McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Craving the bold, zesty flavors of McAlister’s Deli at home? This McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe brings the signature taste you love straight to your kitchen. Inspired by the beloved restaurant classic, this soup delivers the same comforting warmth and Southwest-inspired flavor that makes McAlister’s famous.

This copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe is loaded with tender shredded chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, hearty black beans, and a balanced blend of spices. Every spoonful of this chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s recipe captures the rich, savory depth and satisfying texture that fans expect from the original.

Whether you’re recreating chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s style for a cozy dinner or serving guests, this McAlister’s deli chicken tortilla soup is a reliable crowd-pleaser. It’s an easy, flavorful way to enjoy a restaurant favorite without leaving home.

What is McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup and How Does It Taste?

McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup is a signature menu item from McAlister’s Deli, renowned for its rich, savory broth infused with smoky Southwestern flavors. This beloved soup features a tomato-based broth seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and paprika, creating a warm, slightly spicy base.

The chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s deli recipe combines tender, shredded chicken breast with fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, sweet corn, and green chiles for textural variety and depth. Fresh lime juice and cilantro brighten the flavors, while crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and cool sour cream provide the perfect finishing touches.

The taste is a harmonious blend of smoky, tangy, and mildly spicy notes with a comforting heartiness that makes this McAlister’s deli chicken tortilla soup an unforgettable bowl of warmth.

McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Ingredients

For the Chicken Tortilla Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium white onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce (passata)
• 15 ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can black beans, drained
• 7 ounce can diced green chiles
• 1½ cups frozen corn (or canned)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup freshly chopped cilantro
• ¼ cup lime juice

For Serving:

• 3 cups tortilla strips or tortilla chips
• 2 medium avocados, diced
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream

Kitchen Utensils Needed

1. Large pot or Dutch oven
2. Cutting board
3. Sharp knife
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Can opener
7. Two forks (for shredding chicken)
8. Skillet (for homemade tortilla strips)
9. Ladle
10. Serving bowls

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 6-8 servings

Copycat McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced white onion and diced red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Toast the Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for about 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant. This toasting process releases essential oils and deepens the flavor profile of your chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s recipe.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth. Add the 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, drained black beans, undrained green chiles, and corn. These ingredients give the copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe its signature texture and flavor.

Step 6: Simmer and Season

Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

Remove from heat or just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The citrus and herbs brighten the entire dish.

Step 8: Prepare Tortilla Strips (Optional)

Heat about 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add one corn tortilla at a time and fry for about 30 seconds per side, until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and cut into strips using a knife or pizza cutter while still warm. Alternatively, use store-bought tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for convenience.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle the hot chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s deli recipe into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, diced fresh avocado, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and crispy tortilla strips. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Spice Level Variations

Adjust the heat intensity of your McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup by adding jalapeños, serrano peppers, or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who love extra kick. For a milder version perfect for children, reduce the chili powder by half and omit the green chiles. You can also serve hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to customize their spice level.

2. Protein Alternatives

While the traditional chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s recipe uses chicken breast, you can substitute with rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut, or try using chicken thighs for richer, more succulent meat. For a different protein altogether, shredded turkey, lean ground beef, or even plant-based chicken alternatives work wonderfully in this versatile soup base.

3. Cheese Variations

Beyond Monterey Jack, experiment with shredded cheddar cheese, pepper jack for added heat, crumbled queso fresco for authentic Mexican flair, or a Mexican cheese blend. Each cheese variety brings its own unique flavor profile to complement the Southwestern seasonings in this copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe.

4. Additional Toppings Bar

Create a toppings station for family gatherings with diced red onions, sliced radishes, pickled jalapeños, fresh lime wedges, extra cilantro, sliced green onions, and crushed red pepper flakes. This interactive approach lets everyone build their perfect bowl of McAlister’s deli chicken tortilla soup.

5. Vegetable Additions

Enhance the nutritional value by stirring in diced zucchini, chopped kale, or spinach during the final simmering stage. Roasted poblano peppers add a smoky depth, while diced sweet potatoes create a heartier, more filling version of this chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s style.

6. Pairing Suggestions

Serve your chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s deli recipe alongside warm cornbread, quesadillas, a fresh Mexican Caesar salad, or chips with guacamole. For beverages, complement the soup with Mexican beer, margaritas, horchata, or fresh limeade to create a complete Southwestern dining experience.

7. Bowl Presentation

Elevate your presentation by serving the soup in bread bowls, tortilla bowls made from baked flour tortillas shaped in oven-safe bowls, or rustic ceramic crocks. Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim and a sprig of fresh cilantro for restaurant-worthy visual appeal that honors the original McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup presentation.

Essential Tips for Perfect Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. Toast Your Spices Properly

The key to achieving authentic McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup flavor lies in properly toasting the spices. When you add garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the sautéed vegetables, stir constantly for the full 60 seconds. This technique, called blooming, releases aromatic compounds and essential oils that create depth. Don’t skip this step or rush it, as raw spices can taste harsh and one-dimensional in the finished soup.

2. Use Quality Chicken Broth

The broth forms the foundation of your copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe, so choose wisely. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock to control salt levels. For extra richness, replace one cup of broth with one cup of vegetable broth or add a chicken bouillon cube. The quality of your broth directly impacts the final taste, making it worth investing in a premium brand.

3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooked chicken becomes dry and stringy, detracting from the tender texture that makes chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s recipe so appealing. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F. Remove the chicken immediately when it hits this temperature, as it will continue cooking slightly while resting. If using chicken thighs instead of breasts, they’re more forgiving and remain juicy even if slightly overcooked.

4. Layer Your Flavors

Building flavors in stages creates complexity in your McAlister’s deli chicken tortilla soup. Start with sautéed aromatics, add toasted spices, then incorporate the liquid and proteins, followed by canned goods, and finally fresh herbs and citrus. This layering technique ensures each ingredient contributes its unique profile rather than muddling together into a one-note soup.

5. Fresh Lime Juice is Non-Negotiable

Bottled lime juice cannot replicate the bright, zesty acidity that fresh lime juice provides in this chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s deli recipe. The citrus cuts through the richness, balances the tomatoes’ acidity, and awakens all the other flavors. Always add lime juice at the very end, off heat, to preserve its fresh, vibrant taste. Roll the limes firmly on your counter before juicing to extract maximum juice.

6. Control the Soup Consistency

If your copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe becomes too thick, thin it with additional chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Remember that the soup will thicken slightly as it cools and the beans and corn absorb liquid.

7. Make Crispy Tortilla Strips

Soggy tortilla strips ruin an otherwise perfect bowl of chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s style. If frying fresh tortillas, ensure your oil is hot enough (test with a small piece-it should sizzle immediately) and work in batches to avoid crowding. Alternatively, bake tortilla strips at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, for an oil-free option. Season them with salt immediately after cooking for the most authentic McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup experience.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep toppings separate to maintain their freshness and texture. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency.

Common Queries and FAQs

Can I make this copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except cilantro and lime juice to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken in the final hour, then stir in cilantro and lime juice before serving.

Is McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup spicy?

The original McAlister’s deli chicken tortilla soup has a mild to medium heat level. This recipe replicates that balanced spice, but you can adjust the chili powder and add jalapeños for more heat or reduce spices for a milder version.

Can I freeze chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s recipe?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Add fresh toppings when serving for the best texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for fire-roasted tomatoes?

Regular diced tomatoes work in a pinch, though you’ll lose some smoky depth. To compensate, add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to your chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s deli recipe.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace chicken with extra beans (pinto or kidney beans work well), use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add diced zucchini or mushrooms for texture. The Southwestern seasonings still deliver authentic McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup flavor.

Why does my soup taste bland?

Under seasoning is common when making copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe. Always taste before serving and adjust salt, add extra lime juice for brightness, or stir in a bit more chili powder and cumin to boost flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saver. Skip the chicken-cooking step, add the broth and vegetables, then stir in 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken during step 5. This reduces cooking time by about 20 minutes.

What type of tortillas work best for strips?

Corn tortillas provide the most authentic texture for chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s style, creating sturdy, crispy strips. Flour tortillas work too but tend to be softer. Choose what matches your preference and dietary needs.

This copycat McAlister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe brings the beloved restaurant classic straight to your kitchen with authentic flavors and satisfying comfort. With its perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, Southwestern spices, and fresh toppings, this chicken tortilla soup McAlister’s deli recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or impressing guests at a gathering, this McAlister’s deli chicken tortilla soup will become a regular rotation in your recipe collection. Enjoy every flavorful, warming spoonful!

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