If you’re someone who loves a good soup, then Progresso’s Chicken Tortilla Soup might just be your next favorite comfort food! This easy-to-make, hearty soup is packed with flavor, and it’s perfect for cozy nights, busy weeknights, or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. What’s even better is that it can be customized to your liking, adding a personal twist to every bowl you make.
Chicken tortilla soup is known for its delicious combination of tender chicken, smoky flavors from the broth, and crispy tortilla strips that add that perfect crunch. Whether you’re using it as a base or making it from scratch, the Progresso version offers a great balance of convenience and taste, especially when you’re in need of something quick but still full of flavor.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into how to make a homemade version inspired by Progresso’s famous Chicken Tortilla Soup. We’ll go over all the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, some pro tips to elevate your cooking game, and plenty of variations to keep things interesting. Let’s get started!
Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
This is a fantastic recipe to recreate the classic chicken tortilla soup with the quality and flavor you’d expect from Progresso, but with your personal touch.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients in chicken tortilla soup are simple yet flavorful. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for a hearty, tasty soup:
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Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Breast Or Thighs)
- You’ll want to use tender chicken that shreds well. Boneless, skinless breasts are common, but thighs give a juicier texture.
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Progresso Chicken Broth
- The star of the soup. Progresso’s chicken broth adds depth to the soup and infuses the broth with that rich, savory flavor.
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Canned Fire-Roasted Tomatoes
- These tomatoes add a smoky, slightly charred flavor that blends beautifully with the soup. They also add some sweetness to balance out the other savory elements.
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Onion (Yellow Or White)
- A good, basic onion adds a layer of sweetness and savory flavor. This will also form the aromatic base of your soup.
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Garlic
- Fresh garlic cloves are essential! They add a strong, aromatic punch that pairs perfectly with the broth.
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Chili Powder
- This gives your soup that signature mild spice and warmth that’s essential for a great tortilla soup.
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Ground Cumin
- Cumin adds an earthy, smoky depth to the soup. It’s a key spice that gives the soup that Mexican flavor you crave.
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Lime
- Fresh lime juice brings a burst of zesty freshness that contrasts the savory broth.
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Tortilla Strips
- These are the crispy garnish that make tortilla soup extra special. You can make your own or buy pre-made ones from the store.
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Cilantro
- Fresh cilantro adds a herbal, slightly citrusy note that brightens the flavors.
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Sour Cream Or Greek Yogurt
- This is optional but gives a creamy, cooling contrast to the heat from the spices.
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Avocado (Optional But Recommended)
- Adding creamy, ripe avocado on top of your soup brings richness and smoothness to the dish.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps on how to make your chicken tortilla soup. These instructions are simple and fast, so you can enjoy a delicious, homemade bowl in no time!
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Cook The Chicken
- Start by cooking your chicken. You can either boil it or sauté it. To boil, place chicken breasts or thighs in a pot of water, bring it to a simmer, and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For sautéing, heat some oil in a pan, cook the chicken on both sides until golden, and then shred it.
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Prepare The Broth
- In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the canned fire-roasted tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another minute.
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Add The Broth And Simmer
- Pour in your Progresso chicken broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
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Shred The Chicken
- While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken with two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add it to the soup.
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Add Lime Juice
- Squeeze the juice of one lime into the soup for that fresh, citrusy kick.
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Final Touches
- Taste your soup, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to your liking.
- Serve your soup hot, topping it with tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and slices of creamy avocado. Enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup brings something special to the table, and understanding their role can elevate your cooking!
- Chicken Broth: The backbone of the soup. Progresso’s chicken broth is full of flavor, which adds a deep umami richness to the soup. It’s important to use a good-quality broth, as it’s the base for all the flavors.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: The slight char on these tomatoes is what sets them apart from regular canned tomatoes. They add a smoky, almost grilled flavor that enhances the broth.
- Chili Powder and Cumin: These two spices are what give chicken tortilla soup its signature, aromatic flavor. Chili powder adds warmth without overpowering the palate, while cumin adds a smoky, earthy undertone that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Tortilla Strips: These crispy strips act as both garnish and texture contrast to the smoothness of the soup. Homemade tortilla strips can add a more rustic touch, while store-bought options offer convenience.
Expert Tips
Want to elevate your tortilla soup to the next level? Here are some expert tips:
- Make the Soup Ahead of Time: Like many soups, chicken tortilla soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make a batch, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It saves you cooking time while adding a smoky flavor to the soup.
- Boost the Heat: If you like your soup spicy, add a chopped jalapeño to the onions and garlic as they cook. Or, throw in a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Toppings Galore: Don’t skimp on the toppings! The crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, tangy sour cream, and fresh cilantro are what make this soup truly shine. You could also add shredded cheese for that extra richness.
Recipe Variations
While this recipe is already fantastic, feel free to get creative with some variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use black beans, corn, or even roasted butternut squash for a hearty, plant-based version of the soup.
- Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Add extra heat with diced chilies, jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Mexican Street Corn Style: Throw in some grilled corn or roasted corn for a sweet and smoky twist.
- Creamy Tortilla Soup: For a richer texture, add a cup of heavy cream or a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese towards the end of cooking.
Final Words
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of chicken tortilla soup-especially when it’s homemade and made just the way you like it. Progresso’s version is a great starting point, but by customizing your soup with fresh ingredients and personal tweaks, you can elevate it to something truly special.
With simple ingredients, quick cooking steps, and plenty of room for variation, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and can be easily adjusted to your taste, dietary restrictions, or what’s in your pantry.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The main ingredients in Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup typically include chicken breast, corn, black beans, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices such as cumin and chili powder. It also includes tortilla strips for added texture.
Can I Make Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup At Home?
Yes, you can make a homemade version by combining shredded chicken, broth, vegetables (such as tomatoes, onions, and corn), and seasonings like cumin, garlic, and chili powder. Tortilla strips are added to the soup at the end.
Is Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup Gluten-free?
Progresso’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is not inherently gluten-free, as it contains tortilla strips, which are typically made from wheat. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free tortilla strips or opting for a gluten-free tortilla soup recipe.
How Many Servings Does A Can Of Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup Provide?
A standard 18.5-ounce can of Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup provides about two servings, depending on portion sizes.
What Is The Calorie Count For Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup?
A 1-cup serving of Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup typically contains around 200-250 calories. This may vary slightly based on the specific variety or added ingredients.
Can I Add Extra Ingredients To Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can customize Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup by adding extra ingredients such as avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for more flavor and texture.
How Do I Make The Soup Spicier?
To make Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier, you can add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder. Adjust the level of heat to your preference by adding the spices gradually.
Can I Freeze Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup. However, it’s best to freeze it without the tortilla strips, as they may become soggy upon reheating. You can add fresh tortilla strips after reheating.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup In The Fridge?
Leftover Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
What Are Some Side Dishes That Pair Well With Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Progresso Chicken Tortilla Soup pairs well with sides like a simple green salad, cornbread, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a side of Mexican rice or a quesadilla for a more filling meal.