Make Mcalister’s famous Chicken Tortilla Soup at home with this easy, step-by-step recipe
Craving Mcalister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You’re in luck! This copycat recipe brings the creamy, spicy goodness of your favorite restaurant right to your kitchen. With tender chicken, a vibrant blend of spices, and a generous helping of tortilla strips, this soup is the perfect comfort meal for chilly evenings or a light lunch.
Get ready to savor every spoonful of this flavorful soup. It’s easy to make and even easier to devour!
Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Card
Serves: 6-8 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
This Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is a delicious and authentic take on the popular restaurant favorite. Made with tender chicken, flavorful tortillas, and a rich, spicy broth, this soup is sure to become a staple in your household.
Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml / 8 oz)
Nutrition Information: (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 15g
Ingredients for Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
To make an authentic and delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup, gather these essential ingredients. This recipe is carefully crafted to replicate the flavors of Mcalister’s favorite dish.
The following ingredients are necessary for the soup base and tortilla strips:
- 1 kg / 2.2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 medium onions, diced (250 g / 1 cup)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced (15 g / 0.5 oz)
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced (300 g / 1.5 cups)
- 4 cups / 1 L chicken broth
- 1 can (140 g / 5 oz) of diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8-10 corn tortillas (120 g / 4.3 oz), cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) olive oil
- 240 g / 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
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Optional ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (60 g / 2.1 oz) chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced, for extra heat
- 1 avocado, diced, for creamy texture
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ready to dive into a bowl of comforting, flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup? Follow these simple steps to recreate the beloved Mcalister’s recipe in your own kitchen.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
- Build the Flavor Base: Stir in 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Chicken: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Add 2 cups cooked shredded chicken and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer and Season: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir in 1/2 cup chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast the Tortilla Strips: While the soup simmers, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 6 corn tortillas, cut into strips, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous portion of crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced avocado (optional). Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Best Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
Take your Chicken Tortilla Soup to the next level with these expert tips and tricks.
Customize to Your Taste
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra kick of heat.
- Get creative with toppings: Offer a variety of options like shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips.
- Make it a meal: Add some crusty bread or serve with a side salad for a satisfying meal.
Thicken It Up
- Use a roux: Mix equal parts flour and butter or oil to create a smooth, creamy thickener.
- Try cornstarch: Whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add to the soup for a quick thickening agent.
- Simmer longer: Let the soup simmer for an extra 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken naturally.
Enhance the Flavor
- Use high-quality chicken broth: A rich, flavorful broth is the foundation of a great soup.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook the chicken until it’s just done, then shred or chop it to prevent it from becoming tough and dry.
- Acidity balance: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to balance the flavors and brighten the soup.
Substitutions and Alternatives for Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
To accommodate various dietary needs and preferences, several ingredients in Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup can be substituted or modified.
Chicken and Protein
- Replace 450g / 1 lb chicken breast with 450g / 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Use 240g / 1 cup cooked black beans or pinto beans as a vegetarian alternative to 115g / 4 oz chicken.
Spices and Flavorings
- Substitute 2.5ml / 1/2 tsp ground cumin with 2.5ml / 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Replace 1.25ml / 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper with 1.25ml / 1/4 tsp diced jalapeño for an extra kick.
When making substitutions, adjust the amount of chicken broth (approximately 1L / 4 cups) and cooking time (20-25 minutes at 190°C / 375°F) as needed to achieve the desired consistency and flavor.
Delicious Variations on Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
This copycat recipe is a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few variations to keep your Chicken Tortilla Soup exciting:
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Spicy Southwestern
Add a kick with diced jalapeños (about 1, or more to taste) and a sprinkle of chipotle powder (1/2 teaspoon) to the soup base. Top with pickled jalapeños and a dollop of sour cream or crema fresca for extra heat and tang.
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Creamy Chipotle
Blend a spoonful of adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers into the soup for a smoky, slightly spicy flavor. Stir in 120 ml (1/2 cup) of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving for a rich and creamy texture.
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Tropical Twist
Embrace the sunshine with diced mango (about 1 cup) and a squeeze of lime juice (1 tablespoon) added to the finished soup. Garnish with chopped cilantro and toasted coconut flakes.
Remember, these are just suggestions! Experiment with your favorite flavors and toppings to create your own unique version of Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Storing and Reheating Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
Proper storage and reheating techniques are crucial to maintaining the flavor and safety of your Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Short-Term Storage
For up to 3 days, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator at a temperature below 5°C (40°F). Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking for optimal flavor and safety.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freezing and Reheating
For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags. When reheating, ensure the soup reaches a minimum temperature of 74°C (165°F) to prevent foodborne illness.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Reheat the soup in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 74°C (165°F).
By following these storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy your delicious Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup for days to come.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
Even with a reliable recipe, issues can arise when making Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup. Fortunately, most problems are easy to fix with a few simple adjustments.
Common Problems and Solutions
The following are some common issues that may occur when making this soup, along with their corresponding solutions:
- Thickness issues: If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth (240 ml / 1 cup) or water (120 ml / 0.5 cup). If it’s too thin, simmer it over low heat (165°C / 325°F) for 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Flavor issues: If the soup lacks flavor, add more seasonings like cumin (2.5 ml / 0.5 teaspoon), chili powder (2.5 ml / 0.5 teaspoon), or smoked paprika (1.25 ml / 0.25 teaspoon) to taste.
- Texture issues: If the soup has an unpleasant texture, it may be due to overcooking the chicken or vegetables. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F and the vegetables until they’re tender but still crisp.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you can resolve common issues and enjoy a delicious, authentic Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Nutrition Information for Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
Craving that satisfying bowl of Mcalister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup but watching your intake? Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional facts per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Total Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 20g
This soup is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a filling and nutritious meal option.
Diet Tags: Gluten-Free (GF), Dairy-Free (DF)
- Can I make this soup ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat and serve when needed.
- How can I make the soup spicier or milder to suit my taste? To make the soup spicier, add more diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit the jalapeños and use mild diced tomatoes.
- Can I use store-bought tortilla chips instead of frying my own tortilla strips? While store-bought tortilla chips can be used as a substitute, frying your own tortilla strips will give the soup a fresher and more authentic flavor. If using store-bought, crush them into smaller pieces before adding to the soup.
- What are some optional toppings I can add to customize the soup to my liking? Some optional toppings include diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings to make the soup your own.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
Get answers to your burning questions about this delicious copycat recipe.
Ingredient Substitutions
Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of the soup.
Cooking Methods
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply brown the chicken and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Tortilla Tips
Tortilla Tips
Can I use store-bought tortillas instead of homemade tortilla strips?
Yes, you can use store-bought tortillas instead of homemade tortilla strips. Simply cut them into strips and fry until crispy.
Temperature and Cooking Time
What temperature should I cook the soup at?
Simmer the soup at 180°C (350°F) for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Storage and Reheating
Can I store this soup in the fridge or freezer?
Yes, you can store this soup in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
Key Takeaways for Making the Best Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
To create a truly exceptional Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup, several key factors come into play. First, using high-quality ingredients is crucial, including 450g / 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, 2 medium onions, and 3 cloves of garlic.
- Roasting 2-3 medium tomatoes in the oven at 200°C / 400°F for 15-20 minutes enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.
- Utilizing a mix of chicken broth and water, approximately 1L / 4 cups, ensures the soup has a rich, velvety texture without becoming too thick.
- Adding 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips and fried until crispy, provides a satisfying crunch to the dish.
Additionally, seasoning the soup with a blend of spices, including cumin, paprika, and chili powder, is vital for an authentic flavor profile. By incorporating these elements and techniques, the resulting Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup
Now that you’ve mastered this authentic Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s time to indulge in its rich, velvety goodness. This comforting soup is the perfect remedy for a chilly evening, with tender chicken, crunchy tortilla strips, and a medley of spices that will leave you craving more.
Don’t stop here – explore our collection of soup recipes and discover even more mouth-watering flavors to try. From creamy broths to hearty stews, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to become a soup aficionado and make this Mcalister’s Copycat Chicken Tortilla Soup a staple in your household.
