Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving up a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual get-together, this flavorful soup is a crowd-pleaser. With its rich and zesty ingredients, it’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare in your Instant Pot. Load it up with your favorite toppings for a hearty meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful: Packed with spices and fresh ingredients, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Customizable: Top with your favorite garnishes like avocado, cheese, or tortilla chips to make it your own.
• Healthy Option: A nutritious choice that combines lean protein and fiber-rich beans.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in the Instant Pot.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Cooks food quickly while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for prepping fresh vegetables and proteins safely and efficiently.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavor profiles.

Ingredients

This delicious Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is easy to make and full of flavor. Load it up with toppings for a healthy one pot dinner!

For the Soup Base

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 ounce can mild fire roasted diced green chiles
• 14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 15 ounces red enchilada sauce
• 1-2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 15 ounce can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth

For the Protein

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast

For Added Flavor

• 1 cup canned or frozen corn (drained if canned)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

For Serving

• lime wedges
• crumbled tortilla chips or tortilla strips
• sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• shredded cheese
• avocado

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Add olive oil to the Instant Pot insert and turn on the sauté function.
1. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened—about 3 minutes.
2. Turn off the Instant Pot and stir in the minced garlic.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to the pot:
1. Diced green chiles,
2. Fire roasted diced tomatoes,
3. Enchilada sauce,
4. Chili powder,
5. Cumin,
6. Rinsed black beans,
7. Chicken broth.

Stir well, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, then nestle in the chicken breast.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Place the lid on and ensure it’s set to closed position. Move the steam valve to sealing position.
1. Set the Instant Pot to manual/pressure cook on high pressure for 9 minutes.
2. It will take about 20 minutes to reach pressure before cooking begins.

Step 4: Release Pressure

When cooking time is complete:
1. Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes—do not touch anything during this time.
2. After 10 minutes, carefully switch the steam valve to venting position using a spoon.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Add Corn

Once the float valve drops:
1. Carefully remove the lid.
2. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for a few minutes.
3. Stir corn into the soup in the Instant Pot, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes while shredding chicken.

Step 6: Final Touches

Return shredded chicken back to the pot.
1. Season soup with salt and pepper according to taste.
2. Serve hot with desired toppings like lime wedges, tortilla chips, sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado.

Enjoy this delightful Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup that’s perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only hearty but also highly customizable. You can elevate this dish by adding various toppings and sides to suit your taste buds.

Topping Ideas

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Crumbled Tortilla Chips: These add a delightful crunch and enhance the texture of the soup.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of either provides creaminess and balances out the spice.
• Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese on top offers richness; consider cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a buttery texture that pairs well with the spices.

Garnishing Options

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness; sprinkle generously before serving.
• Chopped Green Onions: These lend a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch when scattered on top.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Base: Always sauté your onions and garlic first. This step enhances the overall flavor of the soup significantly.
• Bold Seasonings: Don’t be shy with spices like chili powder and cumin. Adjust them based on your heat preference for optimal taste.
• Bold Cooking Time: Make sure to set the right cooking time in your Instant Pot. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, while undercooking may leave it tough.
• Bold Texture: Add corn towards the end of cooking for a pop of sweetness and texture that complements the other ingredients.
• Bold Adjustments: Taste before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: This sweet, fluffy bread is perfect for soaking up the soup’s delicious broth.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices, this rice adds an excellent carb boost alongside your soup.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip provides additional flavors that complement the spicy notes of the soup.
4. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled tortillas make for a cheesy side that’s easy to prepare and pairs well with soup.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa offer a perfect appetizer before diving into the main dish.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with citrus dressing can balance out the rich flavors of the soup wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind for the best results.

• Ignoring the sauté step – Skipping this crucial step can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Always sauté your onions and garlic to enhance the soup’s taste.
• Overfilling the pot – Filling your Instant Pot beyond its maximum capacity can cause issues with pressure cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe for best results.
• Not seasoning properly – A bland soup is a common pitfall. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for a burst of flavor.
• Forgetting to shred the chicken – Leaving chicken breasts whole in the soup can lead to an uneven texture. Shred the chicken before serving for a better mouthfeel and flavor distribution.
• Using high-sodium broth – This can make your soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over seasoning.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• item Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, about 2-3 minutes total.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful one-pot meal made with chicken, beans, spices, and topped with crunchy tortilla strips.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup?

The total time is about 50 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes! You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out proteins according to your preference.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free tortilla chips and enchilada sauce, this soup can be gluten-free.

How do I store leftover Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it for 2-3 months.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. It’s perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Give it a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that’s sure to please!

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