Name: Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup frozen corn; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips or crushed chips for topping; Optional toppings: diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro

If you’re craving bold, comforting flavor in a bowl, this Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top recipe delivers every time. Packed with juicy chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, hearty black beans, and the perfect blend of spices, this recipe comes together quickly in one pot.

Whether you call it tortilla chili or fire roasted chicken tortilla soup, it’s a weeknight win that tastes like it simmered all day.

In just under an hour, you’ll have a hearty, soul-warming soup ready to serve with crunchy tortilla strips and creamy avocado. Let’s dive into what makes this soup a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top

This easy stovetop version of chicken tortilla soup is cozy, quick, and full of bold flavor. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to bookmark for any weeknight or rainy day.

One pot means fewer dishes and fast cleanup
Rich flavors come from pantry staples and fresh ingredients
Rotisserie chicken or leftovers keep things simple
Toppings can be customized to suit your mood or pantry
Perfect for meal prep since it stores and reheats beautifully

There’s nothing complicated here, just real ingredients and a reliable cooking method that works every time. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone to the table with a smile.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top Ingredients

This stovetop chicken tortilla soup recipe is built on colorful, fresh, and easy-to-find ingredients. Think of it as a one-pot wonder that balances smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors in every spoonful.

Olive oil, 2 tablespoons
For sautéing your base vegetables and building flavor
Yellow onion, 1 small, diced
Adds sweetness and depth to the soup
Garlic, 3 cloves, minced
Boosts the savory notes right from the start
Ground cumin, 1 teaspoon
Warm, earthy flavor that defines tortilla soup
Chili powder, 1 teaspoon
Adds a hint of smokiness and mild heat
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes, 1 can (14 ounces)
Brings richness and a roasted depth
Diced green chilies, 1 can (4 ounces)
Offers a slight kick without overpowering
Chicken broth, 4 cups
Acts as the flavorful base of the soup
Cooked chicken, 2 cups, shredded
Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly
Black beans, 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
Adds protein, fiber, and hearty texture
Frozen corn, 1 cup
Sweetness and bright color in every bite
Fresh lime juice, from 1 lime
Balances the richness with citrusy brightness
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Final seasoning to bring it all together
Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
Add crunch and a signature finish
Optional toppings
Diced avocado, shredded cheddar, sour cream, fresh cilantro

This simple mix of ingredients turns into a bold, craveable soup in less than an hour. Next, let’s walk through how to make it step by step.

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top

Making this tortilla chili on the stovetop is simple, satisfying, and only takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. Follow these steps for bold, comforting flavor in every bowl.

1. Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add the base ingredients
Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, diced green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Stir in the chicken and beans
Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and frozen corn. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes so the flavors can develop.

4. Finish with lime and seasoning
Squeeze in fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Serve with toppings
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crunchy tortilla strips, avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

For a creamy twist on this classic, check out this cheesy Southwestern chicken tortilla soup that’s also ready in 30 minutes.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top serving in bowl

The beauty of this soup is how well it pairs with a range of textures and flavors. Whether you keep it classic or go bold with your toppings, each bowl can be personalized to match your mood or what’s in your kitchen.

Top it your way
Finish each bowl with crispy tortilla strips, sliced avocado, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro. For a spicy kick, a few pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce never hurt.

Serve with sides
A side of warm cornbread or a handful of tortilla chips makes this meal complete. These taco soup recipes share the same cozy vibe and are great complements if you’re planning a casual dinner spread.

Make it a full meal
Round it out with a fresh side salad dressed in lime vinaigrette or a scoop of seasoned rice for heartier appetites. If you love layered textures and bold flavors, this soup is a match made for creative serving.

Next, we’ll explore easy ways to make this dish your own with fun twists and simple ingredient swaps.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Variations and Customizations

This soup is flexible, and that’s part of what makes it such a kitchen favorite. Whether you’re trying to use up ingredients or cooking around dietary needs, here are a few easy ways to switch things up:

Swap the protein
Use ground turkey, leftover grilled steak, or even cooked shrimp for a fresh take.

Make it vegetarian
Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra beans, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture.

Add heat
Stir in chipotle peppers in adobo or diced jalapeños to kick things up a notch.

Go creamy
Add a splash of heavy cream or stir in cream cheese at the end for a richer broth.

Low-carb option
Leave out the corn and beans, then top with sliced avocado, shredded cheese, and sour cream.

This soup plays well with what you have on hand and works beautifully with other simple soups like this creamy 30-minute chicken tortilla soup. Keep reading for the best ways to store and reheat leftovers.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top Storage and Reheating

This soup makes fantastic leftovers and reheats beautifully, making it a smart choice for meal prep or batch cooking.

How to store it
Once cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep tortilla strips and fresh toppings separate to maintain texture.

How to reheat it
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring in between. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Freezing tips
You can freeze the soup (without toppings) in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

This soup is just as comforting the next day and makes a perfect grab-and-go lunch. If you’re a fan of prep-friendly meals like this, try pairing it with the chicken tortilla crockpot version for a hands-off dinner night.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top Pro Tips

Want restaurant-style results in your own kitchen? These pro tips make sure your stovetop tortilla soup is full of flavor and texture every single time.

Sauté the spices
Always bloom your chili powder and cumin with the onions and garlic. This step deepens their flavor instead of leaving them tasting raw.

Don’t skip the lime
That splash of citrus at the end brightens the soup and balances the spice. It makes a big difference in taste.

Use freshly shredded cheese
If you’re adding cheese on top, shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that stop it from melting smoothly.

Layer the toppings
Let everyone build their bowl their way. Set out tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce for the ultimate DIY soup bar.

For a fun alternative with a similar kick, check out this taco soup with ranch packet that’s creamy, bold, and ready in 30 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top

This soup is simple, but a few easy missteps can dull the flavor or ruin the texture. Here’s what to avoid:

Using bland broth
Since broth is your base, make sure it’s flavorful. If using store-bought, choose low-sodium and season it yourself.

Adding toppings too early
Tortilla strips and cheese should be added just before serving. Adding them too soon makes them soggy.

Overcooking the chicken
If you’re using raw chicken, simmer it gently. If using precooked or rotisserie chicken, stir it in near the end to avoid drying it out.

Skipping the seasoning check
Always taste your soup before serving. A pinch of salt or squeeze of lime can completely transform the flavor.

Crowding the pot
Give your ingredients room to breathe. A heavy boil will break things down too much, so keep the soup at a gentle simmer.

This recipe is forgiving, but these tips help you get the most flavor and best texture every time.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top: Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of chicken tortilla soup simmering on the stove. It’s easy to make, full of bold flavor, and always hits the spot. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for leftovers, this recipe checks all the boxes.

If you try this stovetop chicken tortilla soup, don’t forget to leave a comment or rate the recipe. I’d love to hear how you made it your own. And if you’re craving more soul-warming comfort food, check out my soups collection for your next bowl of cozy.

FAQs About Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top

What’s the difference between tortilla soup and chili?

Tortilla soup is typically thinner than chili and features a tomato-based broth infused with chicken and spices. Chili is thicker, often made with ground meat and beans, and has a deeper, richer flavor profile. Tortilla soup focuses on bold, bright toppings and usually includes crispy tortilla strips.

Can I use rotisserie chicken in tortilla soup?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred about 2 cups and add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking. It saves time and still delivers that savory depth you want in every bite.

How do I thicken tortilla soup without cream?

You can simmer the soup a bit longer uncovered to reduce the broth. Alternatively, blend a small portion of the beans and stir it back into the soup. This adds body without changing the flavor or using dairy.

What toppings go best on chicken tortilla soup?

The best toppings include crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. For a spicier version, add jalapeños or a squeeze of hot sauce right before serving.

Can I freeze leftover chicken tortilla soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove and add fresh toppings after warming.