If you are craving a cozy, flavorful soup that bursts with zesty goodness, this Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, comforting dish that brings together the tangy brightness of salsa verde, tender chicken, and crunchy tortilla strips in one soul-satisfying bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a fiesta of flavors, making every spoonful an absolute delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients here are straightforward but essential, each one playing a key role in building the soup’s bold flavor, rich texture, and beautiful color. From the fresh onion to the punchy salsa verde, every addition enriches this recipe in its own special way.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing the onion and garlic to release their aromas.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory kick that complements the salsa verde.
- 1 (16 oz) jar salsa verde: The star ingredient that delivers tangy, herbal zestiness—homemade or store-bought both work wonderfully.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates a rich, comforting liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds warmth and a subtle earthiness to the soup’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Brings a gentle hint of smoky spice.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Makes the soup hearty and satisfying—rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
- 1 cup corn kernels: A pop of sweetness and texture, adjustable to your preference for fresh, frozen, or canned.
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and beautiful green flecks.
- 1 lime, cut into wedges: For squeezing over the soup right before eating to add a refreshing tang.
- 1 cup tortilla strips: Provide crunch and a classic tortilla soup element—store-bought or homemade.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional): If you like, melting cheese on top adds creamy richness.
- Avocado slices (optional, for garnish): Offer cooling creaminess that balances the zesty soup beautifully.
- Sour cream (optional, for garnish): Adds a velvety finish that soothes and complements the flavors.
How to Make Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown to avoid bitterness.
Step 2: Add Salsa Verde and Spices
Pour in the jar of salsa verde along with the chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 10 minutes. This step infuses the broth with the vibrant and zesty essence of the salsa verde, which really makes this soup sing.
Step 3: Incorporate Chicken and Corn
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and corn kernels. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through. This part makes the soup hearty and satisfying, with the sweet bursts of corn adding lovely textural contrast.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Cilantro
Remove the pot from heat and fold in the chopped fresh cilantro. This final fresh herb addition brightens up the soup, balancing the richness and giving the dish a beautiful green pop.
How to Serve Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes are where you can really personalize the experience. Classic crispy tortilla strips add crunch that contrasts the silky soup. For extra indulgence, sprinkle on some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese while the soup is hot for melty goodness. Creamy avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream round out the flavors with cool, luscious textures. Don’t forget the lime wedges for a squeeze of fresh citrus brightness that lifts every bite.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette or a side of warm, buttered corn tortillas. You could also serve it alongside Mexican-style rice or refried beans for a heartier meal. The soup’s flavor is flavorful enough to stand on its own but plays well with these classic accompaniments if you want to expand your spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bowls topped with a nest of crispy tortilla strips and a sprinkle of cheese, like a beautiful edible garnish. You can also offer a toppings bar with diced avocado, chopped onions, jalapeños, lime wedges, sour cream, and cilantro, letting everyone customize their own bowl. This makes dinner interactive and extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more as it rests, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for last-minute meals full of comforting flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add fresh tortilla strips at serving time to keep their crunch, and refresh any garnishes like cilantro or avocado for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I make this Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken or add in beans or extra vegetables for protein and heartiness. The salsa verde base will keep it packed with flavor.
What type of salsa verde is best to use?
Store-bought jarred salsa verde offers convenience and consistency, but if you prefer a fresher taste, homemade salsa verde made from roasted tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime is fantastic. Either option works well in this recipe.
Can I make the tortilla strips myself?
Yes! Homemade tortilla strips are easy to make by cutting corn tortillas into thin strips, tossing them with a bit of oil and salt, then baking or frying until crisp. They add a lovely homemade touch.
Is this soup spicy?
It has a gentle warmth thanks to the chili powder and salsa verde, but it is not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce if you like a spicier kick.
Can I use leftover roasted chicken for this soup?
Definitely! This soup is a perfect way to use leftover chicken. Shred the chicken finely, and fold it in during the simmering step for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup Recipe is a true gem in my kitchen rotation—simple, flavorful, and endlessly comforting. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a mini celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to soup. Grab those ingredients, get cozy, and enjoy every vibrant spoonful!
