Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is celebrated for her ability to transform classic comfort foods into accessible and delicious meals perfect for any weeknight dinner. Her recipes, like the ever-popular Pioneer Woman Chili, are known for packing incredible flavor without requiring complicated techniques. When her 5-star chicken tortilla soup recipe came to our attention, we knew we had to try it, much like we did with Ree Drummond’s Chicken Soup recipe. The promise of a simple yet deeply satisfying soup was too tempting to resist.
What is Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Bowl of chicken tortilla soup with toppings
The origins of chicken tortilla soup can be traced back to Mexico City, where it has evolved through generations. Authentic versions typically feature fried corn tortilla strips in a rich, tomato-based broth seasoned with a blend of spices, roasted chiles, onions, and garlic. While some traditional recipes incorporate chicharron (fried pork belly) instead of chicken, the core of the soup lies in its flavorful broth and crispy tortillas.
In the United States, chicken tortilla soup often takes on a Tex-Mex or Southwestern flair. This adaptation commonly includes ingredients like black beans and corn, and sometimes simplifies the traditional spice profile for ease of preparation. Regardless of whether you prefer an authentic Mexican style or a Tex-Mex inspired version, chicken tortilla soup is a universally loved dish, offering warmth and comfort in every bowl. Whether it’s chicken or turkey tortilla soup, it’s hard to find a variation that isn’t enjoyable. Let’s explore why the Pioneer Woman’s recipe has garnered such high praise and see if it truly lives up to the hype.
Why Pioneer Woman’s Recipe Stands Out
Ree Drummond’s recipes are renowned for their approachability and family-friendly appeal, and her chicken tortilla soup is no exception. This recipe stands out because it manages to be both incredibly flavorful and remarkably easy to make. It’s a testament to Ree’s skill in creating recipes that are accessible to home cooks of all levels, without compromising on taste. The 5-star rating it has received is a strong indicator of its success, reflecting the positive experiences of countless cooks who have tried and loved this recipe. What makes this particular chicken tortilla soup recipe special is its reliance on common pantry staples, ensuring that you can whip up a batch even on short notice. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and deliciousness, making it a go-to meal for busy families and anyone craving a comforting, flavorful soup.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Tortilla Soup (Recipe)
This recipe is designed to generously serve 8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups hot water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 6 corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a hearty and flavorful chicken tortilla soup, Pioneer Woman style.
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Seasoning chicken breasts with spices
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, combine the cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Drizzle the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and then generously season them on all sides with approximately 1 teaspoon of the prepared spice mixture. Set aside the remaining spice mixture for later use.
Step 2: Cook and Chop
Baked and chopped chicken breasts
Bake the seasoned chicken breasts until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period helps to keep the chicken juicy. Once rested, cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes.
Editor’s Tip: Baking time can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Thinner breasts might cook in just 15-20 minutes, while thicker ones may take up to 30 minutes. Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure accurate doneness. For more detailed guidance, refer to resources on how to bake chicken breasts to achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Sautéing onions, peppers, and garlic
In a large soup pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender and lightly golden, approximately 5 minutes. Season the sautéed vegetables with the remaining spice mixture. For those who prefer a spicier soup, you can add up to 1/4 teaspoon more chili powder at this stage. To explore different chili powder options, you might find this guide on the best chili powders helpful.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Combining chicken and vegetables with broth and tomatoes
Add the cooked, cubed chicken and the can of diced tomatoes (including their juices) to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Then, pour in the chicken broth, hot water, and tomato paste. If you often find yourself with leftover tomato paste, there are many creative ways to use it up. Discover some ideas on how to use leftover tomato paste. Bring the soup mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently.
Step 5: Add Beans and Cornmeal Thickener
Adding beans and cornmeal to soup
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornmeal with 1/2 cup of water until smooth. This cornmeal slurry will act as a thickening agent for the soup. Add this mixture to the simmering pot, along with the rinsed and drained black beans. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt as needed. If you enjoy this soup, you might also like to try chicken taco soup, which shares similar comforting flavors.
Editor’s Note: Salt is a crucial ingredient in this soup, as emphasized by Ree herself. Proper seasoning with salt is essential to enhance and balance the flavors of all the other ingredients. Don’t be afraid to season generously, but always taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
Step 6: Prepare Tortilla Strips
Cutting tortillas into strips
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the corn tortillas into strips that are about 2 to 3 inches long. Just before serving the soup, stir some of these tortilla strips directly into the pot. Reserve the remaining strips to use as a garnish on individual bowls. For a truly homemade touch, you could even try making your own tortillas. Learn how to make corn tortillas at home for an extra level of freshness.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot chicken tortilla soup into bowls. Let everyone customize their own serving with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crispy tortilla chips. If you are a fan of Ree Drummond’s recipes, be sure to also check out her Pioneer Woman’s taco soup recipe for another family-friendly meal idea.
Tasting Notes: What to Expect
This Pioneer Woman chicken tortilla soup is a delightful culinary experience. Expect a vibrant and comforting soup that is bursting with flavor. The combination of spices, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables creates a well-rounded and satisfying dish. The soup is notably easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal, and utilizes ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens, adding to its convenience. The result is a flavorful, family-friendly soup that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. For an extra burst of freshness, a squeeze of lime juice just before serving elevates the soup, adding a bright and zesty finish that perfectly complements the rich flavors.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tortilla Soup
Enhance your chicken tortilla soup experience with these helpful tips.
How to Thicken Tortilla Soup
If you prefer a thicker, more stew-like consistency for your Pioneer Woman chicken tortilla soup, there are a couple of easy methods to achieve this. The simplest approach is to add more cornmeal to the soup. While the recipe already includes 1/4 cup, you can increase this amount to reach your desired thickness. Alternatively, for a richer flavor and thicker texture, you can use masa harina, a finely ground corn flour, to thicken the soup. Another option is to simply allow the soup to simmer for a longer period on the stovetop. This extended simmering time will reduce the liquid content, naturally thickening the soup and intensifying the flavors as they concentrate.
Serving Suggestions: Topping Bar Ideas
As Ree Drummond herself wisely says, “the more toppings on tortilla soup, the merrier!” Creating a topping bar allows everyone to customize their soup to their liking. Think of toppings you would typically enjoy with tacos or chili; these will likely be fantastic on chicken tortilla soup. Consider offering a variety of options such as:
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Tortilla chips or extra tortilla strips
- Diced red onion
- Jalapeño slices (fresh or pickled)
Storing Leftovers
Chicken tortilla soup is excellent for leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. For the best quality when reheating, it’s recommended to omit the tortilla strips from the soup if you plan to have leftovers. Tortilla strips tend to become soggy as they sit in the soup. Instead, store the soup separately and add fresh tortilla strips to the leftover soup after you reheat it, just before serving.
Freezing for Later
Yes, chicken tortilla soup is indeed freezer-friendly, making it a great option for meal prepping. Along with other freezer-friendly soups, it holds up well in the freezer. Again, it’s best to freeze the soup without the tortilla strips. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it thoroughly on the stovetop. Add fresh tortilla strips just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
If you’re a fan of Ree Drummond’s comforting and flavorful recipes, don’t miss out on these other soup recipes inspired by Ree Drummond. They offer a range of delicious options perfect for any soup lover.
