We’ve always been huge fans of McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup, that hearty favorite packed with tender chicken, zesty spices and crunchy tortilla strips. Originating from the beloved deli chain it’s a comforting bowl that warms you up on chilly days and brings a taste of restaurant magic right to your kitchen.
In our version we capture the essence of this classic while making it simple to whip up at home. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or want to impress guests this recipe delivers bold flavors that keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
We love how the fresh, vibrant ingredients in our Chicken Tortilla Soup McAlister’s recipe come together to create a hearty, flavorful dish that captures the comforting essence of the original. Below, we’ve listed the key ingredients in the order they’re typically used, with prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
Main Components
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total; poach and shred them for tender texture)
- 1 medium onion (diced finely for a sweet, aromatic base)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced to release their pungent flavor)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped for added crunch and color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (use fire-roasted for a smoky depth)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed to keep the soup light)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels (thawed for a sweet, juicy pop)
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium for better control of seasoning)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (for that warm, earthy spice)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (to enhance the authentic Mexican-inspired taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste for balanced flavor)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a sharp kick)
- 4 corn tortillas (cut into strips and fried or baked for crispy toppings)
- Juice of 1 lime (freshly squeezed for a bright, tangy finish)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, about ¼ cup, for a herbaceous garnish that elevates the senses)
These ingredients ensure our Chicken Tortilla Soup delivers the rich, comforting flavors you adore from McAlister’s, making it simple to whip up at home.
Instructions
With our fresh ingredients like boneless chicken breasts, onion, garlic, and spices assembled, we’re ready to transform them into a hearty, flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup inspired by McAlister’s. Let’s walk through the process step by step to ensure a delicious, comforting result.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients to make the process smooth and efficient. Begin by gathering and prepping the components:
- Chop 1 medium onion into fine dice to release its pungent aroma, which forms the base of our soup’s savory flavor.
- Mince 3 garlic cloves for a robust, garlicky punch that infuses the broth with depth.
- Dice 1 red bell pepper into ½-inch pieces to add a sweet, crunchy contrast that brightens the overall dish.
- Cube 1 pound of boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking for tender, juicy results.
- Drain and rinse 1 can (15 ounces) of black beans and 1 can (15 ounces) of corn to remove excess sodium and preserve their fresh, vibrant texture.
- Measure out spices including 1 teaspoon chili powder and ½ teaspoon cumin for a warm, earthy kick that mimics the original recipe’s spice profile.
This prep takes about 10-15 minutes and sets the stage for a seamless cooking experience.
Cooking the Soup
Now that our ingredients are prepped, we’ll cook the soup in a large pot over medium heat, building layers of flavor for a rich, aromatic broth.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften and release a sweet, fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Add the cubed chicken breasts to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden and opaque, locking in its moist, tender texture.
- Stir in 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, the drained black beans, corn, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky depth. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a hearty, velvety broth with hints of spice and sweetness that evoke the comforting essence of McAlister’s original.
This step creates a soup that’s not only visually appealing with its colorful mix but also packed with robust flavors that warm the soul.
Assembling and Serving
With the soup cooked to perfection, we’ll add final touches to enhance its texture and presentation, making it ready for a satisfying meal.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, ensuring each serving includes a mix of chicken, beans, and vegetables for a balanced, hearty bite.
- Top with garnishes like crispy tortilla strips for a crunchy contrast, shredded cheese for creamy richness, and fresh cilantro for a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the dish’s fresh flavors.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side, encouraging guests to squeeze in fresh citrus for a zesty tang that brightens the overall taste.
This final assembly turns our homemade version into a restaurant-quality delight that’s perfect for quick dinners or gatherings.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this take on McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup, as it’s a simple way to bring restaurant vibes into our kitchens.
It’s rewarding to whip up a bowl that’s hearty and full of flavor, turning everyday ingredients into something special.
Let’s make this recipe our go-to for cozy meals—it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup?
McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish known for its comforting blend of chicken, vegetables, and spices. It’s a popular restaurant favorite that’s perfect for chilly days, featuring ingredients like chicken, beans, corn, and tomatoes in a rich broth.
What ingredients are needed for the homemade version?
You’ll need boneless chicken breasts, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chicken broth, and spices like cumin and chili powder. These fresh components create a vibrant, restaurant-quality soup that’s easy to prepare at home.
How long does it take to make Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Prep work takes about 10-15 minutes, including chopping veggies and cubing chicken. Cooking involves sautéing and simmering for 20-25 minutes, so the entire recipe can be ready in under an hour, making it ideal for quick meals.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can swap red bell pepper for green or use turkey instead of chicken for a twist. Adjust spices for heat levels, but keep core items like beans and corn for the authentic flavor. Always taste and tweak as needed.
Is this soup healthy?
This Chicken Tortilla Soup is nutritious, packed with lean protein from chicken, fiber from beans and veggies, and vitamins. It’s lower in calories if you go easy on garnishes, but it’s hearty and satisfying for a balanced meal.
What are the best ways to serve it?
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for zest. It’s great for quick dinners or gatherings, and pairs well with sides like salad or bread for a complete meal.