Make Ahead Chicken Tortilla Soup With Canned Chicken For Busy Weeknights
When life gets hectic, the last thing you want to worry about is preparing dinner. That’s where this Make Ahead Chicken Tortilla Soup comes to the rescue. Using canned chicken makes this dish not only quick but also incredibly convenient. You can whip it up in no time, allowing you to spend more quality moments with your family or simply unwind after a busy day.
This soup is packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your tastes. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeknights. With fresh toppings and a few simple ingredients, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup tortilla strips, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 1 avocado, diced, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the pot. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the canned chicken, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the soup is heated through, remove it from the heat. Serve immediately or let it cool for meal prep.
- When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Why Use Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s pre-cooked, which means you save time on preparation. Just open the can, drain, and add it straight into your recipe. This also means that you can have a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Moreover, canned chicken is versatile. You can incorporate it into various recipes, not just soup but also salads, casseroles, and sandwiches. For this recipe, it adds protein and flavor without the hassle of cooking raw chicken.
Customizing Your Soup
This chicken tortilla soup can be easily customized to fit your taste preferences. If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. For a creamier texture, try stirring in some sour cream or cream cheese just before serving.
Vegetarians can swap the canned chicken for additional beans or tofu, and you can experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!
Storing and Reheating
This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
If you want to freeze it, allow it to cool and then place it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it on the stovetop.
FAQ
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Cook it separately before adding it to the soup, or you can shred cooked rotisserie chicken for a similar convenience.
How do I make this soup spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the pot while cooking to increase the heat level of the soup.
What can I serve with chicken tortilla soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even quesadillas for a complete meal.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with additional beans, lentils, or vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
This Make Ahead Chicken Tortilla Soup With Canned Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a delicious and filling meal on the table in no time. Plus, the ability to customize and store it for later makes this recipe a must-try for any home cook.
So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of warmth and flavor. Your family will love it, and you’ll appreciate the ease and convenience it brings to your weeknight dinners.
