McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is a customer favorite for good reason. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with bold flavors. The blend of tender chicken, savory broth, and crispy tortilla strips makes every spoonful satisfying. Making this copycat version at home is simple, budget-friendly, and just as delicious as the restaurant classic. Keep reading to discover how you can bring this warm and hearty soup to your own table.
Introduction: Mcalister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup has earned its place as one of the chain’s most-loved menu items. It strikes the perfect balance between creamy comfort food and bold Southwestern flavors. What makes it special is the combination of tender shredded chicken, a rich tomato-based broth, sweet corn, and just the right hint of spice. Topped with crunchy tortilla strips, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of cheese, it’s a bowl that feels both hearty and refreshing.
The beauty of this mcalister chicken tortilla soup is that it allows you to enjoy the same restaurant-quality taste right at home. It uses simple, everyday ingredients, and you don’t need to be an expert cook to master it. Plus, making it yourself means you can adjust the flavors—spicier, creamier, or even lighter—based on your preference.
Key Ingredients for McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup
To recreate McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup McAlister at home, you’ll need a handful of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a role in giving the soup its signature creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless and skinless, these provide tender shredded meat that absorbs the flavors of the broth.
- Chicken broth: The foundation of the soup. Opt for a low-sodium broth so you can better control the saltiness.
- Onion and garlic: Aromatics that add depth and richness to the base.
- Tomatoes (diced or crushed): Give the broth a tangy, slightly sweet flavor and a vibrant color.
- Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture. You can use canned, frozen, or fresh kernels.
- Black beans (optional): Not always in McAlister’s version, but a great addition if you want extra protein and heartiness.
For Creaminess and Thickness
- Cornstarch slurry: A mix of cornstarch and water helps thicken the soup, creating that smooth, creamy consistency.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: Adds richness and balances the spices.
Seasonings and Spices
- Cumin and chili powder: Classic Southwestern flavors that give the soup warmth and a mild kick.
- Paprika: Adds smokiness and color.
- Salt and pepper: To balance and enhance all the other flavors.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: For a bright, fresh finish.
Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
- Crispy tortilla strips: The signature topping that gives the soup its crunch.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend melts beautifully on top.
- Avocado slices: Creamy and refreshing.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime adds brightness and balances the richness.
- Sour cream: For extra creaminess and tang.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Making McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup at home doesn’t require fancy gadgets. With just a few basic kitchen tools, you can prepare this hearty soup easily and efficiently. Here’s what you’ll need:
Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
The most important tool for this recipe. A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the soup from sticking or burning. It’s perfect for simmering and developing deep flavor.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
You’ll need these for chopping onions, garlic, tomatoes, and prepping the chicken. A sharp knife makes prep work faster and safer.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Essential for stirring the soup as it cooks. A sturdy spoon helps scrape the bottom of the pot and evenly distribute ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to balancing the broth, spices, and creaminess.
Mixing Bowl
Handy for preparing the cornstarch slurry or holding prepped toppings before serving.
Ladle
Makes it easy to serve the soup without spilling, ensuring everyone gets a hearty portion of chicken and toppings.
Optional Equipment
- Blender or Immersion Blender: If you prefer a smoother, creamier base, blend part of the soup before adding toppings.
- Tongs: Useful for handling chicken pieces while cooking or shredding.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making mcalister’s tortilla soup at home is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a flavorful, creamy, and comforting copycat version.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts or thighs lightly with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until lightly golden. This adds extra flavor to the soup. Remove the chicken and set aside—you’ll shred it later.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Stir in diced or crushed tomatoes, corn, and optional black beans. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust spices to your taste—milder if serving kids, spicier if you want more kick. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup and stir well.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slowly pour it into the simmering soup while stirring constantly. Let it cook for 3–5 minutes until the broth thickens slightly.
Step 6: Add Creaminess
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, making sure not to boil, as this could cause the cream to curdle.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of broth. If too thin, let it simmer a little longer.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges, or sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade McAlister’s classic!
Tips for the Perfect Bowl
A good chicken tortilla soup mcalisters recipe is flavorful, creamy, and balanced. These tips will help you take your copycat McAlister’s version from good to unforgettable.
Use Fresh Ingredients When Possible
Canned items are convenient, but fresh vegetables and herbs add brightness. Fresh corn, tomatoes, and cilantro bring out more natural sweetness and aroma.
Don’t Skip the Sear
Lightly browning the chicken before simmering builds a deeper, savory flavor. It also leaves browned bits in the pot that enrich the broth when deglazed.
Adjust Spice to Your Taste
McAlister’s soup has a mild spice level, but you can make it your own. Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce for heat—or keep it mild with just chili powder and cumin.
Balance Creaminess and Broth
The cornstarch slurry thickens the soup, while cream adds richness. If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half or even whole milk instead of heavy cream. For extra indulgence, stir in a little cream cheese.
Use Crispy Toppings for Contrast
The crunch of tortilla strips is key to the experience. Bake or fry them fresh for the best texture. A sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream also adds delicious contrast to the creamy broth.
Add Garnishes Just Before Serving
Avocado, cilantro, and lime juice should be added at the end so they stay fresh and vibrant. This keeps the soup from becoming heavy.
Make It Ahead for Better Flavor
Like many soups, mcalister chicken tortilla soup recipe tastes even better the next day. The flavors meld overnight, so don’t hesitate to make a batch ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions & Toppings
One of the best parts of mcalister’s chicken tortilla soup recipe is how customizable it is. The creamy, flavorful base pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings, allowing you to create the perfect bowl to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to inspire your serving:
Classic McAlister’s Style
- Crispy tortilla strips: The must-have topping. Fry or bake corn tortillas until golden and crunchy.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend melts perfectly over the hot soup.
- Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that balances the creaminess.
Fresh and Zesty Additions
- Avocado slices or cubes: Creamy and cooling, they contrast beautifully with the spices.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the broth and enhances every flavor.
- Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo: Adds juiciness and a touch of acidity.
Extra Creaminess
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop swirled in creates a tangy, smooth finish.
- Cream cheese (whipped in): For an extra indulgent twist.
Protein Boosts
Black beans: Great for a heartier soup.
Grilled shrimp or extra chicken: A fun variation if you want more protein.
Crunch and Spice
- Jalapeño slices (fresh or pickled): Add a spicy kick.
- Crushed tortilla chips: A quick alternative if you don’t have fresh tortilla strips.
- Toasted pumpkin seeds: A unique nutty crunch.
Serving Ideas
Pair with warm cornbread or cheese quesadillas for a filling meal. Serve as a starter before tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas for a Tex-Mex–style dinner. Offer a toppings bar if serving guests—everyone can build their own perfect bowl.
Nutrition Breakdown
max and erma’s chicken tortilla soup is hearty and satisfying, but it’s also lighter than many creamy soups thanks to its broth-based foundation. When you make it at home, you have full control over the ingredients, which means you can keep it indulgent or adjust it to be lighter and healthier. Here’s a look at the approximate nutrition for one serving (about 1 ½ cups, without toppings):
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 300–350
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbohydrates: 25–30g
- Fat: 12–15g
- Fiber: 4–6g
- Sodium: 700–900mg
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used and whether you add toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.)
Health Benefits
- High in protein: The chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and energized.
- Balanced meal: With carbs from corn and beans, fiber from vegetables, and healthy fats from toppings like avocado, it’s a well-rounded dish.
- Customizable nutrition: Use low-sodium broth, light cream, or skip the cheese to reduce calories and salt. Add extra beans and vegetables for more fiber and nutrients.
Ways to Lighten It Up
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for fewer calories. Bake tortilla strips instead of frying to cut down on fat. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more volume and nutrition. Use skinless chicken breast for a leaner protein choice.
Storage and Reheating Guide
One of the best things about mcalisters chicken tortilla soup recipe is that it stores well and tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly so it keeps its texture and taste.
Storing in the Refrigerator
Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. Keep toppings like tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese separate so they stay fresh and crunchy.
Freezing for Later
This soup freezes well, especially without dairy. If you know you’ll freeze it, leave out the cream and add it when reheating. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating on the Stovetop
Pour the soup into a pot and warm over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through (about 8–10 minutes). If it has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen. Stir in the cream at this stage if you froze it without dairy.
Reheating in the Microwave
Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a lid or plate. Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add toppings only after reheating to keep them crisp and fresh.
Keeping Toppings Fresh
- Tortilla strips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days.
- Avocado: Slice fresh each time before serving.
- Cheese and sour cream: Add just before eating.
Conclusion
copycat mcalisters chicken tortilla soup is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, bringing the beloved restaurant classic right to your kitchen. This copycat recipe is easy to make, adaptable to your taste, and just as satisfying as the original. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and crunchy toppings, every spoonful delivers warmth and goodness. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or making a big batch to share, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home.
FAQS
Mcalister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat medium stockpot over medium heat. When stockpot is hot, add 2 tablespoons butter to pot. Heat butter, swirling pot occasionally to distribute butter evenly around bottom of pot, until butter is melted.
- Add ½ cup minced yellow onion and 2 teaspoons minced garlic to pot with melted butter. Sauté until onion and garlic have softened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Once onion and garlic are soft, add 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 14.5-ounce can crushed tomatoes, and 3 ½ cups chicken broth to stockpot. Stir to incorporate ingredients. Let mixture simmer while preparing cornstarch slurry.
- Add ½ cup chicken broth and ¼ cup cornstarch to small mixing bowl. Whisk until fully incorporated, then pour slurry mixture into stockpot. Stir to incorporate.
- Increase heat under stockpot to medium-high. Bring mixture to boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 5 to 10 minutes, or until broth is slightly thickened.
- Move stockpot to cool stovetop burner. Let mixture cool slightly, then add 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup shredded Mexican-style cheese blend. Stir until heavy cream is incorporated and shredded cheese has melted.
- Once cheese has melted, return stockpot to heat. Add 1 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken condensed soup, 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 4-ounce can chopped green chiles, ½ tablespoon chopped cilantro, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir until ingredients are fully incorporated, then let mixture simmer 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, ladle soup into serving bowls. Top with chopped green onions and serve warm with white corn tortilla chips if desired.