recipe for chicken tortilla soup from chick fil a

The Best recipe for chicken tortilla soup from chick fil a

I’ve been making this version of Chick-fil-A’s chicken tortilla soup for years, ever since my kids would beg for it after school—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a comfort in every bite. There’s something about the creamy, smoky broth, the tender chicken, and the crispy tortilla strips that makes it feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening. My family loves it because it’s simple enough to make in big batches, yet it doesn’t feel like a chore. The kids will eat it straight from the pot, and the adults love how it’s filling without being heavy, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy Saturday spread.

What really sets this recipe apart is how adaptable it is. I’ve made it with extra veggies for the kids who want more fiber, and I’ve even swapped out some of the chicken for leftover grilled chicken from the week for efficiency. The health benefits are nice too—it’s got lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the corn and black beans, and a good dose of vitamins from the tomatoes and spices. Plus, the tortilla strips add a little crunch without being too heavy, making it a balanced meal that’s easy to enjoy every day. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a treat but isn’t, and that’s why I always keep it on hand for when we need something quick, hearty, and delicious.

Chick-fil-A Style Chicken Tortilla Soup

4.9 from 589 votes

A creamy, flavorful soup inspired by Chick-fil-A’s signature dish, featuring tender chicken, warm tortilla chips, and a rich tomato-based broth. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time45 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time65 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth (additional)
• 1 cup chicken milk (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded, finely diced)
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 cup tortilla chips
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
• Lime wedges
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink (~6-7 mins). Remove chicken, set aside.
2. 2 In the same pan, sauté garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for 30 seconds. Add cooked chicken back to the pan and stir to coat.
3. 3 In the stockpot, combine chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil.
4. 4 Reduce heat to low, add shredded chicken and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in chicken milk and simmer another 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. 5 Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6 In a blender, combine half of the soup (for creaminess), add corn, diced bell peppers, and jalapeño. Blend until smooth, then return to the pot. Stir in remaining soup ingredients.
7. 7 Divide soup into bowls. Top with tortilla chips, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado (if using), and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender (optional, for smoother sauce)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 8❤️Cholesterol: 60🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 50🥦Dietary Fiber: 6🍬Sugars: 8🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a dash of hot sauce.,Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegan option.,Adjust spice levels by adding more jalapeño or chili powder.,Make ahead: Soup tastes even better the next day!

This recipe for Chicken Tortilla Soup is always a solid choice for any gathering because it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being too heavy, and the flavors stay balanced and comforting whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or a potluck. It’s simple to make ahead, so you can prep ingredients in advance and just assemble the soup when guests arrive, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute events. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone—kids included—can enjoy, so it never fails to bring people together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chick-fil-A Style Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. What is the key ingredient that makes Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup stand out compared to other versions? Chick-fil-A’s signature dish uses house-made chicken broth infused with a blend of spices, including a proprietary mix of cumin, paprika, and garlic, along with their signature “Chick-fil-A Seasoning” for depth. The soup also features a thick, creamy sauce made with sour cream and a touch of cheese, giving it a rich, velvety texture.

2. How does the soup’s tortilla chips differ from store-bought versions, and what makes them special? Chick-fil-A’s tortilla chips are freshly baked with a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a slightly softer interior. They’re made with a unique blend of corn and flour, seasoned with salt and sometimes a hint of their signature spices. Unlike many store-bought chips, they’re not fried excessively, so they hold up well in the soup without becoming soggy.

3. What’s the secret to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in the soup? The balance comes from three key elements: – The spiced chicken broth (with a slight smokiness from their seasoning). – The creamy, tangy sauce (sour cream and a small amount of melted cheese for richness). – The acidic kick from a splash of lime juice or a few dashes of hot sauce (optional). The soup also benefits from fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a touch of jalapeño for brightness, preventing it from being too heavy or bland.

4. Can you make a homemade version that closely replicates Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup, and what’s the best way to do it? Yes! Here’s a simplified version that captures the essence: – Chicken broth: Use a homemade or high-quality store-bought broth, then season with 1 tbsp Chick-fil-A Seasoning (or a mix of cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika). – Sauce: Simmer 1 cup sour cream with 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) and a splash of chicken broth until slightly thickened. – Chicken: Shred cooked chicken (or use leftover rotisserie chicken) and mix it into the broth. – Toppings: Add diced tomatoes, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Serve with their crispy tortilla chips. For authenticity, some fans add a small amount of chicken fat or butter to the broth for extra richness.

5. Why does Chick-fil-A’s soup taste different from what you’d find at other restaurants or even homemade versions? Several factors contribute to its unique flavor: – Chick-fil-A’s signature seasoning (a blend of herbs and spices) gives it a distinct, slightly smoky depth. – The creamy sauce is less tangy than some Mexican-style soups but richer, thanks to the sour cream and cheese. – The tortilla chips are made fresh and have a crispy yet slightly chewy texture, unlike store-bought chips that can be too soft or greasy. – The broth is not overly spicy, allowing the chicken and spices to shine without overpowering the dish with heat.