Craving a bowl of warm, flavorful soup? Let me show you how to make Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup that is both quick and delicious. With tender chicken, beans, and spices, this soup is a meal that satisfies. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in your Instant Pot! You’ll love how simple it is to create this cozy dish. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn (can be fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Tortilla chips, for serving
– Shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
To make this soup, you start with fresh chicken. I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and shred easily. Next, I add black beans and diced tomatoes. These give the soup a hearty texture.
For veggies, use onions and garlic. They add a base of flavor that can’t be beat. Corn adds sweetness and color. Don’t forget the chicken broth! It ties all the flavors together.
For seasoning, I use ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. These spices give the soup warmth and depth. You can adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Finally, the garnishes elevate the dish. I recommend crispy tortilla chips, shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. They add color, taste, and crunch.
You can find the full recipe in the article to make this dish at home. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sautéing the Base
– Heating the Olive Oil
Start by turning on your Instant Pot. Select the ‘Sauté’ function and pour in the olive oil. Let it heat for a minute until it shimmers.
– Cooking the Onion and Garlic
Add the finely chopped onion next. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes. Stir often. You want the onion to be soft and fragrant. After that, mix in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 more minute to wake up the flavors.
Adding the Main Ingredients
– Incorporating Chicken and Broth
Place the boneless chicken breasts into the pot. Carefully pour in the chicken broth. This will add a rich base to your soup.
– Mixing in Beans and Corn
Add the rinsed black beans and the diced tomatoes. Don’t forget to include the corn! Stir gently to combine everything. Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
Pressure Cooking Process
– Setting Up the Instant Pot
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot. Make sure the steam release valve is set to ‘Sealing.’ Select the ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the timer for 10 minutes.
– Quick Release Technique
After the cook time ends, carefully turn the steam release valve to ‘Venting.’ Be cautious, as steam will escape rapidly. This step releases the pressure quickly.
Shredding the Chicken
– Removing and Shredding Chicken Breasts
Once the pressure is released, remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
– Mixing Shredded Chicken Back into Soup
Add the shredded chicken back into the soup. Stir well to mix it with the broth and other ingredients.
Final Touches
– Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the soup now. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper to your liking. Stir everything once more to blend the flavors.
– Serving Suggestions
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top it with crispy tortilla chips. Add shredded cheese, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice adds the perfect zing. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup! For the full recipe, check the reference above.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Flavor
– Utilize Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Use ripe tomatoes and crisp herbs. Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture. Always look for the best quality. It enhances the whole dish.
– Balance Spices According to Taste
Each person enjoys different spice levels. Start with less and taste as you go. If you want more heat, add chili powder or jalapeños. Adjusting spices helps you create your perfect soup.
Instant Pot Cooking Tips
– Ensuring Proper Seal
A good seal is key for pressure cooking. Check the rubber gasket on the lid. Make sure it’s clean and in place. A tight seal helps cook the chicken quickly.
– Cook Time Adjustments for Different Chicken Cuts
If you use thighs instead of breasts, adjust the time. Thighs can take a bit longer. For bone-in chicken, add a few extra minutes. Always check for doneness to ensure safety.
Presentation Ideas
– Creative Garnishing Techniques
Garnishes add fun and color. Try stacking tortilla chips like a tower. Use a sprinkle of cheese and cilantro on top. A lime wedge adds brightness and a pop of color.
– Serving in Unique Bowls
The right bowl can elevate your soup. Use colorful bowls or rustic dishes. Small cast-iron skillets can make a fun serving idea. Get creative with how you serve it!
Variations
Substitute Ingredients
You can change the proteins in this soup. Instead of chicken, try turkey or beef for a new twist. Both options work well and add unique flavors. For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap the chicken for beans or lentils. This keeps the soup hearty and satisfying. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter taste.
Flavor Enhancers
Adding extra vegetables can boost your soup’s flavor and nutrition. Consider bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. These veggies add color and texture. You can also try different herbs like oregano or cilantro. Fresh herbs will brighten the soup and make it more aromatic.
Meal Prep Variations
Meal prep is easy with this recipe. You can freeze portions for later. Just let the soup cool before placing it in airtight containers. This way, you always have a quick meal ready. Making a doubled batch is also a smart idea. You can enjoy half now and save the rest for busy days ahead.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
– Refrigeration Duration: Store your soup in an airtight container. It lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
– Freezing Tips: To freeze, use a freezer-safe container. Leave space for expansion. Your soup can stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
– Best Methods for Reheating: For the best results, reheat the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir it often to warm it evenly. You can also use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
– Maintaining Flavor and Texture: Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating. This keeps the soup moist and flavorful. Mix well to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
How can I make the soup less spicy?
To reduce the spice level, you have a few options:
– Use mild tomatoes: Choose tomatoes without added spice.
– Add dairy: Stir in sour cream or yogurt to cool the heat.
– Increase volume: Add more broth or beans to dilute the spice.
– Sugar: A small amount of sugar can balance the heat.
Try these tips to find the right heat for your taste.
Can I use a different cooking method?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker or stovetop.
– Slow Cooker: Sauté onion and garlic in a pan, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
– Stovetop: In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic, then add the chicken and broth. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked. Shred and return to the pot.
Both methods work well for this recipe.
What toppings work best for chicken tortilla soup?
Toppings make the soup fun and tasty. Here are some great options:
– Crispy tortilla chips: For crunch and flavor.
– Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess.
– Diced avocado: A fresh and creamy addition.
– Fresh cilantro: For a burst of flavor.
– Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the taste.
Mix and match these toppings for your perfect bowl.
How long will leftovers keep?
Leftovers are great for meal prep!
– Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
– Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2-3 months.
Make sure to cool the soup before storing.
– Full Recipe for future reference
You now have all the details to make a tasty Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, helpful tips, tasty variations, and smart storage ideas. This soup is not just easy to make; it’s also great for family meals or quick lunches. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy making and sharing this dish with loved ones. You’ll love how simple and delicious it can be!
