One of the best ways to warm up on a cold day is a comforting bowl of chicken tortilla soup. This flavorful and satisfying dish is a staple in many households for its ability to infuse your senses with delightful aromas and flavors. Today, we’ll be sharing a simple yet flavor-packed recipe inspired by the renowned chef, Rachael Ray. Her Chicken Tortilla Soup is a dish that combines tender chicken, savory broth, veggies, and a hint of spice – all topped with crispy tortilla strips and creamy avocado. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this cozy and delicious soup at home.
**Rachael Ray Chicken Tortilla Soup**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– Juice of 1 lime
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– 2 corn tortillas, sliced into strips
– Shredded cheese, sliced avocado, and sour cream (for topping)
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the cumin and chili powder, then add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breasts to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Add in the black beans, corn, and lime juice. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
6. While the soup is simmering, prepare the tortilla strips. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tortilla strips and cook until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve the Chicken Tortilla Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy your homemade Rachael Ray-inspired Chicken Tortilla Soup with loved ones or savor it as a delicious solo treat. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy nights in, gatherings with friends, or as a comforting meal during busy weekdays. The delightful blend of flavors and textures in this dish will surely elevate your dining experience and warm your soul. So, whip up a batch of this scrumptious soup and let the aromas of Mexican-inspired goodness fill your kitchen!
