When the weather gets chilly or you just need a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor, a steaming bowl of chicken tortilla soup is always a win. And when you combine the zestiness of jalapeños with the heartiness of a rich chicken broth, you have a dish that’s not only delicious but incredibly satisfying. The Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup is a vibrant, flavorful take on the classic soup that packs a punch of heat and depth, making it perfect for cozy dinners or even a flavorful lunch.
This soup has become a favorite for many thanks to its perfect balance of spice, savory chicken, and crispy tortilla strips. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily modified to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a spice-lover or someone who’s just dipping their toes into the world of heat, this recipe has something for everyone.
Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for creating your very own Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup at home. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this one!
Ingredients Needed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and creating a rich base flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds depth and sweetness to balance the heat.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A classic flavor base to elevate the soup.
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, sliced – These bring the signature heat. Remove seeds for less heat if preferred.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – This adds tang and an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Provides a smoky, earthy flavor that complements the heat of the jalapeños.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – Enhances the spicy depth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – A bit of smokiness to balance the dish.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The base of the soup, creating a rich, savory foundation.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Opt for rotisserie chicken for an easy, time-saving option.
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels – Adds a slight sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1 cup black beans (optional) – Adds protein and heartiness to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 cup tortilla strips – For that classic crispy element that makes the soup truly satisfying.
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Toppings (optional But Recommended)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté The Base Flavors
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and slightly golden.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced jalapeños. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the jalapeños to release their heat.
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Add Spices And Tomatoes
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Let the spices toast in the oil for about 1 minute to bring out their aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, and stir everything together. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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Build The Soup
- Add the chicken broth, shredded chicken, frozen corn, and black beans (if using). Bring the soup to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, so the flavors can meld together and the soup thickens slightly.
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Prepare The Tortilla Strips
- While the soup is simmering, prepare your tortilla strips. If you have store-bought tortilla chips, you can use those for convenience. For homemade, cut corn tortillas into strips and sauté in a bit of oil until golden and crispy.
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Final Adjustments
- Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust the heat by adding more jalapeños if you like it spicier.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and any other desired toppings like avocado or a dollop of sour cream.
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Serve And Enjoy!
- Your Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup is now ready to be enjoyed! It’s best served hot with a side of lime to squeeze over and fresh cilantro for that bright, refreshing taste.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the key ingredients and their roles in this dish can help you appreciate each flavor layer:
- Jalapeños: These are the star ingredient in this recipe. They provide a fresh, slightly fruity heat that’s much more complex than just “spicy”. The seeds and ribs of the pepper carry the most heat, so adjust according to your preference.
- Chicken Broth: A rich, savory broth is essential for any great soup. It acts as the foundation for all the other flavors to come together.
- Tortilla Strips: These provide crunch and texture contrast. Their crispy nature adds a satisfying bite to the soup that balances out the creamy, soft components.
- Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices are essential for depth. The cumin adds smokiness, while chili powder gives a mild heat and complexity that complements the jalapeños.
- Shredded Chicken: For the protein base, shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, but any cooked chicken works great here. It soaks up the soup’s flavors while keeping the dish hearty.
Expert Tips
- Adjusting the Heat: If you prefer a milder soup, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds entirely. Alternatively, if you’re a spice enthusiast, feel free to add more jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Making It Ahead: This soup actually gets better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. If you’re meal prepping, you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to keep the tortilla strips separate to avoid sogginess.
- Thickening the Soup: If you like a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free Option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth, black beans, or a plant-based protein like tofu. Also, skip the sour cream and cheese and top with avocado and extra cilantro for a fresh, creamy element.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with a mix of beans and corn for added protein.
- Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup: For those who really like to turn up the heat, add some extra jalapeños or switch to a hotter variety like serrano or habanero peppers.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Top with plenty of shredded cheese (cheddar, jack, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack) and broil for a melty, golden topping.
- Slow Cooker: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Just throw everything in, except the tortilla strips, and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the strips just before serving.
Final Words
This Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup is an explosion of flavors and textures that make it the perfect comforting meal, especially when you want something that’s spicy, savory, and just downright satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or any time you need a little extra kick in your meal rotation.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The ingredients for Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup typically include chicken breasts, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, green chilies, jalapenos, onions, garlic, corn, black beans, tortilla chips, and various seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and salt.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup along with the other ingredients, making the recipe quicker and easier.
How Spicy Is Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The soup can be moderately spicy due to the jalapenos and green chilies. However, you can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapenos and other spicy ingredients based on your preference.
Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with plant-based protein options like tofu or beans, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I Freeze Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer. It can be kept for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
How Long Does It Take To Make Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The preparation time for this soup is usually about 10-15 minutes, and the cooking time is around 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken and how quickly you simmer the broth.
What Toppings Can I Add To Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Common toppings for this soup include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and crispy tortilla strips. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Can I Use Homemade Chicken Broth Instead Of Store-bought?
Yes, homemade chicken broth can add more depth and richness to the flavor. Just ensure that it’s well-seasoned before adding it to the soup.
What Is The Best Type Of Tortilla Chips To Use In This Recipe?
Thick, sturdy tortilla chips work best because they won’t dissolve too quickly in the soup. Look for chips that are not too salty so they don’t overpower the flavors of the soup.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Jalapeno Tree Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Just be sure to chop them finely so they cook quickly and integrate well with the soup.