A Flavorful and Customizable Soup for Any Season
Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of my all-time favorite dishes at Chuy’s, and I love it so much that I order it year-round. After searching for the perfect recipe, I came across a few versions online, but many included chicken base, which I prefer to avoid.
So, I created my own homemade version that is just as delicious—if not better.
One of the things I love most about this soup is that it’s a “build your own” style dish. You start with a flavorful chicken stock base and then customize it with your favorite toppings and add-ins.
It’s warm, comforting, and completely adaptable to your preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Fresh – Made with real ingredients and no processed chicken base
- Customizable – Add only the ingredients you love
- Make-Ahead Friendly – The broth can be prepared and frozen for easy weeknight meals
- Naturally Gluten-Free – Made with corn tortillas and fresh ingredients
And if you prefer beans in your soup, feel free to add them in! This version is bean-free, but it can be easily adjusted to fit your taste.
Chicken Tortilla Soup – Chuy’s Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 lb chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons chicken seasoning divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin divided
For the Broth
- ¾ cup yellow onion diced
- ¾ cup celery diced
- ¾ cup carrots diced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 8 cups chicken bone broth
For the Tortilla Strips
- 5 corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- Flaky salt to taste
Toppings (Customize to Your Taste)
- Fire-roasted corn
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- Diced avocado
- Diced fresh cilantro
- Diced fresh tomatoes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Line a shallow pan with parchment paper. Pat chicken dry with a paper towel and place it on the pan.
- Drizzle with avocado oil and season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of chicken seasoning, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and the remaining spices. Rub evenly to coat.
- Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from oven, let cool, then shred the chicken, discarding the skin and bones. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Broth
- While the chicken is roasting, heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add 8 cups of chicken bone broth and bring to a rolling boil.
- Add carrots, celery, onions, and garlic to the pot.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of chicken seasoning and 1 teaspoon of cumin.
- Cook for 10 minutes, or until the carrots are fork-tender.
- Reduce heat to a simmer until ready to serve.
Step 3: Prepare the Tortilla Strips
- Cut 5 corn tortillas into thin strips.
- Toss with avocado oil and place in an air fryer at 400°F. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through.
- (Alternatively, bake in the oven. Cooking times may vary.)
- Let cool and use as a garnish.
Step 4: Assemble Your Soup
- Place shredded chicken in a serving bowl.
- Add any optional toppings like fire-roasted corn, cilantro, cheese, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Pour hot chicken broth over the ingredients.
- Garnish with crispy tortilla strips and flaky salt.
- Serve with warm tortillas or chips and enjoy.
Notes
- Fire-roasted corn: If you can’t find frozen fire-roasted organic corn kernels, regular corn works just as well.
- Chicken broth: I use store-bought chicken broth, but homemade stock or bone broth makes a great substitute.
- Seasoning: Adjust salt and spice levels to your preference—taste as you go.
Make It Your Own
This soup is incredibly versatile. Try these variations:
- Spice it up – Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
- Make it creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Add beans – Black beans or pinto beans work great.
- Use rotisserie chicken – Save time by using pre-cooked shredded chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Chuy’s-inspired Chicken Tortilla Soup is comforting, fresh, and completely customizable. Whether you keep it simple or load it up with toppings, it is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Try it out, and let me know how you customize it. Enjoy!
