Chicken Tortilla Soup with Corn (Healthy & Freezer-Friendly!)

There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that instantly feels like a hug in a bowl. This Chicken Tortilla Soup with Corn combines bold Mexican-inspired flavors with fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is healthy.

This recipe starts with a flavorful base of poblano peppers, onions, and garlic. Chicken is poached directly in the broth, absorbing all the spices and flavors, while corn tortillas thicken the soup naturally. Sweet, fresh corn adds a delightful crunch, and the toppings take this dish over the top—think creamy avocado, tangy queso fresco, and crispy tortilla strips.

Before You Get Started

Here are a few quick tips to make your Chicken Tortilla Soup absolutely foolproof:

• Choose your peppers: Poblano peppers add a mild, smoky heat. Want it spicier? Swap in jalapeños or serranos, or toss in a chipotle pepper for smoky depth.
• Thickening trick: Corn tortillas are the secret to a rich, velvety soup. Tear them up and let them simmer in the broth for natural thickening magic.
• Easy protein swap: Use fresh chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even turkey—whatever works best for you! Or go vegetarian and swap in beans.
• Topping fun: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Load up with avocado, crispy tortilla strips, and queso fresco for the ultimate flavor boost.

Recipe Ingredients

You only need a handful of ingredients to whip up this flavorful soup:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. You can also speed things up and use rotisserie chicken.
• Poblano peppers: These mild peppers add depth and smokiness to the broth. Use jalapenos or serranos for a spicier soup. 
• Garlic and onions: Essential for building flavor. Fresh is always best, but I also love using frozen cubes. 
• Corn tortillas: Torn into pieces to naturally thicken the soup. If you prefer not to use tortillas, you can swap in masa harina or a can of refried beans. 
• Fresh corn: Adds sweetness and texture. Frozen or canned corn works as well. For some added smokiness use roasted corn. 
• Died tomatoes: Grab your favorite canned diced tomatoes to flavor the broth. Use fire roasted for a smokier flavor or diced tomatoes with green chilies for a little extra spice.
• Chicken broth: Use a good-quality broth for the best flavor. Swap in bone broth for some extra protein and nutrients. 
• Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create a rich, warm base. You could also use taco seasoning. 
• Toppings: Avocado, queso fresco or Monterey jack cheese, sour cream, baked tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice are my favorites.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Chicken Tortilla Soup with Corn:

1. Sauté the Base
   Heat oil in a large pot and sauté diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped poblano peppers until fragrant and softened.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, and spices to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Make sure not to overcook the chicken so it doesn't get tough or rubbery. Remove it from the soup and shred with two forks. 
3. Thicken the Soup
   Tear the corn tortillas into small pieces and add them to the pot. Let them simmer for 10 minutes, then use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a thicker texture.
4. Add Corn & Finish
   Stir in the fresh corn and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve & Garnish
   Ladle the soup into bowls and top with avocado, queso fresco, sour cream, tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro.

You can also make this tasty Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup if you prefer a hands-off option.

How to Customize the Soup

Make it spicier by adding chipotle peppers in adobo or using serrano peppers. Switch the protein by trying shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even shrimp. Keep it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding black beans or pinto beans.

Topping Ideas

Here’s how to take your Chicken Tortilla Soup with Corn to the next level:

• Avocado adds creamy richness.
• Queso fresco is a tangy, traditional cheese or use cheddar, jack, or Mexican cheese.
• Baked tortilla strips provide a crispy crunch.
• Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt offers a cool, creamy contrast.
• Jalapeño slices are perfect for extra heat.
• Green onions or diced white onions add some crunch and texture.