Azteca Tortilla Soup Recipe

The Azteca Tortilla Soup is made with olive oil, onion, garlic, bell pepper, tomatoes, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black beans, corn, shredded chicken, and lime juice. This hearty and flavorful Azteca Tortilla Soup recipe creates a delicious dinner that takes about 45 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 4-6 people.

Azteca Tortilla Soup Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced (or one can of diced tomatoes)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (or cooked beans for a vegetarian option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Azteca Tortilla Soup Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add tortilla strips and fry until golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt. Set aside.
4. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in minced garlic and bell pepper; cook for another 3-4 minutes until the pepper softens.
7. Mix in the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and add black beans and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
9. Allow to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Stir in shredded chicken and lime juice. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through.
11. Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips and chopped cilantro.
12. Optionally, garnish with avocado slices, cheese, or sour cream.

Recipe Tips

• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken or vegetable broth for a richer taste. This can significantly enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the soup’s flavor. Add them right before serving for a fresh burst of taste.
• Incorporate More Texture: For added texture, consider adding diced zucchini or bell peppers to the soup. They will cook quickly and provide a nice crunch.

How To Store Azteca Tortilla Soup

Refrigerate: Allow the Azteca Tortilla Soup to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the pot with a lid. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup. First, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How to Reheat Leftover Azteca Tortilla Soup Recipe

In The Stove: Pour the leftover Azteca Tortilla Soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is hot all the way through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

In The Microwave: Place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

In The Instant Pot: Add the leftover soup to the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and set it to the “soup” setting for about 5 minutes. Allow for a natural release of pressure before opening the lid.

What To Serve Azteca Tortilla Soup Recipe

Azteca Tortilla Soup pairs well with warm cornbread, crispy tortilla chips, a fresh garden salad, and sliced avocado. It can also be served alongside grated cheese, sour cream, lime wedges, and jalapeño slices for better savoring of the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I adjust the spice level of the soup?

To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of chili powder and cumin. If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I prepare the soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead of time. Allow it to cool, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it before serving. The flavors will deepen and improve overnight!

What toppings do you recommend for the soup?

Some great toppings for Azteca Tortilla Soup include crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, grated cheese, sour cream, and lime wedges. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!

Try more recipes:

• Applebee’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
• Tyler Florence French Onion Soup Recipe
• Beefy Onion Soup Recipe