this quick chicken tortilla soup ! I promise, it's easier than learning the offside rule.
Cooking Method: Simmering Your Way to Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Okay, let's get this show on the road! We are tackling the glorious method of simmering to make our healthy chicken tortilla soup .
Honestly, it's simpler than baking a Victoria sponge, and almost as satisfying. Simmering is key. It gently coaxes all those gorgeous flavours together.
Prep Steps: Get Your Mise en Place Sorted!
First things first, prep is everything! Dice your onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Mince that garlic like you mean it.
Next, measure out your spices. Having everything ready saves a world of time, trust me! Mise en place , as the fancy chefs say.
Remember the jalapeño is optional. Wear gloves if you're sensitive or you'll be feeling the heat later, you know?.
step-by-step: Simmering to Perfection
Here's the deal, step-by-step, for the perfect simmered chicken tortilla soup recipe :
- Sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeno in olive oil until softened (about 5- 7 minutes ).
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in black beans and corn.
- Add chicken breasts and oregano. Simmer covered for 20- 25 minutes . Aim for an internal temperature of 165° F/ 74° C .
- Shred chicken with two forks. Return it to the pot.
- Stir in lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, topped with avocado, cilantro, and tortilla strips.
Pro Tips: Unlock Simmering Secrets!
Want to really nail your easy chicken tortilla soup ? Simmering is about low and slow. Don't rush it! Avoid using too much salt.
This recipe is already flavourful with spices, making it a low sodium chicken tortilla soup option.
And there you have it my take on simmering your way to the perfect healthy chicken tortilla soup . It's not just a recipe; it's an experience.
A warm bowl of comfort, spiced just right. This vibrant and lean Mexican chicken soup is great to create an easy spicy chicken tortilla soup to warm you up from the inside.
Adding some fresh diced chicken tortilla soup with avocado before serving will elevate the experience even more. This recipe is so quick to make, this quick chicken tortilla soup will become one of your family's favorites.
Enjoy every spoonful!
Recipe Notes for Your Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Alright, let's get this show on the road! Before you dive into making this healthy chicken tortilla soup , a few extra tips and tricks can really elevate the experience.
I'm sharing these because I learned them the hard way, honestly!
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key, you know? Ladle that Chicken Tortilla Soup with Avocado into a nice bowl. A swirl of reduced fat sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a few crispy tortilla strips make it look extra inviting.
Serve it with lime wedges, 'cause a squeeze of lime always brightens things up. A warm slice of cornbread on the side? Oh my gosh, yes! It’s a hug in a bowl, this Mexican Chicken Soup .
Super Storage Secrets: Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup keeps well. Let it cool completely before popping it into an airtight container.
It'll happily chill in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is your friend. Portion it out into freezer safe containers.
It will last up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Remixing the Magic: Variations
Want to tweak this Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe ? Go for it! To make a vegetarian version, ditch the chicken and load up on extra black beans and sweet potatoes.
Boom! Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, easy peasy. For a spicy kick, add some chipotle peppers. For a Low Sodium Chicken Tortilla Soup version, just remember to check the sodium levels in your broth and canned ingredients.
The Good Stuff: Nutrition Basics
This isn't just delicious, it's good for you too! Each serving of this Lean Chicken Tortilla Soup is packed with about 35 grams of protein.
That will keep you feeling full and satisfied. With approximately 7 grams of fiber, your gut will be happy. Plus, it's loaded with vitamins and antioxidants from all those lovely veggies.
Around 320 calories per serving. It’s a win-win, truly!
Making Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup is easier than you think, and so good for you. I've made this Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup so many times, and it always brings a smile to everyone's face.
Go on, give it a go! You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this chicken tortilla soup actually healthy? It sounds too good to be true!
Absolutely! This healthy chicken tortilla soup recipe focuses on lean protein, plenty of vegetables, and uses low-sodium broth to keep things lighter. We've also minimised the use of extra fats and sodium, relying on spices for flavour. Think of it as a hug in a bowl, without the guilt!
Can I make this healthy chicken tortilla soup vegetarian?
You bet! Simply omit the chicken and swap in extra beans like pinto or kidney beans. Bulk it up with more vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It's a cracking vegetarian alternative!
How long does this soup last, and what's the best way to store it?
This soup is even better the next day! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the vegetables might change slightly after freezing.
What are some good toppings for healthy chicken tortilla soup? I'm looking for something a bit different.
Besides the usual suspects like avocado and sour cream, try a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein. A sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese adds a salty kick, or a drizzle of hot sauce will really wake you up! Crispy baked tortilla strips, rather than fried, are a nice healthy way to add some crunch.
My soup is a bit bland. How can I add more flavour?
Taste as you go and don't be shy with the spices! A squeeze of lime juice brightens everything up. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little extra heat. For a deeper flavour, try roasting your tomatoes before adding them to the soup. It's a game changer, honestly!
Can I make this in a slow cooker or instant pot instead?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker, sauté the aromatics first, then add all ingredients (except the lime juice and toppings) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving and stir in the lime.
For an Instant Pot, sauté the aromatics, then add all ingredients (except lime juice and toppings). Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Shred the chicken, stir in the lime juice, and enjoy!
Sunshine Chicken Tortilla Soup A Healthy And Hea
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 320 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 7g |
