If you’re craving something that’s both vibrant and comforting, look no further than this Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup. This bowl is pure joy: brimming with juicy chicken, tender white beans, sweet corn, and a tangy salsa verde base that’s positively addictive. Each spoonful explodes with freshness, warmth, and a subtle kick—a dreamy fusion that embodies the very best of Mexican-inspired soups. And the toppings? You can go wild and make every bowl your own. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch, this soup never fails to perk up spirits and satisfy bellies!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the loveliest things about this soup is how each ingredient, though simple, adds its own touch, whether it’s flavor, texture, or color. Not only is the list wonderfully accessible, but these basics combine to create absolute magic in every bite!
- Olive oil: Use this to soften your onions and bring out their sweetness, setting the stage for the soup’s layered flavor.
- Onion: Diced onion adds a savory backbone and subtle sweetness to the broth.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the whole pot with aromatic depth—don’t skip it!
- Ground cumin: Adds an unmistakable earthiness and warmth that feels so cozy.
- Chili powder: For just the right amount of smoky heat—adjust to your taste.
- Salsa verde (16 oz jar): The star of the show, bringing tangy, slightly spicy green goodness that transforms the entire soup.
- Chicken broth: A savory, comforting liquid base—use low-sodium to control saltiness.
- Shredded chicken: Perfect use for rotisserie chicken; adds heartiness and protein.
- White beans: These provide a creamy texture and extra body, making each bowl more filling.
- Corn: A pop of sweetness, plus a little color—fresh, frozen, or canned all work!
- Salt and pepper: Seasoning to taste is key for punching up all the other flavors.
- Lime juice: Adds a lift of fresh acidity that brightens up the soup at the end.
- Fresh cilantro: An essential garnish for authentic, aromatic flavor.
- Tortilla strips or chips: Crunchy and satisfying—the crowning touch for texture.
- Optional toppings: Avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños for layers of richness and heat.
How to Make Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat—the scent as the oil warms is your cue that something delicious is happening! Add the diced onion and let it soften for about 4–5 minutes until it’s translucent and sweet. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, stirring for another minute. This step releases a cloud of irresistible aromas and creates the flavorful foundation for your Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup.
Step 2: Add the Salsa Verde and Broth
Here comes the soup’s soul! Pour in the salsa verde and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The salsa verde infuses the broth with zest and a beautiful green color, while the broth provides much-needed depth and heartiness to the soup.
Step 3: Stir in Chicken, Beans, and Corn
It’s time for your protein and pops of color! Stir in the shredded chicken, drained white beans, and corn. Let the soup gently bubble for 10–15 minutes—this allows all the flavors to meld together and ensures the soup is loaded with goodies in every spoonful.
Step 4: Finish and Season
Taste your soup and add salt and black pepper as needed. To really brighten things up, squeeze in the juice of one lime and toss in a handful of chopped cilantro right before serving. These finishing touches elevate the soup and make it sing with fresh, zesty notes.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the hot Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup into cozy bowls, then top with a generous handful of tortilla strips or chips. Go wild with extras—avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños deliver flavor, creaminess, and a dash more heat. Each bowl turns into its own celebration!
How to Serve Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup
Garnishes
A bowl of Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup absolutely shines with the right garnishes. Think creamy sliced avocado, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, dollops of cool sour cream, and a handful of chopped cilantro. For those who love extra heat, a few fresh or pickled jalapeño slices work wonders. And of course, crispy tortilla strips or chips add that must-have crunch—it’s the ultimate fix for texture lovers!
Side Dishes
While this soup is hearty enough to stand alone, it pairs perfectly with simple sides like a light salad tossed with citrus vinaigrette, warm queso dip with tortilla chips, or toasted corn muffins. For a heartier spread, serve it alongside cheesy quesadillas or a platter of street-style elote corn. It’s easy to build a festive meal around this soup!
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-worthy presentation, set up a “soup bar” and let everyone customize their own bowl of Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup with all the toppings lined up buffet-style. Ladle the soup into mugs for a casual gathering, or serve in mini bowls as appetizers at a dinner party. You can even pour the soup over a bed of rice for a burrito-bowl spin that’s as filling as it is flavorful!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup keeps beautifully in the fridge. Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Wait to add chips or fresh toppings until serving to ensure everything stays crisp and vibrant.
Freezing
For longer storage, let the soup cool completely and ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Skip the fresh cilantro, lime juice, and toppings until after thawing and reheating for the best taste and texture. Properly stored, your soup will be a welcome, no-stress lunch or dinner for up to 3 months!
Reheating
Reheating Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup is as easy as it gets. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If using the microwave, cover loosely and heat in 1–2 minute increments, stirring in between. Brighten things up by adding fresh lime juice and cilantro after reheating, right before topping and serving.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the shredded chicken for extra white beans, black beans, or sautéed zucchini. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and you’ll still have all the magic and flavor—just in a completely plant-based package.
How spicy is Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup?
As written, this soup has a gentle kick, with most mild salsa verde brands offering tang and flavor rather than lots of heat. If you prefer a spicier version, go for a hot salsa verde, add extra chili powder, or toss in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce according to your heat tolerance.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Definitely! Leftover turkey is a wonderful substitute and makes this soup an especially great option after holiday meals. Just shred and stir in as you would chicken—no other tweaks needed.
What kind of beans work best?
White beans such as cannellini or great northern beans work beautifully for their creamy texture and neutral flavor. If needed, you can use black beans or pinto beans; the soup will still be delicious but just a little heartier and more colorful!
How can I make this a little richer?
For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a couple dollops of sour cream to the soup itself just before serving, then stir to combine. A little shredded cheese melted into the hot soup is another fantastic way to add creamy body and a touch of decadence.
Final Thoughts
Few things bring as much instant joy and warmth as a bowl of Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup. It’s fast, fun to make, and always a hit with family and friends. I hope you’ll give it a try—chances are it’ll become a forever favorite in your own kitchen!
Print
Flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Salsa Verde Tortilla Soup that combines the tangy flavors of salsa verde with tender chicken, white beans, and corn in a warm and satisfying broth. This easy-to-make soup is garnished with fresh cilantro and served with crunchy tortilla strips for a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Main Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (16 oz) jar salsa verde
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
For Serving:
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
Optional Toppings:
- Diced avocado
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Jalapeños
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in salsa verde and chicken broth, bring to a simmer.
- Add Ingredients: Add chicken, white beans, and corn; simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, stir in lime juice and cilantro. Serve topped with tortilla strips/chips and desired toppings.
Notes
- To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken with extra beans or sautéed zucchini and use vegetable broth.
- For added heat, use a spicy salsa verde or hot sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
