Name: Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 6 cups chicken stock; 1 (15-ounce) can fire roasted tomatoes; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed; Avocado slices (for topping); Chopped cilantro (for topping); Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping); Crumbled tortilla chips (for topping); Sliced jalapeños (for topping); Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings all the comforting flavors of traditional tortilla soup—spiced broth, tender chicken, and toppings galore—without heavy cream or processed ingredients. It’s high in protein, customizable, and satisfying without being too rich. Whether you're trying to eat cleaner or simply crave a hearty soup, this one hits the spot. Plus, it’s easy to make in under an hour, using just one pot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
yellow onion
green bell pepper
garlic cloves
ground cumin
chili powder
kosher salt
chicken stock
fire roasted tomatoes
chicken breasts
pinto beans
avocado slices
chopped cilantro
shredded cheddar cheese
crumbled tortilla chips
sliced jalapeños
sour cream or Greek yogurt

Directions

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until onion is translucent and pepper is tender, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, and kosher salt. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Add chicken stock, fire roasted tomatoes, and chicken breasts to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then cook for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Remove the chicken and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add pinto beans, and stir to combine. Let simmer on low for another 5 minutes to blend flavors and slightly thicken.
Serve hot with your choice of toppings: avocado slices, chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy twist: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or extra jalapeños for more heat.
Vegan version: Swap chicken for black beans or tofu and use vegetable broth.
Add grains: Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for extra bulk.
Different beans: Use black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto.
Slow cooker version: Add all ingredients (except toppings) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
This soup also freezes well for up to 2 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just add it during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check labels on chicken stock and toppings.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking and safety.

What can I substitute for fire roasted tomatoes?

Regular diced tomatoes work, though you’ll miss a bit of the smoky flavor. You can add a dash of smoked paprika for a similar effect.

How can I thicken the soup?

Simmer longer uncovered or mash some of the beans in the soup to naturally thicken it.

Are there dairy-free topping options?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese and sour cream. Avocado and cilantro are great non-dairy toppings.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment while the chicken is still warm.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes. Sauté the vegetables and spices using the sauté function, then add remaining ingredients and pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines bold flavors with wholesome ingredients. It's easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for cozy meals or healthy lunches throughout the week. With every bowl, you get nourishing comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup