Chicken Tortilla Soup Weight Watchers Recipe

If you’re looking for a flavorful, comforting, and healthier twist on a classic dish, then Chicken Tortilla Soup might be your new go-to recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser, blending the rich, savory flavors of seasoned chicken, vegetables, and just the right amount of heat. What makes this version even better? It’s tailored for those following Weight Watchers – so you can indulge without derailing your healthy eating goals.

This Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just easy to make, it’s also packed with protein and fiber, and is low in calories and fat, making it the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or meal prep throughout the week. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can adjust it to your tastes and dietary preferences. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this healthy, tasty recipe!

Chicken Tortilla Soup Weight Watchers Recipe

This version of chicken tortilla soup has been adapted to fit Weight Watchers guidelines without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors. Whether you’re following the WW Green, Blue, or Purple plan, this soup provides a filling, satisfying option that will leave you feeling good without the guilt. It’s perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying their food.

The base of the soup is made from lean chicken breast, a hearty combination of veggies, and a flavorful broth. You’ll find the perfect balance of tender chicken, spices, and a bit of tang from lime and tomatoes, topped with crispy tortilla strips (or healthier alternatives). And because it’s zero Points on Weight Watchers for many of the ingredients, you can savor a hearty serving without worrying about your daily points.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need for a delicious, Weight Watchers-friendly Chicken Tortilla Soup:

• Chicken breast (skinless, boneless) – This is your lean protein source. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, but freshly cooked chicken adds a rich flavor.
• Olive oil – Just a small amount for sautéing the veggies. A heart-healthy fat choice that keeps the calories in check.
• Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the base of your soup.
• Garlic cloves – A key flavor enhancer, giving the soup that aromatic, savory profile.
• Green bell pepper – Adds color and crunch to the soup.
• Diced tomatoes – You’ll want these for that perfect tangy base. Opt for no-salt-added for a healthier option.
• Black beans – Adds fiber and texture, making the soup even more filling.
• Corn kernels – Frozen or fresh works fine. They give the soup a slight sweetness and help bulk up the texture.
• Chicken broth – Look for low-sodium chicken broth to keep it healthy. This is the liquid base of the soup.
• Chili powder – A classic spice that gives the soup its warmth and depth of flavor.
• Cumin – Brings a smoky, earthy flavor that complements the chili powder.
• Paprika – Adds a subtle heat and a slight smoky essence.
• Lime juice – Brightens the entire dish and gives it a zesty finish.
• Tortilla strips or whole wheat tortillas – These give the soup its signature crunch. If you want to keep it lighter, consider using baked tortilla strips.
• Fresh cilantro (optional) – Adds a fresh, herby touch to top the soup.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional) – A creamy dollop on top adds richness to balance the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

Making this Chicken Tortilla Soup is straightforward, but the results are undeniably flavorful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare it:

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • If using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt, pepper, and a bit of chili powder.
   • Cook the chicken in a skillet with a touch of olive oil over medium heat until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
   • Once cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks. Set aside.

2. Sauté The Veggies

   • In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.

3. Add The Liquids And Spices

   • Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, corn, and chicken broth.
   • Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors together.

4. Add The Chicken

   • Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.

5. Add The Lime Juice

   • Just before serving, add freshly squeezed lime juice to the soup for that burst of brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Prepare The Tortilla Strips

   • If you’re using tortillas, cut them into strips and bake them at 400°F for about 10 minutes, or until crispy. Alternatively, use store-bought tortilla strips.

7. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key ingredients in this soup and why they make this recipe a nutritional powerhouse:

• Chicken Breast: The lean protein in chicken breast is an essential part of any healthy diet. It’s low in fat, especially when skinless, and provides a solid serving of protein to keep you full longer. Protein helps with muscle repair and growth, and it’s a key macronutrient for maintaining a balanced diet.
• Black Beans: High in fiber and protein, black beans are an excellent choice for adding bulk to your soup without adding too many calories. Fiber helps with digestion and can keep you feeling satisfied, which is a win for Weight Watchers.
• Corn: While corn is often viewed as a starchy vegetable, it’s still a good source of dietary fiber and essential vitamins like B-vitamins and vitamin C. Plus, it brings a subtle sweetness that complements the savory ingredients in the soup.
• Chili Powder and Cumin: These two spices not only make the soup flavorful but also offer various health benefits. Chili powder contains capsaicin, which can boost metabolism and promote fat loss, while cumin is known for its antioxidant properties.

Expert Tips

To make this Chicken Tortilla Soup even better and suit your specific needs, here are some expert tips:

• Customize the heat: If you like a spicier kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
• Make it even leaner: Use chicken breast or swap in shredded turkey for an even leaner protein source. You can also skip the tortilla strips or use baked ones to cut down on calories.
• Use homemade broth: Homemade chicken broth can be a great way to control the sodium content and add even more flavor. If you’re short on time, opt for a low-sodium store-bought variety.
• Increase the veggie content: You can toss in additional vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach to boost the nutrient profile without affecting the flavor.
• Meal prep-friendly: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can even freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to store the tortilla strips separately to keep them crispy.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of Chicken Tortilla Soup lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and opt for tofu, lentils, or extra beans as your protein source. This makes it a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option.
• Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup: For a more intense heat, you can add habaneros or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. These give the soup a smoky, fiery heat.
• Creamy Version: To make the soup creamier, add a bit of light cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or fat-free sour cream during the last few minutes of cooking. It will make the texture velvety without adding too many extra calories.

Final Words

This Weight Watchers Chicken Tortilla Soup is a stellar example of how healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or restrictive. Packed with flavor, nutrients, and the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy, it’s a soup you can enjoy on your weight loss journey or simply as a satisfying, low-calorie meal. Whether you’re in a rush or planning for the week ahead, it’s an easy dish to throw together that can be customized to your taste.