If you’re someone who enjoys comforting, hearty meals with a burst of flavor, this Chick-fil-A soup recipe is going to become your go-to dish. Imagine a creamy, deliciously rich soup filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and the signature taste that you’ve come to know and love from Chick-fil-A. This isn’t just any soup-this recipe mimics the beloved flavors of the Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup, which is a seasonal favorite for many.

Whether you’re looking for a meal to serve on a chilly evening or craving something that offers both warmth and depth of flavor, this soup is sure to satisfy. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and brings a taste of that iconic fast food chain right into your kitchen. Get ready to whip up something fantastic in no time!

Chick-fil-A Soup Recipe

This recipe brings the classic flavors of Chick-fil-A’s famous Chicken Tortilla Soup right into your home. The base of the soup is made with tender shredded chicken, creamy broth, a mix of vegetables, and a kick of spice that’s perfectly balanced. The magic really happens when you add crispy tortilla strips and cheese as toppings.

You’ll find that the soup not only mirrors the restaurant version in taste but is also super customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you like it spicier, creamier, or with extra veggies, this soup can adapt to your personal taste!

Ingredients Needed

Before you start cooking, here’s a rundown of all the ingredients you’ll need to make this Chick-fil-A-inspired soup. Keep in mind that some of these ingredients may already be in your kitchen, so check before heading out to the store.

For The Soup

  • Chicken breast or rotisserie chicken – This is your primary protein and adds that juicy, shredded chicken texture that defines the soup.
  • Vegetable broth – The base of the soup. It’s the foundation for the creamy texture that makes it so rich.
  • Heavy cream – Adds the luscious creaminess that gives the soup that indulgent, velvety feel.
  • Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) – These bring a slight tanginess that balances the richness of the cream.
  • Green chilies – For a subtle heat and flavor boost. Don’t worry-it won’t overpower the soup!
  • Onion and garlic – These aromatics infuse the soup with a savory depth and flavor.
  • Sweet corn – This adds a touch of sweetness and texture, making every spoonful feel satisfying.
  • Black beans – They offer a mild earthiness and additional protein.
  • Taco seasoning or chili powder – A key ingredient for that signature “spicy but not too spicy” taste.
  • Cilantro – For garnish, it adds a fresh, herbaceous note that lifts the entire dish.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese – For that cheesy, melty topping.
  • Tortilla strips – The crispy, crunchy element that makes the soup feel like a real treat.

Optional (for Added Flavor)

  • Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime at the end can brighten up the flavors.
  • Sour cream – A dollop on top gives a cool contrast to the spicy heat.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a deliciously comforting Chick-fil-A-inspired soup in no time.

  1. Prepare The Chicken

    • If using chicken breasts, cook them in a pot with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can either boil or pan-sear them. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken, which will save you some time.
  2. Sauté The Vegetables

    • In a large soup pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add The Liquids

    • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
    • Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and green chilies. Stir to combine.
  4. Season The Soup

    • Stir in the taco seasoning or chili powder. You can adjust the seasoning depending on your spice preference. Taste as you go-if you want more heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  5. Add The Corn And Beans

    • Add the sweet corn and black beans to the pot, and let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Make It Creamy

    • Reduce the heat to low, and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add The Chicken

    • Stir in the shredded chicken, and let the soup heat through for another 5 minutes.
  8. Finish The Soup

    • Taste and adjust the seasoning again, if necessary, adding salt, pepper, or more chili powder to taste.
  9. Serve

    • Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla strips, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. If you like, add a squeeze of lime or a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup has a role to play in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

  • Chicken: The shredded chicken adds both protein and substance to the soup. It’s tender and juicy, absorbing the flavors of the broth.
  • Taco Seasoning: The seasoning mix provides a depth of flavor with a blend of cumin, garlic, onion powder, and chili powder. It’s the backbone of the soup’s “Chick-fil-A” taste.
  • Heavy Cream: This is the key to making the soup creamy and indulgent, giving it that comforting texture that everyone loves.
  • Vegetable Broth: The broth provides a neutral base to let the flavors of the chicken, veggies, and seasonings shine.
  • Tortilla Strips: These crispy little bites bring a satisfying crunch to each spoonful. It’s a simple addition that elevates the soup into something special.

Expert Tips

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you want a shortcut, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. It’s already seasoned, which adds even more depth to the soup.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your soup spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or even some chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a milder version, dial back on the chili powder and opt for a mild salsa instead of the green chilies.
  • Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! If you have time, make it ahead and let it sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors will have more time to develop.
  • Frozen Corn: If you’re not into canned corn, frozen corn works just as well and sometimes even adds a little more sweetness to the soup.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of this soup is how adaptable it is. You can mix things up to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions:

  • Vegan/Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for plant-based protein, like tofu or tempeh, and use a non-dairy cream (coconut milk, for instance). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully plant-based option.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortilla chips or homemade tortilla strips for the topping.
  • Dairy-Free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free version.
  • Spicy Add-ins: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or even a splash of hot sauce or sriracha for an extra kick.

Final Words

This Chick-fil-A-inspired soup is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, flavorful soups with a bit of a kick. The combination of tender chicken, spices, and creamy broth creates a soup that’s both hearty and comforting. And with the optional toppings like cheese, cilantro, and tortilla strips, it feels like a full meal in a bowl.

Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also offers room for plenty of customization. You can make it spicier, creamier, or with more veggies to suit your mood and preferences. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a beloved restaurant-style soup without leaving your house.

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