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Saltgrass Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 6 Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • Soup Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Liquid & Protein
  • 6 cups chicken broth low sodium
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • Beans & Corn
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels frozen or canned
  • Flavoring
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Tortilla Strips
  • 2 corn tortillas cut into thin strips
  • Oil for frying or baking
  • Optional Toppings
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced avocado
  • Extra tortilla strips

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat
  • Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes)
  • Stir in garlic and jalapeño; cook for 30 seconds
  • Add cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano; stir for 1 minute
  • Mix in tomato paste and cook for another minute
  • Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer
  • Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn
  • Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste
  • Stir in fresh lime juice
  • Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes
  • Tortilla Strips
  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat
  • Fry tortilla strips until golden and crispy
  • Drain on paper towels and lightly salt
  • (Baking option: Bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.)

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for deeper flavor
Simmer uncovered to thicken the soup naturally
Add lime juice at the end to keep it fresh and bright
Keep spice moderate so the broth stays balanced
Store soup (without toppings) in the fridge for up to 4 days
Freeze without toppings for up to 2 months