Shredded Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Shredded Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortilla strips; Chopped fresh cilantro; Sliced avocado; Lime wedges; Shredded cheese

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I love a good soup, and this Shredded Chicken Tortilla Soup has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of tender, shredded chicken with a rich and spicy broth is simply irresistible. I enjoy adding my own twist with fresh lime and avocado for extra flavor and creaminess. Each spoonful is packed with vibrant ingredients and the enticing crunch of tortilla strips. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends, making it a versatile dish that I can’t get enough of!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:41:36.474Z

When I first made this Shredded Chicken Tortilla Soup, I knew I had to share it. The flavor is deep and layered, thanks to simmering spices that infuse the broth beautifully. I found that using a rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a wonderful depth to the dish. You won't believe how much flavor you can pack into a single bowl!

One of my favorite aspects of this soup is how customizable it is. After experimenting with different toppings like fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and crispy tortilla strips, I finally settled on a mix that elevates the entire experience. I highly recommend you try it with fresh avocado slices – they add a creamy texture that balances out the spice perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and hearty flavor that warms the soul
Versatile with endless topping options
Quick and easy to prepare on busy weeknights

Understanding the Broth

The base of this Shredded Chicken Tortilla Soup lies in the combination of chicken broth and diced tomatoes. The tomatoes not only add a burst of flavor but also enhance the soup’s color, making it vibrant and inviting. For a deeper flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. If you’re short on time, a low-sodium store-bought option works well too. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to avoid overpowering the broth's natural essence.

To elevate the soup’s richness, roasting the tomatoes briefly before adding them to the pot can create a caramelized, slightly sweet background that compliments the spices beautifully. I recommend roasting them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, letting them blister and develop a deeper hue. This small step can make a significant difference in taste.

Perfecting Your Chicken

For the shredded chicken, using rotisserie chicken is a real time-saver, but if you prefer to cook chicken at home, poaching is a quick and effective method. Simply simmer boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the broth for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it’s fully cooked, then shred. This technique allows the chicken to absorb the flavor from the broth while cooking, giving it a more robust taste.

Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can lead to dryness. Once you shred the chicken, mix it back into the soup to ensure every bite is infused with that spicy, savory broth. If needed, you can reserve some shredded chicken to use as a topping for added texture.

Tailoring Your Toppings

The toppings are where you can truly customize this soup according to personal preference. Fresh cilantro provides a bright, herby flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the broth. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider fresh parsley or green onions as a suitable alternative. I love a squeeze of lime juice right before serving, as it adds an essential zing that balances the soup’s heartiness.

For a bit of decadence, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess, while crispy tortilla strips provide that delightful crunch. You can make your own strips by frying or baking corn tortillas until golden and crispy, which takes about 10 minutes. This not only enhances texture but also allows for a fun, interactive element as guests add their own toppings to their bowls.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings

Corn tortilla strips
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced avocado
Lime wedges
Shredded cheese

Instructions

Steps

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Broth and Spices

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, followed by the cumin and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Incorporate Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir. Allow it to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. You can also make this soup ahead of time and reheat it for a quick dinner option.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Shredded Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can make the soup base up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to not add the toppings until you’re ready to serve; this keeps them fresh and crunchy. If you prefer to freeze it, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It freezes well for up to three months—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When reheating, I recommend doing so on the stovetop over medium heat. This allows you to stir occasionally, ensuring the soup heats through evenly and retains its flavor. If you find that the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with flavor variations can keep this tortilla soup exciting! For a smoky twist, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the broth; it brings a spicy, smoky flavor that elevates the dish. Alternatively, for a fresher take, introducing fresh corn or diced bell peppers can add sweetness and texture. Saute these with the onions and garlic to soften them before adding the broth.

If you're looking to make this dish vegetarian, swap out the chicken for black beans and use vegetable broth. You can still incorporate plenty of veggies like zucchini or carrots for substance. With the rich spices and toppings, you won't miss the meat!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or homemade cornbread to soak up the delicious broth. You can also create a fun taco night ambiance by allowing everyone in your family or guests to customize their bowls with a variety of toppings. This interactive dining experience not only makes the meal more enjoyable but also brings everyone together around the table.

Consider pairing the soup with a refreshing side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette, which complements the tortilla soup’s flavors. A combination of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced radishes provides a crisp textural contrast, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken; just make sure to cook it thoroughly and shred it before adding to the soup.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla strips, the soup is gluten-free.

→ How long does the soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this soup spicy?

Absolutely! You can add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.