Are you craving that iconic, creamy, and hearty Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup? Great news—you don’t need to wait in line or leave the house to enjoy it! This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from choosing the freshest ingredients to mastering the step-by-step cooking process. By the time we’re done, you’ll have a delicious homemade version of this crowd-favorite dish to impress your family or guests. Let’s dive right in!
Introduction to Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
What Makes This Soup Unique?
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as a bowl of chicken tortilla soup. The Chick-fil-A version stands out for its thick, creamy base packed with shredded chicken, navy and black beans, and the perfect blend of spices. But let’s not forget the toppings! A generous helping of crispy tortilla strips brings everything together, adding a crunch that’s nothing short of irresistible. What makes this recipe even better? It’s adaptable to various preferences—whether you want to go vegetarian, adjust the heat, or add a personal twist.
Why Recreate the Recipe at Home?
Making your own Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup at home means you can tweak it to your liking. Prefer it spicier? Add more chili powder or jalapeños. Want a creamier texture? Stir in extra sour cream or cheese. Plus, you’ll save money in the long run and get the satisfaction of crafting a restaurant-quality meal in your kitchen. It’s the ultimate win-win situation.
Ingredients and Preparation
Essential Ingredients
To recreate the iconic Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup recipe, you’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry staples. Here’s the complete list of ingredients that bring this dish to life:
- Chicken: 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly).
- Black beans: 1 cup of cooked or canned black beans, rinsed and drained.
- Navy beans: 1 cup of cooked or canned navy beans, also rinsed and drained.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (about 10 ounces) for that signature tang and spice.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups for a rich, flavorful base.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Corn kernels: 1 cup, fresh or frozen, for sweetness and texture.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for that irresistible flavor.
- Cream: Half a cup of heavy cream or plain Greek yogurt for added richness.
- Tortilla strips: Store-bought or homemade, these are a must-have topping.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice adds a burst of freshness.
- Cilantro: Optional but highly recommended for garnish.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Chicken Options: For the best results, opt for shredded rotisserie chicken. Its tenderness and seasoning add extra depth to the soup. Alternatively, you can cook chicken breasts or thighs and shred them yourself.
- Beans: Black beans and navy beans are a classic combination for this recipe. If you prefer a different texture, pinto beans are a fantastic substitute.
- Vegetables: While canned diced tomatoes with green chilies work wonders, feel free to use fresh tomatoes and jalapeños if you prefer a homemade approach.
Preparation Steps Before Cooking
Before you start cooking, a little prep goes a long way in making the process smoother:
- Shred the Chicken: If you’re starting with whole chicken pieces, shred them with two forks or use a hand mixer for a quick and efficient method.
- Rinse and Drain Beans: Always rinse canned beans under cold water to remove excess sodium and any metallic taste.
- Chop and Measure Ingredients: Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and measure out your spices and liquids so everything is ready when you start cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking the Base
The base of the Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup is where all the magic begins. Follow these steps for a flavorful and well-balanced foundation:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently until they’re soft and fragrant—this takes about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Spices:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick (optional).
- Cook the spices for 1 minute to bloom their flavors, ensuring a rich and aromatic base.
- Incorporate the Tomatoes:
- Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, stirring well to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Adding Proteins and Beans
This step adds substance and heartiness to the soup:
- Stir in the Chicken:
- Add the shredded chicken to the pot and mix thoroughly, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the spiced tomato mixture.
- Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Add Beans and Corn:
- Toss in the black beans, navy beans, and corn kernels.
- Stir everything together, creating a vibrant, colorful medley.
- Pour in the Broth:
- Slowly add 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Simmering and Final Touches
The finishing steps are where this soup transforms into a masterpiece:
- Adjust the Thickness:
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a small portion of the beans with a potato masher or blend a cup of the soup and return it to the pot.
- For a thinner consistency, add an extra half cup of chicken broth.
- Add the Cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative).
- Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the cream is fully incorporated for a rich, velvety texture.
- Season to Taste:
- Squeeze in fresh lime juice for brightness.
- Add salt and pepper as needed, tasting to perfect the balance.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and avocado slices, if desired.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
Getting the Consistency Right
One of the defining characteristics of Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup is its perfectly balanced texture—not too thick, not too thin. Here’s how you can achieve that consistency:
- For a Creamier Texture: Blend a cup of the soup (beans, chicken, and broth included) and stir it back into the pot. This creates a luscious base while keeping most of the soup chunky.
- For a Thicker Soup: Add a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina while the soup simmers. This not only thickens the soup but also enhances its flavor with subtle corn notes.
- To Thin it Out: If the soup feels too dense, stir in a bit more chicken broth, one-quarter cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Flavor Enhancements
Even though the recipe is already packed with flavor, you can elevate it further with these simple tweaks:
- Heat It Up: Add fresh or pickled jalapeños to the soup for an extra kick. A few drops of hot sauce will also do the trick if you want to increase the spice level.
- Add a Smoky Depth: A pinch of chipotle powder or a splash of liquid smoke can add a smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the beans and chicken.
- Balance the Spice: If the soup feels too spicy, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to mellow the heat.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is incredibly versatile, and small additions can create a whole new experience:
- For Extra Protein: Stir in a handful of cooked quinoa or lentils during the simmering stage.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add roasted sweet potatoes or chickpeas for a plant-based protein boost.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a gooey, cheesy finish that makes the soup irresistible.
Nutritional Information and Variations
Nutritional Breakdown
When you make Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup at home, you can control the ingredients to suit your dietary needs. Here’s a general nutritional profile for one serving (about 1.5 cups):
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~22g
- Fat: ~10g (depends on cream and cheese added)
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fiber: ~8g
- Sodium: ~700mg (adjust by using low-sodium broth and beans)
This balance of protein, fiber, and complex carbs makes it a wholesome, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to tweak for a lower calorie or sodium version by adjusting toppings and ingredients.
Creative Variations
The versatility of this soup means you can make it your own. Here are some ideas to get creative while keeping that Chick-fil-A-inspired flavor intact:
- Vegetarian Option:
Swap out chicken for diced sweet potatoes or roasted cauliflower. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider adding plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for extra texture. - Low-Carb Alternative:
Replace the beans with diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a lower-carb version. You can also use heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk for the creamy base. - Southwest Style:
Add grilled corn, blackened poblano peppers, and a dash of chipotle powder for a smoky, Southwestern twist. Garnish with a spoonful of guacamole to bring it all together. - Kid-Friendly Version:
Reduce the spices for a milder flavor and add toppings kids love, like shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips. - Hearty Variation:
Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for an even more filling meal, perfect for colder months.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store Soup Properly
Got leftovers? Great! Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup stores beautifully, allowing you to enjoy it later without compromising flavor. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigeration:
- Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Keep toppings like tortilla strips, sour cream, and cheese separate to maintain their freshness and texture.
- Freezing:
- Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Avoid freezing with cream or cheese already added; instead, stir those in after reheating for the best consistency.
Reheating Tips
Reheating soup can be tricky if you want to maintain its original texture and flavor, but these methods ensure success:
- Stovetop Method:
- Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
- Microwave Method:
- Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe plate to prevent splatters.
- Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
- Reheating from Frozen:
- Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat using the stovetop or microwave methods mentioned above.
FAQs about Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
What makes Chick-fil-A’s chicken tortilla soup different?
The unique combination of navy and black beans, paired with shredded chicken and a creamy broth, sets this soup apart. The subtle kick from the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the crunch of tortilla strips add layers of flavor and texture that elevate it beyond a typical chicken soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with plant-based proteins like chickpeas, tofu, or roasted vegetables. Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
How can I thicken the soup naturally?
To thicken the soup without using flour or cream, mash a portion of the beans or blend a small amount of the soup. This method retains the dish’s wholesome ingredients while enhancing its texture.
What are the best toppings for chicken tortilla soup?
The possibilities are endless! Classic toppings include crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. For extra zing, add a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Can I freeze chicken tortilla soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! However, it’s best to freeze it without cream or cheese. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw, reheat, and stir in the creamy ingredients before serving for the best taste and texture.
How do I recreate the crispy tortilla strips?
Making tortilla strips at home is simple. Slice corn tortillas into thin strips, toss them in a little oil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can fry them for a crunchier texture.
Conclusion
Making the Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup recipe at home is not just a culinary adventure but also a wonderful way to recreate the flavors you love. This dish, inspired by the famous fast-food chain, offers a creamy and hearty soup that’s loaded with shredded chicken, beans, and bold spices. By following this Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.
The beauty of this Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup recipe lies in its versatility. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or preparing it for a potluck, it never disappoints. Plus, this Chick-fil-A chicken tortilla soup recipe is perfect for customizing—you can adjust the spice level, add creative toppings, or make it vegetarian to suit your needs.