Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup a zesty and comforting tortilla soup made with salsa verde, shredded chicken, and a blend of spices, topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh avocado. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in, bringing bold flavors with every spoonful.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup because it’s packed with bright, fresh flavors and comes together in just 30 minutes. The salsa verde adds a tangy depth, while the shredded chicken and white beans make it hearty and satisfying. The crispy tortilla strips and creamy avocado on top add the perfect contrast in texture. Whether I’m making a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is always a hit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups salsa verde
1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the toppings:
Crispy tortilla strips
Sliced avocado
Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Additional lime wedges
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and salsa verde, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the white beans, shredded chicken, and corn, then simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and mix in chopped cilantro.
Serve hot, topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the shredded chicken for extra beans or diced zucchini for a meatless version.
Spicier Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a bit more heat.
Creamier Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
Different Protein: Try using shredded turkey or pork instead of chicken.
Crunchy Topping Twist: Instead of tortilla strips, use crushed tortilla chips for an easier crunch.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through. If freezing, I leave out the toppings and store the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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FAQs
How can I make this soup thicker?
I mash some of the beans or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.
Can I use store-bought tortilla chips instead of making strips?
Yes! Store-bought tortilla chips work great and save time.
What’s the best salsa verde to use?
I prefer a good-quality store-bought salsa verde or homemade if I have the time. Look for one with simple, fresh ingredients.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! I combine all the ingredients (except lime juice and toppings) and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Then, I stir in the lime juice before serving.
What are good side dishes to serve with this soup?
I love serving it with a side of cornbread, a simple green salad, or cheese quesadillas.
Conclusion
This Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup is a quick and delicious way to enjoy bold flavors with minimal effort. It’s warm, hearty, and easy to customize with different toppings and variations. Whether for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this soup never disappoints.
📖 Recipe:
PrintFlavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup is a zesty and comforting dish made with shredded chicken, salsa verde, and white beans, topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh avocado. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty soup is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups salsa verde
1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the toppings:
Crispy tortilla strips
Sliced avocado
Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Additional lime wedges
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Spices: Stir in garlic, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in chicken broth and salsa verde, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Main Ingredients: Stir in white beans, shredded chicken, and corn. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Season and Finish: Add lime juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped cilantro.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for extra beans or diced zucchini.
Add heat: Stir in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
Creamier texture: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
Alternative proteins: Try shredded turkey or pork instead of chicken.
Topping variations: Use crushed tortilla chips instead of strips for an easy crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal