Who doesn’t love a hearty, comforting soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl? If you’re a fan of zesty, rich, and flavorful meals that come together quickly, Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup might just become your new go-to recipe. Inspired by the popular dish served at Lazy Dog restaurants, this version is perfect for cozy nights, meal prepping, or a fun family dinner.
This Chicken Tortilla Soup brings a wonderful blend of tender chicken, savory broth, and a medley of seasonings, all topped off with crispy tortilla strips. It’s a balanced combination of comfort and freshness, not to mention customizable to fit your taste preferences. Whether you like your soup spicy, tangy, or extra-loaded with toppings, this recipe allows for endless variation.
Ready to dive in? Let’s break it down so you can make this flavorful dish in the comfort of your own kitchen!
Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
This homemade version of the Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup delivers the same bold flavors you’d find at the restaurant but with the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself. It’s quick to prepare, tastes like it’s been simmering all day, and features an amazing balance of textures and flavors.
The beauty of this soup lies in how it layers ingredients for depth-shredded chicken, a rich broth, savory seasonings, and crispy tortilla strips for crunch. The soup comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or enjoy a satisfying meal in under an hour.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start cooking, let’s go through the list of ingredients you’ll need. Don’t worry; these are easy to find at most grocery stores, and they’ll all come together to create a big bowl of deliciousness!
Main Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless and skinless) – These will provide the protein and are easy to shred once cooked.
- Olive oil – For sautéing your veggies and giving them a smooth base flavor.
- Yellow onion – This adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Garlic cloves – A necessary aromatic that infuses the soup with rich flavor.
- Canned diced tomatoes – Adds body to the soup with a touch of tang and natural sweetness.
- Canned green chilies – For a subtle spicy kick that balances the richness of the broth.
- Chicken broth or stock – The base for the soup; go for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Ground cumin – A warm, earthy spice that’s essential to the flavor profile.
- Chili powder – For a mild heat and a rich, smoky taste.
- Paprika – Adds color and a gentle smokiness to the soup.
- Tortilla strips – The crowning glory of this soup. They give the perfect crunch and help add some texture contrast.
Toppings (Optional But Recommended For Maximum Flavor)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix) – Adds creaminess and richness.
- Sour cream – For a tangy, cool contrast to the heat.
- Avocado – For creaminess and a burst of freshness.
- Fresh cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the flavor.
- Lime wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness and acidity.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to bring this mouthwatering chicken tortilla soup to life. It’s simple but tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it!
-
Prepare Your Chicken
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Season your chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a bit of chili powder.
- Brown the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly before shredding it with two forks.
-
Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Build The Soup Base
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), green chilies, and chicken broth.
- Add the ground cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Stir everything together, making sure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
-
Shred The Chicken And Add It In
- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the soup and let it heat through for 5 minutes.
-
Prepare The Tortilla Strips
- While the soup is simmering, you can fry or bake the tortilla strips. To fry them, heat a little oil in a pan and fry the strips until crispy and golden. If you’re baking them, place the strips on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 400°F for 10 minutes or until crispy.
-
Assemble The Soup
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy tortilla strips.
- Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
-
Serve And Enjoy
- Serve hot, and enjoy every spoonful of this comforting, flavorful soup.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients and why they work together is a great way to elevate your cooking experience. Let’s dive into why each ingredient is crucial in creating the perfect Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup:
- Chicken (breasts or thighs): Choosing boneless, skinless chicken is key for easy shredding. The breast gives you a lean protein, while thighs can add a bit more richness if you prefer juicier meat.
- Tomatoes and green chilies: The tomatoes provide a slight acidity that balances out the richness of the broth, while green chilies bring just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the dish.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and paprika create a deep, smoky flavor base that defines this soup. They complement the chicken and broth beautifully and create a comforting, spicy warmth.
- Tortilla strips: Crunchy and salty, these strips not only add texture but also bring a flavor reminiscent of classic tortilla chips. They soak up the broth slightly without losing their crispness.
Expert Tips
To make sure your Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out amazing every time, here are some expert tips to take your cooking game to the next level:
- Use bone-in chicken for more flavor: If you have the time, use bone-in chicken for even richer broth. Simply simmer the chicken in the broth and remove the bones before shredding.
- Make your own tortilla strips: While store-bought tortilla strips are convenient, homemade ones add a personal touch and are often crunchier. Just cut corn tortillas into strips and bake or fry them to perfection.
- Adjust the heat: If you like it spicier, throw in some jalapeños, extra green chilies, or hot sauce. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level.
- Simmer for longer: Letting the soup simmer for a bit longer will allow all the flavors to meld and develop a more intense, savory flavor.
Recipe Variations
While this Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to switch things up depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for beans (black beans, pinto beans, or even roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes). Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the spice level.
- Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup: For a creamier texture, add a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup toward the end of cooking. This makes it richer and more indulgent.
- Chicken and Corn Tortilla Soup: Add a cup of frozen or fresh corn to the soup for added sweetness and a bit of texture contrast.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you want to set it and forget it, you can throw all the ingredients (including raw chicken) into a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken once it’s cooked through, and then serve.
Final Words
Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of those dishes that feels like it’s made just for you. It’s simple yet flavorful, comforting yet exciting. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening with a movie or serving it at a family dinner, this soup is sure to please every palate.
From the richness of the broth to the crispy tortilla strips, every bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability-whether you want to make it extra spicy, creamy, or veggie-packed, you can tailor it to fit your cravings.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The main ingredients in Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup include chicken breast, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, green chilies, corn, black beans, cilantro, and tortilla strips.
How Long Does It Take To Make Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The total time to make Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead Of Cooking Fresh Chicken For The Soup?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup in place of fresh chicken.
Is Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup Spicy?
The soup has a mild to moderate level of spice due to the inclusion of green chilies. If you prefer a less spicy soup, you can omit the chilies or use a mild variety.
What Kind Of Tortillas Should I Use For The Tortilla Strips?
You should use corn tortillas for the tortilla strips, as they provide the best texture and flavor. You can either fry them at home or buy pre-made tortilla strips.
Can I Make Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients (except the tortillas) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How Can I Make Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup Vegetarian?
To make the soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein such as tofu, tempeh, or extra beans. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I Freeze Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What Toppings Can I Add To Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, and additional crispy tortilla strips.
What Side Dishes Go Well With Lazy Dog Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Side dishes that pair well with this soup include a simple side salad, cornbread, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a heartier meal.