There’s something truly magical about Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup. One sip transports you to a world of bold, creamy flavors brought to life by tender chicken, hearty beans, and the perfect blend of spices.
But you don’t have to wait in line (or in the drive-thru) to enjoy this soul-warming classic. With this recipe guide, we’ll show you how to make Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup from scratch, right in the comfort of your kitchen.
This recipe is your chance to bring those cozy, rich flavors everyone loves right into your own kitchen. Plus, we’ve got some fun serving tips, smart storage hacks, and pro tips to help you nail it.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just someone who can’t get enough of Chick-fil-A’s comfort food, this guide has you covered!
What Is Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup and Why Is It Special?
Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup isn’t your average soup. It’s loaded with shredded chicken, black beans, navy beans, sweet corn, and a creamy, slightly spicy broth that’s full of Southwest flavor.
Top it off with crunchy tortilla strips, and you’ve got a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
What makes it stand out? The balance. It’s hearty, but not overly heavy. It’s creamy, but with a gentle kick of spice that lingers long after each spoonful. Each ingredient shines on its own yet contributes to a symphony of flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that warms both your body and your soul.
Ingredients Needed for Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
To recreate this velvety bowl of comfort, here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken (leftovers or a rotisserie chicken work great!)
- Beans: 1 can of navy beans and 1 can of black beans (rinsed and drained)
- Corn: 1 cup of sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Chicken broth: 3 cups for a flavorful base
- Tomato and green chilies: 1 cup (or use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies like Rotel)
Creamy Element
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: 1 cup
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Thickener
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or cornstarch
Optional Toppings
- Tortilla strips
- Shredded cheese
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream
This list represents the building blocks of the dish, but feel free to add your personal twists—jalapeños or poblano peppers are fantastic for those who crave more heat!
Nutritional Information of Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
While specific values may vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands, here’s the approximate breakdown per serving (1 cup):
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~260 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
| Sodium | 1000mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
This detailed table provides an easy reference for understanding the nutritional content of Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup, helping you make informed choices while enjoying its hearty, comforting flavors.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need fancy gadgets to make this soup. Here’s a quick list of kitchen essentials:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A wooden spoon or ladle for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A cutting board and knife
- Optional: immersion blender (for a smoother soup consistency)
With just these basics, you’re ready to bring this recipe to life!
Recipe for Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for—here’s how to make this comforting classic.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Get all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. Chop the veggies (onions, garlic, bell peppers) into small pieces. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized bits. Drain and rinse canned beans or corn. Prepping everything first makes the soup quick and easy to put together!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a drizzle of oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, releasing a fragrant aroma. This step is crucial because it creates a flavorful base for the soup to build upon.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Vegetables
Add chicken broth to the pot and scrape any bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Then, toss in the bell peppers, beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Mix well and season with cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors combine.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
Gently add the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to evenly distribute it in the soup. At this stage, you’ll notice the soup becoming more hearty and wholesome. Allow the chicken to warm through and absorb the flavors of the broth and spices, making it tender and moist throughout.
Step 5: Adjust Texture and Seasoning
If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot—just be careful not to blend it completely to keep those satisfying chunks. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. This step ensures every spoonful bursts with the perfect balance of flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the soup has simmered and reached your desired consistency, ladle it into bowls and garnish with toppings like crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
These finishing touches elevate the dish, making it as delightful to present as it is to eat. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal.
Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Equipment
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A wooden spoon or ladle for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A cutting board and knife
- Optional: immersion blender (for a smoother soup consistency)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken leftovers or a rotisserie chicken work great!
- Beans: 1 can of navy beans and 1 can of black beans rinsed and drained
- Corn: 1 cup of sweet corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
- Chicken broth: 3 cups for a flavorful base
- Tomato and green chilies: 1 cup or use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies like Rotel
Creamy Element
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: 1 cup
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Thickener
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or cornstarch
Optional Toppings
- Tortilla strips
- Shredded cheese
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Get all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. Chop the veggies (onions, garlic, bell peppers) into small pieces. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized bits. Drain and rinse canned beans or corn. Prepping everything first makes the soup quick and easy to put together!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat a drizzle of oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, releasing a fragrant aroma. This step is crucial because it creates a flavorful base for the soup to build upon.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Vegetables
- Add chicken broth to the pot and scrape any bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Then, toss in the bell peppers, beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Mix well and season with cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors combine.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
- Gently add the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to evenly distribute it in the soup. At this stage, you’ll notice the soup becoming more hearty and wholesome. Allow the chicken to warm through and absorb the flavors of the broth and spices, making it tender and moist throughout.
Step 5: Adjust Texture and Seasoning
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot—just be careful not to blend it completely to keep those satisfying chunks. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. This step ensures every spoonful bursts with the perfect balance of flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Once the soup has simmered and reached your desired consistency, ladle it into bowls and garnish with toppings like crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Notes
Creative Ways to Serve Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
Besides the classic bowl-and-spoon option, there are countless ways to enjoy this soup. Here are a few suggestions:
- Soup Bar: Set up a soup bar with toppings like avocado, lettuce, jalapeños, lime, and queso fresco. Let guests customize their bowls!
- Bread Bowl Bliss: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a comforting presentation that’s as delicious as it is unique. The slightly crispy, chewy bread pairs perfectly with the creamy, flavorful soup.
- Taco Twist: Use the soup as a filling for soft or crispy taco shells. Add toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of sour cream for a creative way to transform it into a handheld meal.
- Nacho Upgrade: Pour the soup over a plate of tortilla chips to create a messy, warm nacho dish that’s absolutely irresistible. Top it off with melted cheese and a dollop of guacamole.
- Rice Bowl Fusion: Serve the soup over a bed of rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. Sprinkle with green onions or a splash of hot sauce for extra flair.
Storage Suggestions
This soup is kept beautifully for meal prep. Here are some tips:
- Fridge: Store the cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat.
- Freezer: Freeze single servings of the soup in containers with lids for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight before heating and eating.
Tips for Making Perfect Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup
I know you’re excited to get started on this recipe, so here are some tips to help guide you towards a delicious batch of soup:
- Use Cooked Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken or leftovers. It’s tender, flavorful, and ready to go!
- Add Toppings: Toppings are a must! They add flavor, texture, and let everyone customize their bowl.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and tweak the seasoning to fit your taste. Make it your own!
- Go Vegetarian/Vegan: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth for a plant-based option.
- Add Spice: Want a kick? Mix in hot sauce or extra chili powder.
Now that you have all the information and tips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking. This Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s comforting, delicious, and easy to make—what more could you ask for?
Bring Chick-fil-A’s Magic to Your Kitchen
Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a classic for a reason—it’s cozy, packed with flavor, and so easy to make your own. With this recipe, you can whip up a version that’s perfect for your taste buds. Whether it’s just for you or you’re serving up bowls to friends and family, don’t be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds (or thirds!).
Get those pots simmering and make this recipe your own. There’s no better taste of home than a warm, satisfying bowl of soup lovingly prepared from scratch.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure! Just swap the meat with your favorite plant-based options like mushrooms, lentils, or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of meat stock. It will still taste warm and delicious!
How long does it take to make this soup?
The soup usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour to prepare, depending on your chopping and cooking pace.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, though freshly shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken is recommended for the best flavor.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add any fresh herbs or final seasonings just before serving for the best flavor.
What vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can add a variety of vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. Fresh or frozen options work well and can be chosen based on your personal taste or what’s in season.
How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, try blending a portion of it and mixing it back in, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water. You could also mash some cooked potatoes or beans into the soup for a heartier texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used, such as broth and seasonings, are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels to ensure compliance.
