Chicken Tortilla Soup, or Sopa de Tortilla, is a classic Mexican comfort dish that dates back to rural kitchens where leftover tortillas were fried and added to broth to stretch meals. It reflects Mexico’s resourceful tradition of turning simple pantry staples into flavorful soups.

In central Mexico the soup often features a tomato‑based broth with roasted chilies, while coastal versions may add seafood or use a lighter broth. Some regions garnish with queso fresco, radish slices, or a drizzle of crema instead of cheddar.

It is typically served hot in deep bowls, topped with fried tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Side dishes like warm corn tortillas or a simple salad often accompany the soup.

The soup is popular at family gatherings, especially during cooler evenings, and is a staple at Día de los Muertos and holiday brunches because it is hearty yet easy to prepare in large batches.

It exemplifies Mexican cuisine’s emphasis on layered flavors—combining aromatics, chilies, citrus, and fresh herbs—and showcases the cultural practice of using tortillas as a thickening and textural element.

Authentic ingredients include chicken broth, fresh tomatoes, dried chilies, corn tortillas, queso fresco, and cilantro. Substitutes such as rotisserie chicken, canned diced tomatoes, or cheddar cheese work well for home cooks without compromising flavor.

Serve it alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, fresh guacamole, or a simple side of quesadillas. A crisp green salad with lime dressing also balances the soup’s richness.

Common errors include burning the garlic, over‑cooking the shredded chicken, and adding too much lemon juice which can make the soup overly acidic. Follow the sauté timing and balance acidity with honey as shown.

The soup is ready when the vegetables are tender, the broth is fragrant, and the flavors have melded after a 10‑12 minute simmer. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt, pepper, or honey as needed.

The YouTube channel Mayra Wendolyne focuses on approachable, health‑conscious home cooking, often featuring quick meals, weight‑loss friendly recipes, and tips for using pantry staples to create flavorful dishes.