Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bowl. This soup is quick to prepare, making it an amazing option for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With just six simple cans, you can create a flavorful and hearty meal that everyone will love. Packed with spices, chicken, and vegetables, this recipe is not just about convenience; it’s also about taste and nourishment.
If you’ve ever craved a warm, filling soup that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is the answer. Imagine a steaming bowl filled with tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla strips, all in a savory broth that warms your soul. This recipe is not only simple but also adjustable to suit your taste buds. You can add your favorite toppings, like avocado or cheese, to make it even more delightful.
In this guide, you will discover why this soup is a must-try, the preparation and cooking times, a complete list of ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to make it perfectly every time. Let’s dive into the amazing world of Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is a favorite for many reasons. Here are some compelling factors that make this recipe stand out:
1. Quick and Easy: With only six cans needed, preparation is a breeze. It’s perfect for those who want a delicious meal without extensive cooking.
2. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices, chicken, and vegetables creates an incredible taste that satisfies your cravings.
3. Versatile: You can easily customize the soup to include your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to your liking.
4. Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with children and adults alike, making it ideal for family dinners.
5. Healthy Option: With lean chicken and plenty of veggies, this soup offers a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
6. Leftover Friendly: This soup stores well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
With these attributes, it’s easy to see why Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is beloved by many. Every spoonful is a delightful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparing Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is quick and straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
This time frame allows you to whip up a delicious meal in no time, making it perfect for busy days when you still want something homemade.
Ingredients
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 can (12.5 oz) canned chicken, drained (or shredded cooked chicken)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
– Optional: 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (to enhance flavor)
– Optional toppings: tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, cheese, sour cream, lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, enchilada sauce, canned chicken, and chicken broth.
2. Add Seasoning: If desired, add taco seasoning for an extra kick. Stir thoroughly to blend all the ingredients.
3. Heat the Soup: Place the pot over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
4. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the soup. Adjust seasonings if necessary, adding salt or pepper to suit your preference.
6. Prepare Toppings: While the soup is simmering, prepare any desired toppings such as slicing avocado, chopping cilantro, or crumbling cheese.
7. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips and your choice of additional toppings.
8. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible flavors of your Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup!
How to Serve
To make your meal even more enjoyable, consider these serving tips:
1. Presentation: Use colorful bowls to serve the soup, enhancing its vibrant colors. A sprinkle of cilantro on top adds a fresh touch.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread on the side for dipping.
3. Topping Variety: Offer a selection of toppings on the table, allowing everyone to customize their soup to their liking.
4. Beverage Pairing: Pair with a refreshing drink, such as iced tea or a light beer, to complement the flavors of the soup.
5. Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable dining experience for everyone enjoying Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Ingredients: While canned goods are convenient, using fresh vegetables can enhance the soup’s flavor and texture. Consider adding diced bell peppers or fresh corn.
– Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, choose tomatoes without green chilies. For extra heat, add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– Garnish Creatively: Experiment with toppings. Chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add unique flavors and colors.
– Serve with a Side: Complement your soup with a fresh salad or cheesy quesadillas for a complete meal.
– Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to prevent the soup from becoming too thick or overcooked.
Recipe Variation
Get creative with your Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup! Here are some exciting variations:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the canned chicken with extra beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Twist: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy flavor.
3. Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a richer texture.
4. Additional Proteins: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey to add depth to the soup.
5. Taco Soup: Incorporate taco-flavored seasoning and serve with tortilla chips for a fun twist on traditional flavors.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if necessary to restore consistency.
– Thawing: To thaw, transfer the soup to the refrigerator a day before serving or use the microwave for a quick thaw.
Special Equipment
You won’t need much special equipment to make Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup, but here are a few essentials:
– Large Pot: A sturdy pot is crucial for combining and simmering the ingredients effectively.
– Wooden Spoon: To stir the ingredients and avoid scratching your pot.
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements, especially if you’re adjusting spices.
– Can Opener: A reliable can opener is essential for accessing all those canned ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use shredded cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a fresh taste.
How do I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) to the pot.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are gluten-free, but check the labels on canned goods to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach.
What can I do if the soup is too salty?
Add more chicken broth or water to dilute the saltiness. You can also incorporate diced potatoes to absorb excess salt.
Conclusion
Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is a delightful and convenient dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. By incorporating additional tips and variations, you can tailor this recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as leftovers, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup: An Incredible Essential Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 can (12.5 oz) canned chicken, drained (or shredded cooked chicken)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
– Optional: 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (to enhance flavor)
– Optional toppings: tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, cheese, sour cream, lime wedges
Instructions
Creating Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, enchilada sauce, canned chicken, and chicken broth.
2. Add Seasoning: If desired, add taco seasoning for an extra kick. Stir thoroughly to blend all the ingredients.
3. Heat the Soup: Place the pot over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
4. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the soup. Adjust seasonings if necessary, adding salt or pepper to suit your preference.
6. Prepare Toppings: While the soup is simmering, prepare any desired toppings such as slicing avocado, chopping cilantro, or crumbling cheese.
7. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips and your choice of additional toppings.
8. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible flavors of your Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 20g