If you’re a fan of comfort food that’s both rich and savory, you’ve probably encountered Max and Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup. Known for its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, this soup has been a staple in many American homes and restaurants. And why wouldn’t it be? A dish that combines tender chicken, crispy tortilla strips, a medley of spices, and creamy Velveeta cheese is a crowd-pleaser all the way.
But, what if I told you that you can make this classic at home, easily? No need to visit a restaurant or order takeout-this Velveeta-based version is just as delicious as the one you’re used to, but with the convenience of homemade goodness. So, let’s dive deep into the recipe and learn how to make this comforting bowl of soup step-by-step.
Max And Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Velveeta Recipe
Max and Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a blend of flavors that will transport you to a cozy spot in your kitchen or dining room. The magic lies in the balance of spices and textures. With this recipe, you can recreate the deliciously creamy and slightly tangy flavor profile of the restaurant’s version at home, using the best parts of the ingredients that make this soup so lovable.
The key to this soup’s indulgent taste is Velveeta cheese, which gives it a smooth and creamy texture that holds all the other ingredients together. Combined with the chicken, vegetables, and a dash of chili powder, it’s the perfect winter or fall meal. Plus, this soup is incredibly customizable-add toppings, adjust the spiciness, or even switch out the protein.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this soul-warming Chicken Tortilla Soup with Velveeta cheese. Trust me, once you have these ingredients in hand, it all comes together in a heartbeat!
- Chicken (1 lb): You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Either works fine, though thighs give a bit more flavor.
- Velveeta Cheese (8 oz): This is the star of the soup, giving it the signature creamy texture.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups): Opt for low-sodium for a more controlled flavor balance.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): You’ll want to add some tang and texture with these.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): This will add a mild sweetness and a savory undertone to the soup base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic brings an aromatic depth to the soup that perfectly complements the creaminess.
- Chili Powder (1 tbsp): For the perfect spice kick and flavor.
- Ground Cumin (1 tsp): A necessary ingredient to give the soup that earthy, warm flavor.
- Tortilla Chips (for garnish): Adds a crunchy texture on top.
- Sour Cream (for garnish, optional): A dollop of this will balance the heat and make the soup even creamier.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for garnish, optional): A little extra cheese never hurt anyone, right?
Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down the process of making this comforting soup. Follow these steps and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful bowl ready in no time.
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Prepare The Chicken
- If you’re using whole chicken breasts, poach them by placing them in a pot of simmering water for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked. You can also use a rotisserie chicken for convenience-shred it into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
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Combine The Broth And Tomatoes
- To the pot, add the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
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Season The Soup
- Add the chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt to taste. Stir well to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Add The Velveeta Cheese
- Cube the Velveeta cheese into small chunks and add it to the simmering soup. Stir constantly until the cheese has completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
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Add The Chicken
- Add the shredded chicken into the pot, and continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Finish And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for that extra indulgence.
Ingredient Insights
- Velveeta Cheese: The creamy texture of Velveeta cheese is what sets this recipe apart from other chicken tortilla soups. Unlike traditional cheeses that might clump or separate when heated, Velveeta stays smooth and velvety. It also has a mild flavor that blends seamlessly with the spices and chicken.
- Chicken: Chicken breasts are leaner and absorb the flavors well, but if you want a richer taste, thighs are a great choice. You can also add other proteins like turkey or ground beef for a twist.
- Tortilla Chips: The addition of crispy tortilla chips on top adds a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup, enhancing the texture and providing a nice break from all the creaminess.
- Spices: Chili powder and cumin are the backbone of this dish’s flavor profile. They add warmth and a little smokiness, making each bite savory and satisfying.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Chicken: Freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken works best for flavor. Avoid using pre-cooked frozen chicken, as it can sometimes be too dry.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you find the soup too thick, add extra chicken broth or a splash of water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer the soup a bit longer to reduce it down.
- Don’t Skip the Toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips are not just for garnish-they enhance the flavor and texture, giving your soup that extra pop.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño or a couple of dashes of hot sauce for a kick. You can also try adding a little cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and opt for black beans or corn as your base protein. You could also add some roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers to give the soup more substance.
- Make It Smoky: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone, or use smoked chicken for an even more intense flavor profile.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, you can throw everything into a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. This is perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Final Words
Max and Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup with Velveeta cheese is one of those dishes that just hits the spot every time. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor-comfort food at its finest. And the best part is that you can easily make it at home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a cozy meal for yourself or serving a crowd, this soup is bound to impress.
FAQs
What Is The Main Ingredient In Max And Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Velveeta Recipe?
The main ingredient in this recipe is Velveeta cheese, which adds a creamy and rich texture to the soup, along with shredded chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
Can I Use Other Types Of Cheese Instead Of Velveeta?
While Velveeta is known for its smooth, creamy texture, you can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack. However, the soup may not have the same consistency or flavor as the original recipe.
What Type Of Chicken Is Best For The Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal because it is already cooked, making the preparation process quicker. Alternatively, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are cooked and shredded.
Is This Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Spicy?
The spiciness level can be adjusted based on your preferences. The original recipe typically has a mild to medium spice, but you can add extra jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to increase the heat.
How Long Does It Take To Make Max And Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Velveeta Recipe?
It typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes to prepare and cook the Chicken Tortilla Soup. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, it may take even less time.
Can I Make Max And Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Velveeta Recipe Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
What Toppings Can I Add To The Soup?
Common toppings for Chicken Tortilla Soup include crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Is The Soup Gluten-free?
The recipe itself can be made gluten-free if you ensure that the tortillas used are gluten-free and if you check the labels of other ingredients, such as the chicken broth and spices, for potential gluten content.
Can I Make This Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except the Velveeta cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the Velveeta in the last 30 minutes to melt and blend into the soup.
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftovers Of The Chicken Tortilla Soup?
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool to room temperature and transfer it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.