How to Make Chick-fil-A’s Famous Chicken Tortilla Soup at Home

ThereS something irresistibly comforting about Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup-the rich, savory broth, tender shredded chicken, and the perfect crunch of crispy tortilla strips all come together in a bowl of flavor that warms both heart and soul.But what if you could capture that magic right in your own kitchen? Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or looking to impress friends with a homemade twist on a fast-food favorite, making Chick-fil-A’s famous Chicken Tortilla Soup at home is easier than you think. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step thru the secrets and simple ingredients that bring this beloved soup to life, so you can enjoy every delicious spoonful without ever leaving your house.

How to Make Chick-fil-A’s Famous Chicken Tortilla Soup at Home invites you to embark on a culinary journey that captures the soul of a beloved classic. This vibrant soup,known for its rich and velvety broth infused with bold spices and tender chicken,offers a heartwarming blend of Southern comfort and Tex-Mex zest. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual family dinner, mastering this recipe transforms your kitchen into a sanctuary of flavor and tradition.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Yield

Serves 6 generous bowls

Difficulty Level

Medium – Perfect for home cooks aiming to impress with an authentic restaurant-style dish

Ingredients

• 2 boneless,skinless chicken breasts,cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion,finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic,minced
• 1 large jalapeño pepper,seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1 red bell pepper,diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (14 oz) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes,undrained
• 1 (14 oz) can black beans,rinsed and drained
• 1 cup whole kernel corn,frozen or fresh
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

Crafting crispy Tortilla Strips and Garnishes

• 4-6 corn tortillas,cut into thin strips
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Fresh cilantro leaves,chopped
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
• Thinly sliced green onions
• Avocado slices or guacamole
• Sour cream or Mexican crema

Instructions

1. Begin by heating olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, garlic, and jalapeño, sautéing until translucent and aromatic, about 4 minutes.
2. Add the chicken pieces, cooking until they are golden on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sprinkle in cumin,smoked paprika,chili powder,and oregano. Stir to evenly coat the chicken and vegetables, unlocking the spices’ deep aromas.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and fire-roasted tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Bring the soup to a lively simmer, then cover and let cook for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and chicken to tenderize.
5. While the broth simmers, prepare your tortilla strips: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tortilla strips in batches until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels,seasoning lightly with salt.
6. After simmering, add the black beans and corn to the pot. Cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to brighten the soup.
7. Adjust thickness by adding more broth if necessary, and remove from heat.
8. Serve hot, ladled generously into bowls. Top each serving with crispy tortilla strips, a sprinkle of cheese, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh.

Tips and Tricks for Customizing Your Chicken Tortilla Soup

• For a smoky depth,consider roasting the tomatoes and peppers yourself before blending them into the broth.
• Substitute chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat if you prefer.
• For a vegetarian twist,replace chicken broth with vegetable stock and omit the chicken,adding extra beans and corn.
• Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of jalapeño or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance and reheat gently.

Serving suggestions

This soup shines when paired with a crisp green salad and a warm, buttery cornbread.For an extra festive touch, serve with a wedge of lime on the side and a handful of crushed tortilla chips for additional crunch. Don’t forget a cold beverage like a frosty iced tea or a Mexican lager to round out the meal perfectly.

Related Reads

For more hearty soup recipes that brighten up your table, check out our Best Homemade Soups collection.

To explore the health benefits of key spices used in this recipe, visit Healthline’s complete guide.

Q&A

Q&A: How to Make Chick-fil-A’s Famous Chicken Tortilla Soup at Home

Q1: What makes Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup so special?
A1: It’s the perfect harmony of tender shredded chicken, savory broth, colorful veggies, and that signature blend of spices that gives it a warm, comforting kick.Plus, the crispy tortilla strips add an irresistible crunch, making each spoonful a delightful contrast of textures.

Q2: Can I recreate the rich broth flavor without using pre-made soup bases?
A2: Absolutely! The secret lies in simmering chicken broth with a mix of sautéed onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a hint of smoky chipotle or smoked paprika. Adding fresh lime juice at the end brightens the flavors,giving your broth that authentic Chick-fil-A zest.

Q3: What type of chicken works best for this soup?
A3: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal since they shred easily and soak up all the delicious flavors. cooking the chicken directly in the broth not only cooks it perfectly but infuses the soup with rich chicken essence.

Q4: Is there a way to make this soup healthier without losing flavor?
A4: Definitely! Use low-sodium chicken broth, limit added salt, and load up on fresh vegetables like corn, black beans, and bell peppers. Opt for baking your tortilla strips instead of frying to keep that crunch with less oil.Q5: How do I get the crispy tortilla strips just like Chick-fil-A?
A5: Cut corn tortillas into thin strips, toss them lightly in oil and a pinch of salt, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. For an extra touch,sprinkle with chili powder or cumin before baking.

Q6: What toppings can I add to elevate my homemade chicken Tortilla Soup?
A6: Think beyond the basics! Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, creamy avocado slices, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a squeeze of fresh lime perfectly complement the flavors and add richness or brightness as you like.

Q7: How long does it take to make this soup from start to finish?
A7: From chopping your veggies to simmering the broth and shredding the chicken, expect about 45 minutes to an hour. It’s a bit of kitchen TLC but well worth it for that restaurant-quality taste.Q8: can this recipe be made in a slow cooker or Instant pot?
A8: Yes! Using a slow cooker lets the flavors meld beautifully over 4-6 hours on low. The Instant Pot speeds up cooking – just sauté your ingredients right in the pot, pressure cook for about 15 minutes, then shred the chicken before serving.

Q9: Any tips for making this soup kid-pleasant?
A9: Keep the spice level mild by using less chili powder and skipping chipotle if needed.Offer toppings on the side so everyone can customize their bowl, and consider adding a little shredded cheese to help mellow the flavors.Q10: Why make Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup at home instead of ordering in?
A10: Making it yourself means fresh ingredients, customization to your taste, and no waiting in line. Plus, it’s a fun cooking adventure that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and leaves you with leftovers for cozy nights ahead!

In Retrospect

Now that you’ve uncovered the secret behind Chick-fil-A’s Famous Chicken Tortilla soup, your kitchen is officially upgraded to soup headquarters. With tender chicken,savory broth,and that perfect crunch of tortilla strips,you can savor this comforting classic any day of the week-no drive-thru required. So stir,simmer,and spice to your heart’s content,and enjoy a bowlful of cozy goodness that’s as satisfying as it is indeed simple. Happy cooking, and even happier slurping!