When the chilly winds begin to blow, nothing beats the warm embrace of a hearty, flavorful soup. And if you’re in search of a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to make yet incredibly satisfying, look no further than Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup. Inspired by the famous Costco brand, this soup is a comforting and savory dish loaded with tender chicken, a rich blend of spices, and crunchy tortilla strips. It’s perfect for a cozy evening at home, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a special gathering with friends and family.
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it to fit your own preferences, whether you like it spicier, creamier, or packed with more veggies. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this flavorful soup at home!
Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
The beauty of Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup lies in its balance of textures and flavors. It combines the heartiness of chicken with the depth of a tomato-based broth, topped off with crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, a hint of lime, and a generous sprinkle of cheese. Every spoonful is a comforting burst of flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Before you get started, let’s gather all the essential ingredients for this tasty soup. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless. Chicken breasts are the most common choice, but thighs add extra richness.
- Tortilla chips: Preferably crunchy and sturdy. They’ll hold up well in the soup without getting soggy.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and sweetness to the broth.
- Chicken broth: The base for the soup, creating that rich, savory flavor. Low-sodium versions work well.
- Onion: A medium yellow or white onion works best. It adds a natural sweetness when cooked.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic for a bold aromatic punch.
- Chili powder: For warmth and depth.
- Cumin: Adds an earthy flavor that complements the chili powder.
- Paprika: A little smokiness to balance out the heat.
- Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice brings a fresh, zesty tang.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro for garnish, bringing a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Shredded cheese: Mexican blend or cheddar works best for topping.
- Sour cream: For a creamy contrast to the spiced broth.
- Avocado: Sliced or diced, it adds richness and creaminess.
Cooking Instructions
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking! This recipe is as simple as it is delicious, with minimal prep time and a few basic steps. Here’s how you make it:
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Cook The Chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. After that, shred it using two forks or a stand mixer.
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Prepare The Base
In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary, then sauté the diced onions until they’re soft and translucent-around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices. This will help release the oils from the spices, enhancing the flavor of your broth.
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Build The Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime juice. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add Chicken And Simmer
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, mixing it into the broth. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure the chicken absorbs all the flavors.
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Prepare Tortilla Strips
While the soup is simmering, heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Slice the tortillas into strips and fry them until golden and crispy. Set them aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top with crispy tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, freshly diced avocado, shredded cheese, cilantro, and an extra squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy your bowl of homemade Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup!
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a critical role in creating a balanced, flavorful soup. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Chicken: Provides the protein and is the heart of the soup. Chicken breast is lean, while thighs bring more moisture and flavor.
- Tortilla Chips: These not only add crunch but also absorb the soup’s flavor, becoming soft and almost like dumplings in the broth.
- Broth: Chicken broth serves as the backbone of the soup, giving it a rich, savory base that ties everything together.
- Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika creates the signature warmth and depth of flavor, without overwhelming the palate.
- Avocado: It acts as a creamy counterpoint to the heat of the soup, providing a smooth texture and mellowing the spices.
Expert Tips
To really elevate your Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup, here are some expert tips that can take it from good to great:
- Roast the Chicken: For even more flavor, roast the chicken in the oven with a bit of seasoning before shredding it. This gives it a crispy, caramelized edge that adds depth to the soup.
- Add More Vegetables: Want to sneak in more veggies? Try adding corn, bell peppers, or zucchini to the soup base for extra texture and nutrition.
- Use Homemade Tortilla Chips: Instead of store-bought chips, make your own by baking or frying flour tortillas. Homemade chips have a fresher taste and are easier to control in terms of thickness and crispiness.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier soup, add a diced jalapeño during the sauté step, or sprinkle some hot sauce on top before serving.
Recipe Variations
As with all great recipes, Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup is highly adaptable to suit different tastes. Here are a few variations you can experiment with:
- Creamier Version: For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the broth, creating a rich, velvety texture.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken entirely and use beans (like black beans or pinto beans) for protein. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a completely plant-based version.
- Spicy Version: For those who love heat, add diced serrano peppers or a teaspoon of chipotle in adobo sauce. This will take your soup to the next level with smoky and spicy flavors.
- Crockpot Version: If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach, throw all the ingredients (except the tortillas and toppings) into a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours. Just before serving, add the tortilla chips and your favorite toppings.
Final Words
This Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is everything you want in a soup: hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor. It’s an easy, weeknight meal that will satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe, so you can tweak it to match your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it as is or try out one of the variations, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The main ingredients in Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup include chicken, tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, corn, beans (typically black beans), and seasonings like cumin and chili powder. The soup is often served with tortilla strips for added crunch.
Can I Make Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup From Scratch?
Yes, you can make a homemade version of Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup. Start by cooking chicken and simmering it with broth, onions, garlic, tomatoes, beans, and corn. Add seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and salt. Finish by topping the soup with crispy tortilla strips.
How Do I Make The Tortilla Strips For Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup?
To make tortilla strips, cut corn tortillas into thin strips and fry them in hot oil until they are golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes for a healthier option.
Can I Use A Slow Cooker To Make Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, a slow cooker is a great option for making Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup. Combine all the ingredients (except for the tortilla strips) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken once cooked and serve with tortilla strips.
What Kind Of Chicken Should I Use For Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup?
For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They are easy to cook, shred, and absorb the flavors of the soup. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
Can I Make Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup can be made gluten-free. Use gluten-free tortillas for the strips and ensure the broth is gluten-free by choosing a certified gluten-free chicken broth.
How Do I Store Leftovers Of Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Leftovers of Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the tortilla strips) for up to 3 months.
What Can I Substitute For Chicken In Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup?
If you prefer a vegetarian or meatless version, you can substitute the chicken with extra beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, or with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn. Tofu or tempeh could also be used as a protein alternative.
How Can I Make Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup Spicier?
To add more heat to the soup, you can include additional chili powder, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper. For a smoky kick, try adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or smoked paprika.
What Toppings Can I Add To Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Popular toppings for Kirkland Chicken Tortilla Soup include shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges, sliced avocado, and additional crispy tortilla strips. You can also add sliced jalapeños for extra heat.