Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a fan-favorite known for its creamy, cheesy goodness and rich flavor. This copycat recipe brings the restaurant’s classic right to your kitchen, making it easy to enjoy at home. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices or simply craving comfort food, this soup is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this delicious dish with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Introduction to Max And Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a signature dish at the popular restaurant chain, beloved for its rich, creamy texture and perfect balance of spices. It combines tender chicken with a flavorful base of tomatoes, cheese, and broth, topped off with crispy tortilla strips. This hearty soup has become a favorite comfort food for many, offering the warmth and flavors of the Southwest.
What sets this soup apart is its combination of bold flavors and its indulgent creaminess, making it more than just a standard chicken soup. The recipe brings together the best of both worlds—cheesy goodness with a slight kick of spice, enhanced by the crunch of tortilla strips. With its unique blend of textures and flavors, Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup has earned a reputation as a must-try dish for soup lovers.
Ingredients for Max And Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup
To make a delicious bowl of Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup at home, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are easy to find at any grocery store and form the foundation of this creamy, flavorful soup.
Main Ingredients:
- Cooked Chicken – 2 cups, shredded or diced. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Chicken Broth – 4 cups. This forms the base of the soup, providing depth and richness.
- Tomato Sauce – 1 cup. Adds a tangy, rich tomato flavor.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies – 1 can (10 oz). These bring a subtle kick of spice and extra flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded. This gives the soup its signature creamy, cheesy texture.
- Monterey Jack Cheese – 1 cup, shredded. Adds extra creaminess and mild flavor.
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup. This helps create the rich, smooth texture.
- Taco Seasoning – 2 tablespoons. A blend of spices that gives the soup its bold, Southwestern flavor.
- Corn – 1 cup, canned or frozen. Adds sweetness and texture to the soup.
- Black Beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed. These add protein and make the soup more filling.
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped. Adds savory depth to the soup.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced. For a fragrant, flavorful base.
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon. For sautéing the onion and garlic.
For the Tortilla Strips:
- Corn Tortillas – 4-6, cut into thin strips. These will be crisped up and used as a topping.
- Vegetable Oil – For frying the tortilla strips.
Optional Toppings:
- Cilantro – Chopped, for garnish.
- Avocado – Diced, for a creamy, fresh touch.
- Sour Cream – A dollop to add extra richness.
- Lime Wedges – For a fresh, tangy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Tortilla Soup
Follow these simple steps to recreate Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup at home. The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
- Pour in the chicken broth (4 cups), stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Add 1 cup of tomato sauce and 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, stirring until well mixed.
Step 3: Incorporate the Seasonings
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning for that bold, Southwestern flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Chicken, Corn, and Beans
- Stir in the shredded chicken (2 cups), 1 cup of corn, and 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed).
- Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken and vegetables to absorb the flavors of the broth.
Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese.
- Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to let the soup boil, as this could cause the cream and cheese to separate.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more taco seasoning, salt, or pepper based on your preference.
Step 7: Prepare the Tortilla Strips
- While the soup is simmering, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the corn tortilla strips (4-6 tortillas, cut into thin strips) and fry until they are crispy and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Remove the strips from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while still hot.
Step 8: Serve the Soup
- Ladle the creamy chicken tortilla soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with the crispy tortilla strips for added texture and crunch.
Optional: Garnish and Customize
- Add your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavor.
How to Make Crispy Tortilla Strips
Crispy tortilla strips are the perfect topping for Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup, adding crunch and a hint of corn flavor. You can easily make them at home with a few simple steps. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
Method 1: Frying Tortilla Strips
Ingredients:
- Corn Tortillas – 4-6 tortillas, cut into thin strips
- Vegetable Oil – For frying
- Salt – To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cut the Tortillas:
Stack the corn tortillas and slice them into thin strips, about ¼ inch wide. You can also cut them into triangles if you prefer a different shape.
Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of tortilla sizzles when dropped in.
Fry the Strips:
Working in batches, carefully place the tortilla strips in the hot oil, making sure they’re not too crowded. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the strips and ensure they cook evenly.
Drain and Season:
Once fried, remove the tortilla strips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with salt while they’re still hot to add flavor.
Pro Tips:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy strips.
- Watch them closely as they cook quickly and can burn easily.
Method 2: Baking Tortilla Strips
For a lighter, healthier option, you can bake the tortilla strips instead of frying them. This method is lower in fat but still gives you crispy results.
Ingredients:
- Corn Tortillas – 4-6 tortillas, cut into thin strips
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Tortillas:
- Slice the corn tortillas into thin strips and place them in a bowl.
- Drizzle the strips with olive oil and toss to coat them evenly.
Bake the Strips:
- Spread the tortilla strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Season and Cool:
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with salt. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips:
- Keep an eye on the strips while baking as they can brown quickly.
- You can sprinkle them with additional seasonings like chili powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Method 3: Air Frying Tortilla Strips
If you have an air fryer, this method is a quick and convenient way to make crispy tortilla strips with minimal oil.
Ingredients:
- Corn Tortillas – 4-6 tortillas, cut into thin strips
- Cooking Spray or 1 tablespoon of Olive Oil
- Salt – To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cut and Coat the Tortillas:
- Slice the corn tortillas into thin strips.
- Lightly spray the strips with cooking spray or toss them with olive oil.
Air Fry the Strips:
- Place the strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping.
Season and Serve:
- Once they’re crispy and golden, remove the strips and sprinkle them with salt.
Pro Tips:
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow the strips to crisp up properly.
- Air fryer times may vary depending on the model, so keep an eye on them.
Tips for a Creamy and Cheesy Tortilla Soup
Achieving the perfect creamy and cheesy texture is what makes Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup so irresistible. Here are some expert tips to ensure your soup turns out rich, smooth, and full of flavor every time.
Use a Combination of Cheeses
To recreate the signature cheesy taste of this soup, it’s important to use a blend of cheeses. Cheddar cheese provides sharpness, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess. You can also experiment with other mild, melting cheeses like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of extra flavor.
Tip:
Always use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Incorporate Heavy Cream for Richness
Adding heavy cream is essential for achieving the creamy texture that balances out the bold flavors of the soup. Heavy cream creates a velvety base that blends seamlessly with the cheese, making the soup smooth without it feeling too heavy.
Tip:
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be slightly less rich.
Stir Constantly When Adding Cheese
To avoid lumps or curdling, stir the soup continuously over low heat when adding the cheese. High heat can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy, which affects the smooth consistency of the soup.
Tip:
Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring after each addition to ensure it melts evenly into the soup.
Avoid Boiling After Adding Dairy
Once the cream and cheese are added to the soup, avoid boiling it, as this can cause the dairy to break and result in a less creamy texture. Keep the soup over low heat to maintain its smooth consistency.
Tip:
If the soup thickens too much, thin it out with a little extra broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Blend a Portion of the Soup
For an extra creamy texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken and other solid ingredients. Use an immersion blender to blend part of the base, or carefully transfer some to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
Tip:
Blending the soup also helps incorporate all the flavors, resulting in a thicker and richer broth.
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Since this soup relies heavily on a few key ingredients, it’s important to use high-quality items, especially when it comes to cheese and cream. Opt for full-fat dairy for the best flavor and texture.
Tip:
When using chicken broth, choose a low-sodium variety so you can better control the seasoning and enhance the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Balance Flavors with Acid
To balance the richness of the cheese and cream, add a splash of lime juice just before serving. The acidity brightens the soup and cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor.
Tip:
Garnish with diced avocado or a spoonful of sour cream for additional creaminess without overpowering the dish.
Don’t Skip the Crispy Tortilla Strips
The crunchy tortilla strips on top provide contrast to the creamy soup. Their crispy texture complements the smooth base, and the hint of corn flavor adds authenticity to the dish. Make sure they’re freshly fried or baked for maximum crunch.
Tip:
You can also crumble some strips into the soup for a thicker texture or as a topping for extra crunch in every bite.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional content of Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup can help you make informed choices, whether you’re counting calories or just curious about the health benefits. While this soup is known for its creamy and cheesy goodness, there are ways to enjoy it while being mindful of your dietary needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition for a typical serving of this copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup (based on a 1-cup serving size):
Estimated Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900-1000mg
- Calcium: 20% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 10% of DV
- Iron: 8% of DV
Nutrient Breakdown:
Calories:
This soup is moderately high in calories, primarily due to the use of cheese and heavy cream. If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, you can substitute half-and-half or low-fat cheese instead of full-fat versions.
Protein:
With around 20 grams of protein per serving, the shredded chicken and black beans provide a good source of protein, making the soup a satisfying, filling meal option.
Carbohydrates:
Each serving has around 25 grams of carbs, mainly from the corn, beans, and tortilla strips. If you’re following a low-carb diet, consider reducing the amount of corn and tortilla strips or skipping them altogether.
Fiber:
The addition of black beans adds roughly 4 grams of fiber per serving, which helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Fat:
The soup contains around 20 grams of fat, with 10 grams of saturated fat. This comes from the cheese and heavy cream, which are necessary for the soup’s creamy texture. To cut down on fat, opt for reduced-fat cheeses or light cream.
Cholesterol:
Cholesterol content is around 80mg per serving, largely from the dairy products used in the recipe. If you’re watching your cholesterol intake, you might choose lower-fat alternatives for the cream and cheese.
Sodium:
This soup is on the higher end in terms of sodium content, with approximately 900-1000mg per serving, which is about 40% of the recommended daily intake. To lower sodium levels, use low-sodium chicken broth and reduced-sodium canned beans.
Calcium:
Thanks to the cheese, each serving provides about 20% of your daily calcium needs, supporting bone health.
Vitamins and Minerals:
The soup also provides Vitamin C (from the tomatoes and chilies) and iron (from the black beans), contributing to your overall nutrient intake.
Healthier Modifications:
- Reduce Calories: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or light cream. You can also use reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories without sacrificing too much flavor.
- Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and rinsed canned beans. Skip adding extra salt to the soup.
- Increase Fiber: Add more black beans or extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to boost fiber content.
- Lower Carbs: If you’re on a low-carb diet, reduce or skip the corn and tortilla strips, or replace them with a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tortilla Soup
Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and hearty dish that can stand alone as a meal, but pairing it with the right sides and toppings can elevate the experience. Here are some great options to complement and enhance the soup.
Toppings for Extra Flavor and Texture
Adding toppings to your chicken tortilla soup not only boosts the flavor but also provides contrast in textures, from crunchy to creamy.
- Crispy Tortilla Strips: Essential for adding crunch, these strips are the classic topping for this soup.
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the soup’s rich flavors.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream offers cool, tangy creaminess that balances the spiciness of the soup.
- Diced Avocado: Fresh avocado chunks give the soup a buttery, creamy texture that pairs well with the cheese and chicken.
- Sliced Jalapeños: If you like extra heat, add some thinly sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Shredded Cheese: For those who love extra cheese, sprinkle additional cheddar or Monterey Jack on top for added richness.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the soup and cuts through the creaminess with a tangy burst.
Side Dishes to Serve Alongside
While this soup can be a meal on its own, serving it with a side can make for a more complete and satisfying meal.
Cornbread:
The sweetness of cornbread complements the spicy and savory flavors of the soup. You can serve it with honey butter for a more indulgent option.
Mexican Rice:
A side of Spanish or Mexican rice is a great accompaniment, adding substance without overwhelming the soup’s flavors.
Quesadillas:
Serve simple cheese quesadillas or add fillings like chicken, beans, or veggies. The cheesy, crispy quesadilla pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
Tacos:
Soft or hard-shell tacos with fillings like ground beef, chicken, or beans offer a great complement to the soup, making the meal more varied and hearty.
Salad:
A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup, offering a lighter, healthier side option.
Chips and Salsa:
Keep it simple with a side of tortilla chips and fresh salsa or guacamole. The crunch of the chips adds a nice contrast to the creamy soup.
Drinks to Pair with the Soup
Pairing your chicken tortilla soup with the right drink can enhance the dining experience.
- Margaritas: A classic lime margarita, whether frozen or on the rocks, complements the bold, spicy flavors of the soup.
- Mexican Beer: Light, crisp Mexican beers like Corona or Modelo are perfect for balancing the creamy and cheesy notes of the soup.
- Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, unsweetened iced tea with a wedge of lemon offers a refreshing contrast.
- Agua Fresca: A fruit agua fresca, such as watermelon or hibiscus, is a sweet, refreshing beverage that pairs well with the soup’s rich flavors.
Light and Healthy Accompaniments
If you want to keep your meal lighter, there are healthy sides that pair well with the soup’s richness.
Grilled Vegetables:
A side of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus adds a healthy and colorful touch to the meal, with the smoky flavor balancing the soup’s richness.
Sautéed Greens:
Lightly sautéed spinach or kale with garlic can provide a nutritious side without being too heavy.
Cucumber Salad:
A cool cucumber salad with lime and cilantro offers a refreshing, crisp contrast to the warmth and spice of the soup.
Bread Options
Bread is always a crowd-pleaser, and pairing the soup with the right type can help soak up every last bit of cheesy broth.
Crusty Bread:
Serve a loaf of French bread or ciabatta on the side, which can be torn into chunks and dipped into the soup.
Tortillas:
Warm flour or corn tortillas can be used to scoop up the soup or serve as a side for wrapping up some of the ingredients.
Common Variations and Recipe Tips
Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or ingredient availability. Here are some common variations and helpful tips to make the recipe your own.
Variations for Dietary Preferences
Vegetarian Version:
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with diced tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add chickpeas or black beans for protein. Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan option.
Low-Carb Version:
For a lower-carb option, omit the corn and tortilla strips. Use zucchini noodles or shredded cabbage as a substitute for tortilla strips. Ensure you use a low-carb thickening agent if needed, such as xanthan gum or guar gum.
Spicy Version:
Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
Creamy and Spicy:
Blend in a small amount of sriracha or cayenne pepper with the cream and cheese to add both heat and depth to the creamy base.
Recipe Tips for Perfect Soup
Use Homemade Chicken Broth:
For the richest flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. It will give your soup a deeper, more satisfying taste compared to store-bought varieties.
Make Ahead and Store:
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.
Adjust Consistency:
If the soup becomes too thick after refrigeration, add a little chicken broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Enhance Flavor:
Let the soup sit for a few hours or overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and can make the soup even more flavorful.
Thicken the Soup:
If you prefer a thicker soup, use a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little water) or blend part of the soup to thicken it naturally. For a more traditional method, add mashed beans to thicken the soup.
Add Fresh Herbs:
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley added at the end of cooking or as a garnish can brighten up the soup and add a fresh flavor contrast.
Experiment with Toppings:
Beyond the classic crispy tortilla strips, try toppings like crumbled bacon, roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds), or pickled red onions for added flavor and texture.
Adjusting for Flavor
Balancing Flavors:
If the soup is too tangy from the tomatoes, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. Conversely, if it’s too bland, enhance the flavor with extra taco seasoning or salt.
Adding Vegetables:
For added nutrition and texture, consider incorporating diced sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or corn to give the soup more substance and a touch of sweetness.
Customizing Spice Levels:
Customize the spice level to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of taco seasoning or chilies. For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Creative Twists
Southwestern Twist:
Add roasted poblano peppers or corn salsa for a southwestern twist. These ingredients add unique flavors that complement the soup’s base.
Cheesy Variations:
Experiment with different cheese blends like Mexican blend or Pepper Jack to add different flavors and spice levels.
Garnish with Style:
Try garnishing with crushed tortilla chips, diced green onions, or a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Recipe Tips for Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creating the perfect bowl of Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup requires attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best version of this classic recipe:
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh Chicken:
For the best flavor, use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If possible, cook and shred your own chicken rather than using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, which may contain added salt and preservatives.
Fresh Vegetables:
Incorporate fresh onions, garlic, and tomatoes for a more robust flavor. Fresh ingredients provide a cleaner taste and better texture.
Develop Deep Flavors
Sauté Aromatics:
Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding other ingredients helps build a flavor base for the soup. Ensure they are cooked until soft and fragrant, but not browned, to avoid a bitter taste.
Simmer Well:
Allow the soup to simmer for a sufficient time to let the flavors meld together. A good simmer time is about 15-20 minutes after all ingredients have been added, but you can let it simmer longer if needed.
Achieve Creaminess
Add Cheese Gradually:
When incorporating cheese, add it gradually and stir continuously to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup without clumping.
Avoid Boiling:
After adding cream and cheese, keep the soup at a low simmer. Boiling can cause the cream to separate and the cheese to curdle.
Adjust Thickness
Thicken or Thin:
If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it by blending a portion of the soup or adding a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the soup).
Creamy Consistency:
For a richer texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender. This helps incorporate the flavors and thicken the soup naturally.
Perfect Tortilla Strips
Fry for Crunch:
For the crispiest tortilla strips, fry them in hot vegetable oil and drain on paper towels. Ensure the oil is hot enough to avoid soggy strips.
Baking Option:
For a healthier alternative, bake the tortilla strips at 400°F (200°C) until crispy. Toss with a little olive oil and salt before baking for the best results.
Seasoning and Spice
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning depending on your preference.
Balance Flavors:
If the soup is too tangy from the tomatoes, a small amount of sugar can balance the acidity. For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Storage and Reheating
Store Properly:
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat Gently:
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a bit of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Garnishing
Add Freshness:
Garnish each bowl with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dollop of sour cream to add freshness and brighten the flavors.
Experiment with Toppings:
Besides the classic toppings, try diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Adjusting for Serving Size
Scaling the Recipe:
If making a larger batch for a crowd, adjust the ingredients proportionally. Ensure you have a large enough pot and extend the simmering time if necessary to allow flavors to develop.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the soup with warm cornbread, cheese quesadillas, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Max & Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup offers a comforting and versatile dish that can be customized to fit various preferences and dietary needs. With its creamy, cheesy base and an array of flavorful toppings and side options, this soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together. By following the detailed tips and variations provided, you can easily recreate this beloved recipe in your own kitchen, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time. Enjoy the process of making it your own, and relish each bowl of this comforting classic.
FAQS
Max And Erma’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts cooked and shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Tortilla strips for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Shred cooked chicken breasts and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings: Add shredded chicken, corn, black beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in cilantro. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips.