This Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup brings the beloved fast-food classic to your kitchen, offering rich, comforting flavors with a homemade touch. Embrace the warmth of this hearty soup, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day.
The Legacy of Flavor
Chick-fil-A, renowned for its crispy chicken and impeccable customer service, has more than just sandwiches up its sleeve. The Chicken Tortilla Soup has become a staple for many fans, often coveted during the colder months. It’s a dish that combines the comforting essence of chicken soup with a Tex-Mex twist, creating a unique fusion that’s hard to resist. The appeal lies in its harmonious blend of creamy textures and bold flavors, making it a favorite for those seeking both familiarity and excitement in a single bowl.
Ingredients That Sing
What sets this soup apart is its symphony of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the overall flavor profile. The combination of shredded chicken, beans, and a medley of spices creates a delightful dance on the palate. The inclusion of corn and peppers adds a sweet and smoky layer, while the tortilla strips provide the perfect crunchy contrast. Toasting the spices before adding them to the pot is like unlocking the aroma vault—don’t skip this step, as it transforms the soup from simple to sensational.
Crafting the Perfect Bowl
Preparing this dish is an exercise in patience and passion. The key is in the slow simmer, allowing each component to meld and enhance the others. It’s akin to a symphony, where every note must resonate in harmony. As the soup simmers, it thickens, drawing out the richness of the chicken and the depth of the spices. This slow dance of flavors is what makes the dish truly remarkable. The result is a hearty, flavorful soup that warms the soul and delights the senses, a perfect replication of the original that you can tweak to your heart’s desire.
Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
Soup Base
Spice Mix
Garnishes
Instructions
Preparation and Sautéing
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Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.Freshly minced garlic will give a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced options. -
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning, which can turn it bitter.
Cooking the Chicken
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Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through.Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to avoid any health risks.
Building the Soup Base
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Add the Liquids
Pour in chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup. Stir well to combine.Use a whisk to break up any lumps from the cream of chicken soup for a smoother texture. -
Incorporate the Flavor
Add drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the pot. Stir everything together.Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smoky depth of flavor.
Simmering and Final Touches
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Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.Stir occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot. -
Season to Taste
Add salt, pepper, and cumin to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary.A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick if you prefer a spicier soup.
Serving Suggestions
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Garnish and Serve
Serve the soup hot topped with crispy tortilla strips and shredded cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream if desired.Crushed avocado or fresh cilantro can also be delightful toppings for an added burst of freshness.
Note
For a richer flavor, roast your own chicken breasts with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper before shredding. If short on time, a rotisserie chicken works as a convenient alternative. To enhance the depth of the soup, toast the cumin and chili powder in a dry pan until fragrant before adding them to the mix. This step is key to unlocking the spices' full potential. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for an added smoky dimension that mimics the restaurant's unique flavor profile. If fire-roasted isn't available, regular diced tomatoes will suffice, but consider adding a dash of smoked paprika. For a creamy consistency, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring to a countertop blender before returning it to the pot. This step thickens the broth without the need for additional cream. Tortilla strips are best when freshly crisped. Cut corn tortillas into thin strips, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden and crunchy. If pressed for time, store-bought tortilla chips or strips can be used as a substitute. Customize heat levels by adjusting the amount of jalapeños or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, remove seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or omit them entirely. A squeeze of lime just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing. Don't skip it—it's the secret to balancing the soup's richness. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness and creaminess. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the following day. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the chicken. For a dairy-free option, ensure all toppings and garnishes are suitable substitutes, such as using a dairy-free sour cream or omitting altogether.