Cheesy Tortilla Soup Recipe

Tortilla soup is one of those comfort foods that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Imagine a bowl of broth filled with tender chicken, a tangy kick of lime, and the crunch of crispy tortilla strips, all mingling in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that’s cozy, flavorful, and versatile enough to adapt to any taste preference.

This Cheesy Tortilla Soup recipe takes the classic dish to the next level by adding a rich, creamy cheese element. The result is a comforting, indulgent bowl of goodness that’s perfect for cozy nights, busy weeknights, or whenever you’re craving something hearty but still full of flavor.

Whether you’re new to tortilla soup or a seasoned fan, this cheesy twist will make you fall in love all over again. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a quick glance at what you’ll need for this cheesy, flavor-packed soup:

Chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless) – The main protein for this soup. Chicken adds flavor, texture, and heartiness.
Tortillas (corn or flour) – To be cut into strips and fried for that crispy crunch that’s iconic in tortilla soup.
Cheddar cheese (shredded) – For that cheesy, melty goodness.
Monterey Jack cheese (shredded) – Adds a creamy texture and balance to the sharper cheddar.
Onion (diced) – A base flavor that adds sweetness and depth.
Garlic (minced) – A classic aromatic that infuses the soup with a savory undertone.
Canned diced tomatoes (fire-roasted, optional) – For a bit of smokiness and added depth of flavor.
Chicken broth – The liquid base that holds everything together. You can use low-sodium or homemade broth for a cleaner taste.
Cilantro (chopped) – For a burst of freshness.
Lime (juiced) – Adds a tangy kick that brightens up the rich flavors of the soup.
Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper – The perfect combination of spices to add warmth, smokiness, and a hint of heat.
Olive oil – For sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices.
Salt and pepper – To taste, rounding out all the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare The Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a bit of cumin. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pot, set aside, and shred using two forks once slightly cooled.
Make The Tortilla Strips

While the chicken cooks, slice the tortillas into thin strips. In a separate pan, heat a little olive oil and fry the strips until golden and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot you used for the chicken, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Spices And Tomatoes

Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot, and stir for about 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes (if using) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Combine Everything

Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, along with half of the crispy tortilla strips. Stir everything together and simmer for another 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Add The Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish And Serve

Serve the soup in bowls and top with the remaining crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish. Optional: add a dollop of sour cream or some sliced avocado for extra richness.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a deeper dive into some of the standout ingredients in this recipe:

Tortillas – While tortillas are typically used as a base or garnish for tortilla soup, here they play a double role. Fried into crispy strips, they offer a satisfying crunch against the creamy broth. Corn tortillas tend to be a traditional choice, giving that earthy, slightly sweet flavor, but flour tortillas are also great for a softer, chewy texture.
Cheeses (Cheddar & Monterey Jack) – The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack is the secret to a perfectly cheesy, yet balanced soup. Cheddar provides that bold, tangy flavor, while Monterey Jack brings creaminess and a more mellow taste.
Chicken Broth – Broth is crucial in setting the flavor base of your soup. Using homemade or quality low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the sodium levels and adds richness to the soup. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even add a bit of roasted garlic or herbs to the broth while simmering it.
Spices – The mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper gives this soup a warm, slightly smoky heat that’s characteristic of classic tortilla soup. Adjust the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder or spicier version.

Expert Tips

Shred the Chicken Easily: To save time, you can use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. Just shred it and add it directly to the soup for a quicker version of this dish.
Crispy Tortilla Strips: The key to perfect crispy tortilla strips is to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them in small batches, allowing each strip to get golden brown and crunchy. Also, don’t skip the paper towel step-it helps remove excess oil so your strips stay crispy longer.
Cheese Melting Trick: Stir in the cheese at low heat to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping. If you find the cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, add a little more broth to loosen it up.
Broth Swap: For a richer flavor, use stock instead of broth. Beef or vegetable stock can add depth and complexity, giving a unique twist to the classic recipe.

Recipe Variations

While this cheesy tortilla soup is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to make it your own:

Spicy Kick: Add a sliced jalapeño or two when sautéing the onions and garlic for a fresh burst of heat.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and load the soup with extra veggies-think bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
Creamy Dream: If you’re looking for an even creamier version, blend some of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese. This will create a smooth, velvety base.
Protein Swap: Swap the chicken for ground beef, turkey, or even shrimp for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Toppings Galore: Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Crumbled tortilla chips, diced avocado, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or a spoonful of pico de gallo can add texture and brightness.

Final Words

Cheesy Tortilla Soup is the ultimate comfort food, with its warm, cheesy broth and satisfying texture from the crispy tortillas. This recipe is rich, flavorful, and satisfying, perfect for any day of the week. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability-you can easily adjust it to fit your preferences, dietary needs, and spice levels.

Whether you make it on a chilly night or as a crowd-pleasing dish for a get-together, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. And with all the variations you can try, it’s a recipe that will never get boring.

Cheesy Tortilla Soup Recipe