Chicken Tortilla Soup
As the calendar flips to April, the view from my living room paints a sunny picture, yet stepping outside reveals a chilly reality of 30-degree weather. Despite this, I've been mustering the courage to venture out for my daily run, layering up against the cold. The initial moments feel bearable, buoyed by upbeat music and the partial shield provided by the city's buildings. However, Chicago's weather has a trick up its sleeve; once out of the sun's direct warmth, the chill sets in, seemingly amplifying by ten degrees. With the first icy gust hitting my lungs, I find myself instinctively retreating homeward, a routine repeated day after day.
I know I'm not alone in this struggle; every Chicagoan is feeling the bite of the lingering cold. So, until warmer days arrive, I'll be seeking solace in my kitchen, preparing a comforting pot of Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
6-8 servings
Ingredients:
3 chicken breasts (boiled and pulled ahead of time)
4 diced tomatoes
1/2 can Chipotle in Adobo
1 can tomato paste
10 oz frozen corn
32 oz chicken broth
Some carrots cut into matchsticks 1 cup Masa Harina*
4 garlic cloves
1 onion diced
1 tbsp chili powder
2 tbsp cumin
Garnish:
Avocado
Cilantro
Green onion
Corn Tortilla Strips
Cheddar Cheese
Instant Pot Directions**: Cut chicken breast into large chunks and throw into the instant pot along with all other ingredients. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. You can quick release the steam and the chicken should pull apart with two forks before serving.
Crock Pot Directions: Boil the chicken and pull ahead of time. Add all other ingredients to a large crock pot and turn crockpot to high. Stir in the pulled chicken and leave for one hour or until the vegetables are softened.
* This was the secret ingredient that had been missing in my tortilla soup for years. It gives the tortilla flavor while also thickening the broth.
** This is the Instapot that I purchased and it’s currently on sale! It is the ideal size for two people if you love leftovers like we do. Thanks to Amy and Angela for your encouragement on the purchase—it’s the only kitchen appliance that I’ve used in weeks!