30-Min Tortilla Soup: Instant Comfort

You know those nights? The ones where the week feels endlessly long, and the thought of a complicated dinner makes you want to just order pizza? Yeah, I’ve been there. For years, my kitchen felt more like a place of stress than sanctuary. But then I discovered the simple, pure joy of creating something delicious with my own hands, even on the busiest evenings. That’s exactly why I’m so excited to share this Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup with you! It’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, packed with incredible Mexican-inspired flavors, and guess what? It’s ready in about 30 minutes. This one-pot wonder is perfect for those weeknights when you need a seriously satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. It’s proof that incredible food doesn’t have to be complicated, just like I believe here at Pure Cooking Joy – it’s all about finding that pure joy in the process!

Seriously, this tortilla soup is a game-changer. It’s got tender shredded chicken, a perfectly tangy broth that just sings with spices, and it’s so easy, you’ll be making it again and again. Trust me, it’s the kind of meal that reminds you why cooking can be so rewarding, even when time is super tight. You can catch me sharing more of my kitchen adventures over on my Facebook page too!

SAVE

Why You’ll Love This Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup

Okay, so why is this tortilla soup going to become your new best friend on busy weeknights? Let me count the ways!

• Ready in a Flash: Seriously, it’s a full-on, flavor-packed meal in just 30 minutes. From pantry to plate, it’s lightning fast!
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess equals more joy, right? Everything simmers together in one pot, meaning fewer dishes to wash, leaving you more time to relax.
• Bursting with Flavor: We’re talking that perfect tangy broth, savory chicken, and just the right amount of spice. It’s pure Mexican comfort food that warms you up from the inside out.
• So Customizable: This is your soup, your way! Pile on your favorite toppings to make it exactly how you like it. It’s a fun way to let everyone personalize their bowl.
• Total Comfort Food: It’s cozy, it’s hearty, it’s everything you want in a bowl on a chilly day or after a long day. It’s like a warm hug!
• Uses Pantry Staples: Most of what you need is probably already in your pantry, making it perfect for when you need a delicious meal but don’t want to hit the grocery store. More info on delicious weeknight dinners can be found here!

If you’re looking for more comfort food favorites, you’ve come to the right place!

SAVE

Ingredients for Your Delicious Tortilla Soup

Alright, let’s talk about what magical stuff goes into this bowl of happiness! Having everything prepped and ready to go is my favorite way to make sure things run smoothly. You’ll find most of these are probably already hanging out in your pantry, which is exactly what we love for *easy homemade* meals.

Here’s what you’ll need for this amazingtortilla soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Just a little bit to get things started in the pot.
• 1 medium onion: Chopped up nice and fine.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced, because garlic makes everything better, right?
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: For that classic warming spice.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds that earthy, smoky depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: A little herbaceousness goes a long way!
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): If you like a little kick, definitely toss this in!
• 6 cups chicken broth: This is the base of our tangy broth.
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes: Don’t drain these – all that juice adds flavor!
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies: For a mild bit of tang, undrained for more flavor.
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: This is where the rotisserie chicken shortcut shines! So easy.
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans: Make sure to rinse and drain them first.
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn: Just drain this one.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste, of course. You’re in charge here!

Having all these delicious pantry staples come together so quickly is seriously one of my favorite things about this recipe. It’s why it’s such a go-to for a fast and flavorful *weeknight dinner*.

SAVE

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tortilla Soup

Honestly, the best part about this tortilla soup is how incredibly easy it is. Seriously, it’s designed to be your friend when you’re short on time but craving something deeply satisfying. We’re talking a true one-pot wonder here, so grab your favorite big pot or Dutch oven and let’s get cooking! It truly is a shining example of how we can make amazing soups and salads without all the fuss.

1. First things first, get that olive oil warming over medium heat in your pot. Toss in your chopped onion and let it soften up – usually about 5 minutes is perfect. You want it nice and tender.

2. Now for the flavor explosion! Add in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and that optional cayenne if you’re feeling brave. Stir it all around for just about a minute until it smells absolutely amazing. That aroma just tells you good things are coming!

3. Pour in your chicken broth, the diced tomatoes (juice and all – that’s flavor!), and the diced green chilies. Give it a good stir and bring it all up to a gentle simmer.

4. Time for the stars of the show! Stir in that shredded chicken (rotisserie for the win!), the rinsed black beans, and the drained corn. Season generously with salt and pepper. Taste it here and adjust if you think it needs a little more oomph!

5. Let it all just hang out and simmer for at least 10 minutes. This little bit of time is crucial for all those flavors to get to know each other and really meld together beautifully. You want that chicken to be perfectly heated through and everything to be nice and cozy.

6. And that’s it! Ladle this glorious tortilla soup into bowls and go wild with your toppings. I love having a whole little bar set up for everyone to pick their favorites!

Tips for Perfect Tortilla Soup Every Time

You know, I’ve learned a few little tricks over the years that just make this tortilla soup even better. Cooking is all about finding those little moments of perfection! One thing I absolutely adore is customizing the toppings, it’s like a little party in a bowl, and it reminds me a bit of setting up a fun food station.

Crispy Tortilla Strips are Key!
Don’t skimp on the crunch! While store-bought tortilla chips are fine, cutting up your own corn tortillas and lightly baking or frying them until golden and crisp is a game-changer. It adds such a delightful texture contrast to the tender soup. Trust me on this one!

Spice It Up (or Down!)
The cayenne pepper is totally optional, but if you like a little warmth, a pinch really does wonders. If you’re nervous about heat, just skip it or add a tiny bit and taste. You can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away!

Ingredient Swaps? Totally!
This recipe is so forgiving. If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans work too. No corn? No problem! Feel free to toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers if you have them handy. It’s all about making it work for *you*.

SAVE

Elevate Your Tortilla Soup with a Toppings Bar

Okay, so serving this amazing tortilla soup is almost as much fun as making it! I am all about that toppings bar concept. It turns a simple soup into a whole experience, and lets everyone at the table be their own chef. It’s a little like how I love setting up a fun taco bar for taco night – everyone gets exactly what they want!

Beyond the essentials like creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a bright squeeze of lime, let’s get creative! Think about some shredded Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar cheese for that gooey factor. A dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt is always a winner. If you like a little extra heat, some thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of finely chopped red onion would be fantastic. And for the cheese lovers, a bit of crumbly cotija cheese adds a salty, authentic Mexican touch that’s just divine. These little extras really transform the soup, adding layers of flavor and texture that make every spoonful exciting!

Frequently Asked Questions about Tortilla Soup

Got questions about this amazing tortilla soup? I’ve got answers! It’s so satisfying to know you can tweak a recipe to fit your needs, and this one is super flexible. It’s always a good idea to have a few reliable soup recipes in your back pocket, and this chicken pot pie soup is another great one!

Can I make this tortilla soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make this a vegetarian delight, just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the chicken itself. You could add more beans, extra corn, or even some diced sweet potato or butternut squash for heartiness. For a vegan version, ensure your vegetable broth is vegan and use a plant-based sour cream or yogurt for topping!

How should I store and reheat leftover tortilla soup?

This soup actually tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you can do it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop a bowl in the microwave. Just be careful not to boil it too vigorously, or the chicken might get a little tough.

Can I make this soup ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, this is a fantastic *meal planning* recipe! You can definitely make the soup base ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Keep the shredded chicken separate if you want to ensure it stays super tender, or add it in when you reheat. The toppings are best added fresh right before serving, but having that flavorful broth ready to go makes getting dinner on the table a breeze. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks!

How can I make this tortilla soup spicier?

If you love a bit more heat, you’ve got options! Kick it up a notch by adding more cayenne pepper to the pot when you’re sautéing the spices. You could also stir in some diced jalapeños (seeds and all, if you’re brave!) along with the onions, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce right before serving. A little goes a long way, so start small!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Tortilla Soup

Just a heads-up, this is a ballpark of what you’re getting in each serving, but the exact numbers can wiggle around a bit depending on the brands you use and exactly how much you load up on toppings (no judgment here!).

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Sugar: 8g

Make This Tortilla Soup a Meal Prep Staple

I am all about making life EASIER, and this tortilla soup is an absolute champion for meal prep! Seriously, it’s one of those magic recipes that tastes even better the next day. If you’re someone who loves to have meals ready to go for the week, this is your new best friend. It fits perfectly into my whole philosophy of making meal planning a breeze, so you’re not scrambling when dinnertime rolls around.

Here’s the lowdown: You can totally make the soup base ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. What I like to do is keep the shredded chicken separate if I can, just to make sure it stays super tender, but honestly, even if you add it all together, it’s still delicious. When you’re ready to eat, just gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You don’t want to boil it too hard after it’s already been cooked, or the chicken might get a little tough. Pop a bowl in the microwave if that’s easier! Having that flavorful broth practically waiting for you is a lifesaver. You’ve got this!

Share Your Tortilla Soup Creations!

I honestly can’t wait to hear how your tortilla soup turns out! Did you try a new topping? Did it become a weeknight savior for you? Drop a comment below and tell me all about it! I also love seeing your kitchen triumphs, so feel free to tag me on social media or share your photos. You can find more easy recipes and tips over on my blog!

Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A comforting and flavorful chicken tortilla soup ready in 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner. This one-pot wonder features tender chicken, a tangy broth, and is topped with your favorite fixings.

• Author: purejoyalex
• Prep Time: 10 min
• Cook Time: 20 min
• Total Time: 30 min
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For Serving: Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and green chilies. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like tortilla chips, cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Notes

• For crispier tortilla strips, bake or lightly fry corn tortillas cut into strips until golden.
• Feel free to customize your toppings! Other great options include jalapeños, red onion, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• This soup is a great base for meal planning. You can easily swap chicken for shredded turkey or add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• If you’re looking for quick meal solutions, consider meal delivery services for pre-portioned ingredients.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg