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El Pollo Loco Chicken Tortilla Soup

A comforting and hearty dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right into your kitchen, perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 pounds rotisserie chicken Juicy, tender chicken that infuses the soup with unparalleled flavor.
  • 2 quarts homemade or low sodium chicken broth A rich base that adds depth and makes the soup soul-warming.
  • 1 fresh Anaheim or Poblano chile Smoky and slightly spicy, adds a delightful kick.
  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels Provides a lovely contrast in texture.
  • 1 cup fresh pico de gallo Bursting with vibrant flavors of tomatoes and onions.
  • 1 cup diced carrots Enhances the soup’s overall flavor profile.
  • 1 cup diced celery Adds a mild crunch and aromatic essence.
Spices and Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Essential for that authentic taste.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano Fragrant and herbal.
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander seeds Adds a citrusy and nutty note.
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic Offers a mellow yet robust garlic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice Brightens the soup, making every spoonful refreshing.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro This herb provides a burst of freshness.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balancing the flavors.
For Serving
  • Homemade or store-bought corn tortilla strips Crispy and indulgent, they add the perfect crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove the meat from the rotisserie chickens, discard the skin and bones, and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place the shredded chicken into a large pot or Dutch oven.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the 2 quarts of chicken broth, blending it with the chicken.
  2. Slice the Anaheim or Poblano chile in half lengthwise, remove the stem and seeds. Brush the cut sides with oil and broil on a foil-lined baking sheet until blackened.
  3. Place the blackened chile halves in a plastic bag to steam for a few minutes, then peel and dice the chile, and add it to the pot.
  4. Add the corn kernels, pico de gallo, carrots, celery, cumin, oregano, coriander, and granulated garlic to the pot, stir, and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes.
  6. Stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with crispy corn tortilla strips and optional garnishes.
Making Tortilla Strips
  1. Cut 8 corn tortillas into 1/2 inch strips, fry in 2 cups of vegetable oil at 360 degrees until crispy and light brown, about 1-2 minutes. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.

Notes

If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding jalapeños or extra chili powder. Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor. This soup can be a great option for meal prepping.