Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? My Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is the answer! This recipe is simple and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a delicious bowl of soup ready in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips on customizations and storage. Let’s get started and make a meal that warms your belly and delights your taste buds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe utilizes the Instant Pot, making it quick and easy to prepare a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices, tomatoes, and chilies creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and exciting.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, as well as vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is a wholesome option for any meal.
- Customizable Toppings: With options like avocado, crispy tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro, you can customize each bowl to your liking for a unique experience every time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Ingredients for Serving
– Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
– Crispy tortilla strips
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Lime wedges
Substitution Suggestions
If you don’t have chicken breasts, use thighs. They stay juicy and tender.
You can swap black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas. Both work well.
If you want a milder soup, leave out the chili powder. Use bell peppers instead.
For a fresh twist, try adding lime juice or fresh herbs like parsley.
If you want to skip the broth, water works too. Just add more spices for flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Instant Pot
First, get your Instant Pot ready. Press the Sauté button. When it shows “Hot,” add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Let it heat for a moment. This step is key to building flavor.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, add 1 medium diced onion and 1 finely diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir occasionally until they soften. Then, add 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for another minute. You want the garlic to smell great and turn golden.
Combining Chicken and Spices
Now, it’s time for the chicken. Place 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the pot. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and some salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken and veggies in those spices.
Pressure Cooking the Soup
Pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup of corn, and 4 cups of chicken broth. Mix everything together. Now, secure the lid. Set the steam release valve to sealing. Choose the Manual or Pressure Cook setting, and set the timer for 10 minutes.
Natural Release and Shredding the Chicken
When the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, carefully turn the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Remove the lid. Take the chicken out and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and stir well.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Top each bowl with crispy tortilla strips, a handful of fresh cilantro, and slices of avocado. Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top to brighten the flavors. Enjoy your spicy chicken tortilla soup!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement
To boost flavor, always start with fresh ingredients. Fresh onions, peppers, and garlic make a big difference. Sauté them well to release their natural sweetness. Add spices like cumin and smoked paprika early. This helps their flavors bloom. Don’t forget to use good-quality chicken broth. It adds depth and richness. Garnish your soup with fresh cilantro and lime. This adds brightness and freshness to every bowl.
How to Adjust Spice Levels
If you want a milder soup, use less chili powder. You can leave out the diced tomatoes with green chilies too. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or more chili powder. Taste as you go. This way, you can find the perfect spice level for your family. Remember, you can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it away!
Making the Soup Creamier
To make your soup creamy, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk. Stir it in just before serving. You can also blend some of the soup with an immersion blender. This will give it a smooth texture. Another option is to top it with sour cream or Greek yogurt. These toppings add creaminess and a nice tang.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Shredded Chicken: For the best texture, let the chicken cool for a few minutes before shredding. This makes it easier to handle and prevents it from becoming too stringy.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños if you prefer a spicier soup. You can also offer sliced jalapeños as a garnish for guests to add to their bowls.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh herbs and high-quality broth can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Consider homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
- Make-Ahead Tips: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to add the crispy tortilla strips fresh when serving.
Variations
Vegetarian Option for Tortilla Soup
If you want a meat-free soup, swap the chicken for beans. Use extra black beans or add pinto beans. You can also use tofu for protein and texture. Just be sure to press and cube the tofu before adding. This will give you a hearty soup that is still packed with flavor.
Adding Extra Vegetables
You can boost the nutrition by adding more veggies. Consider carrots, zucchini, or spinach. Dice them small so they cook well in the Instant Pot. Add them when you combine the broth and beans. This way, they will cook evenly and soak up all the spices.
Spicier Variations with Additional Chilies
Want more heat? Add fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. Dice them finely and sauté them with the onions. You can also include a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like. Just keep tasting as you go to find the right level of spice for you.
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftover Soup
To keep your chicken tortilla soup fresh, let it cool first. Once cool, use an airtight container to store the soup. This helps prevent spills and keeps it tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it longer, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, heat it on the stove or in the microwave. If using the stove, pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir often until hot. For the microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for one to two minutes. Stir, then check the temperature. Make sure it is hot throughout before serving.
Freezing the Soup
To freeze your chicken tortilla soup, use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. If using bags, lay them flat in the freezer for easy storage. The soup will be good for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This way, you can enjoy a warm bowl of soup anytime!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time. This method keeps the chicken moist and tender. When using frozen chicken, ensure to place it in the pot without thawing.
How can I make this soup less spicy?
To reduce the spice, use mild diced tomatoes without green chilies. You can also cut back on chili powder and smoked paprika. Adding more corn or a dollop of sour cream helps balance the heat too.
What can I serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup?
This soup pairs well with various sides. Here are some ideas:
– Warm tortilla chips
– Mexican rice
– Fresh salad
– Creamy guacamole
– Sliced jalapeños for those who want extra spice
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead?
Yes, you can adapt this for a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Sauté the veggies and spices in a pan first for better flavor. Add everything else to the slow cooker, and enjoy the slow-cooked goodness!
In this article, we explored making Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup. We covered key ingredients and optional toppings for a great flavor. We shared easy steps to prepare the soup and tips to enhance its taste. You can even find variations to suit your needs, plus storage tips for leftovers. Keep these ideas in mind for your next meal. Enjoy a warm bowl and make it your own. Your kitchen will love this recipe as much as you d
