1 Serving Chicken Tortilla Soup (No Tortilla Strips) is a delicious and healthy option for lunch or dinner. With only 140 calories, it's a low-calorie meal that's packed with flavor. The soup is made with chicken, vegetables, and spices, and is perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of heat in their meals.
In addition to being low in calories, Chicken Tortilla Soup is also rich in nutrients. It's a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great choice for those who want to maintain a healthy diet.
In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, health benefits, nutritional value, preparation, variations, serving suggestions, storage, frequently asked questions, and recipes for Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Ingredients of Chicken Tortilla Soup
The ingredients of Chicken Tortilla Soup include chicken, chicken broth, tomatoes, beans, corn, onions, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and lime juice. Additional toppings may include avocado, cilantro, or cheese. Chicken is the main ingredient in Chicken Tortilla Soup, providing a good source of protein. The broth is often made from scratch or can be made from pre-packaged stock. The addition of vegetables and spices provides flavor and nutrition to the soup. To make the soup vegetarian or vegan, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.
Health Benefits of Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup provides numerous health benefits. Its high protein content helps to build and repair muscles, while the vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the soup is low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight. The spices used in Chicken Tortilla Soup, such as cumin and chili powder, are also beneficial for health. Cumin has been shown to improve digestion and may help to lower blood sugar levels. Chili powder is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Nutritional Value of Chicken Tortilla Soup
One serving of Chicken Tortilla Soup (No Tortilla Strips) contains approximately 140 calories, 15 grams of protein, and 2 grams of fat. It also provides 5 grams of fiber, 8% of the daily value of iron, and 18% of the daily value of vitamin C. The nutritional value of the soup varies depending on the specific ingredients used. For example, using a low-sodium chicken broth can reduce the sodium content, while adding avocado can increase the healthy fat content.
How to Prepare Chicken Tortilla Soup
To make Chicken Tortilla Soup, start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, then add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened. Stir in the tomatoes, beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, and chili powder. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Before serving, stir in the lime juice and any additional toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or cheese. Enjoy hot!
Variations of Chicken Tortilla Soup
There are many variations of Chicken Tortilla Soup, including vegetarian or vegan versions, spicy or mild versions, and creamy variations. Some recipes use shredded chicken, while others use cubed chicken. Additional toppings can include sour cream, salsa, or tortilla strips. To make a creamy version of the soup, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk. For a spicy version, increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños. To make the soup heartier, add rice or quinoa.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal on its own, but can also be served with a variety of sides. Some popular options include Tortilla Chips or strips, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a side salad. The soup can also be served as a starter to a larger meal, or as a side dish to a main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken or steak, or with Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos or enchiladas.
How to Store Chicken Tortilla Soup
Leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through. The soup can also be frozen for later use. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then heat on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. Is Chicken Tortilla Soup healthy? Yes, Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a healthy option when made with nutritious ingredients and served in appropriate portions. 2. Can Chicken Tortilla Soup be made in a slow cooker?
Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipes
Here is a recipe for Chicken Tortilla Soup: Ingredients:
Quick and Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here is a quick and easy recipe for Chicken Tortilla Soup: Ingredients: - 2 cans chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- Toppings (optional): avocado, cheese, sour cream, Tortilla Chips
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, and cumin. Bring the soup to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Add the shredded chicken and stir to combine.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with avocado, cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips if desired. Enjoy hot!
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. Can I add tortilla strips to this soup?
Yes, you can absolutely add tortilla strips to the soup. However, keep in mind that this will increase the overall calorie count of the dish.
2. Is this soup suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
As long as the ingredients used in the soup do not contain gluten, this soup is safe for people with gluten intolerance. It's best to check the labels of the ingredients to make sure they are gluten-free.
3. How can I make this soup more filling?
You can add additional protein sources such as beans or shredded chicken to make this soup more filling. You can also pair it with a side salad or a piece of crusty bread.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. However, it's best to freeze it without the tortilla strips as they may become soggy when reheated.
5. What other toppings can I add to this soup?
You can add toppings such as avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.