“Craving comfort food? Try making McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe at home with this easy guide that brings the restaurant taste to your kitchen!”
McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup has a way of warming you up from the inside out with its perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors.
It’s one of those soups you can’t resist, whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or just need a bowl of comfort.
I remember the first time I tried it—sitting in the restaurant, with the steam rising from the bowl and that crunchy tortilla chip topping making every bite a little bit better. Ever since, I’ve wanted to recreate that exact feeling at home.
Well, I’ve got good news! You don’t have to wait for a trip to McAlister’s anymore.
With this easy McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, you can make a chicken tortilla soup copycat right in your kitchen, using simple ingredients like chicken broth, rotisserie chicken, and crispy tortilla chips.
Keep reading to find out how you can make this delicious soup with just a few simple ingredients and a little effort!
What Makes McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Special?
McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup stands out for its delicious mix of flavors and textures.
It’s not just the rich, creamy texture that grabs your attention—it’s the layers of flavor that hit you with every bite.
From the tender shredded chicken to the perfectly spiced broth, everything comes together just right. The cumin adds a warm, earthy note, while the cilantro gives the soup a fresh, vibrant kick.
Here’s why it’s so special:
- Creamy base: The soup’s rich texture makes it feel like comfort in a bowl.
- Crunchy tortilla strips: They add a nice bite that balances the creamy broth.
- Spices: A bit of cumin and other seasonings simmer into the broth for a bold, flavorful kick.
The beauty of this soup is in the details. The way it all simmers together, the fresh cilantro on top, and the crunchy tortilla chips are what make McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup a true crowd-pleaser.
It’s the kind of soup that makes you want to go back for seconds… or thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need for McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup

To make McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup at home, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create that delicious, comforting bowl of soup.
Here’s a list of what you’ll need for the McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe:
- Chicken breast (or use rotisserie chicken for an easy option): If you have the time, cooking chicken breast adds great flavor. But if you’re short on time, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store—super easy and flavorful!
- Canned tomatoes and green chilies: These bring a nice, tangy kick to the soup. The tomatoes add a rich base, while the chilies give it just the right amount of heat.
- Chicken broth: The chicken broth is the base of the soup. You want a good, flavorful broth to tie everything together.
- Onion and garlic: These two are essential for building flavor. They add depth and a savory note to the soup.
- Spices like chili powder (about 2 tablespoons) and cumin: These spices really elevate the soup, giving it a warm, flavorful kick. Please don’t skimp on them!
Optional toppings to add a little extra flavor:
- Fresh cilantro: This will add a burst of freshness when sprinkled on top.
- Lime: A squeeze of lime gives it a zesty, fresh finish.
- Tortilla chips or strips: These add the perfect crunch to balance the creamy broth. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try making your own tortilla recipe to add even more homemade goodness!
If you have any dietary preferences, you can mix things up:
- Change the chicken broth to vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Add sour cream or shredded cheese to make it even creamier.
- If you’re looking for a healthier twist, add some avocado slices on top for a fresh, creamy bite!
Now, you’re ready to get cooking! It’s that easy to get all the ingredients together.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup is easier than you might think. Let me walk you through this McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe step by step.
You’ll see it’s not hard to do, and the end result is totally worth it.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, you need to cook the chicken. You can either boil it, bake it, or even use rotisserie chicken to save time (that’s my favorite shortcut).
If you’re boiling the chicken, just put the chicken breasts in a pot of water, heat it until it boils, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is soft.
For baking, season the chicken with a little salt, pepper, and any spices you like, then bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
Once your chicken is cooked, you’ll want to shred it up. A couple of forks work great for this. Just pull the chicken apart into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a pot, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté your onions and garlic.
Let them cook for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft. Then, add in the chopped peppers (like green bell peppers or mild chilies).
Pro Tip: If you want a little extra kick, throw in some jalapeños. It’ll give your soup a nice spice without going overboard.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in the chicken broth, green chilies, and canned tomatoes.
Add your seasonings—don’t forget the chili powder (about 2 tablespoons for that perfect amount of heat) and cumin. Stir everything together and let it start to heat up.
Tip: Taste the broth at this point and adjust the seasoning. If you want a little more spice, add a pinch of chili powder or cumin.
Step 4: Let the Soup Simmer
Once the soup is all mixed together, turn the heat down and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will come together.
This step is key in creating a rich, delicious flavor that is often praised in the food and beverage industry for its depth.
Tip: While it’s simmering, I like to prep my toppings so everything’s ready when the soup is done.
Step 5: Add the Chicken and Final Touches
Once the soup has simmered to perfection, add your shredded chicken back into the pot. Let it heat through, and then taste again.
If it needs more salt or spice, now’s the time to adjust.
Step 6: Topping the Soup
To serve, scoop the Chicken Tortilla Soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings:
- Tortilla strips or chips for crunch
- A sprinkle of fresh cilantro
- A squeeze of lime juice
Optional: Sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado for a creamy finish
Now, you’ve got yourself a bowl of McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup that’s just like the one from your favorite spot.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Perfecting the McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to make sure your soup turns out just the way you like it every time.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Whether you like your soup mild or extra spicy, it’s easy to adjust the heat.
- For a milder version, skip the jalapeños or use just a little. You can also use less chili powder and cumin.
- For a spicier kick, add more jalapeños, use a hotter variety of chili, or even throw in a dash of hot sauce. Taste as you go to get it just right.
Thickening the Soup
If you want a thicker, richer texture, here’s how:
- After simmering the soup, use a potato masher or fork to mash some of the veggies and beans in the pot. This will naturally thicken the broth.
- You can also add a little cornstarch slurry (mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with some water) and stir it into the soup to make it thicker.
Storing and Freezing Leftovers
The soup keeps well, so don’t be afraid to make extra!
- For leftovers: Allow the soup to cool, then put it in an airtight container and then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Freeze the soup in individual portions. Just let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight and reheat.
Customizing the Recipe
Feel free to make the soup your own:
- For a vegetarian version, leave out the chicken and add more beans or veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach.
- If you want more veggies, you can add carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrients.
With these simple tips, you’ll be able to tweak the McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe to your taste every time!
Serving Ideas and Pairings
When serving your McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, the right sides can really make the meal.
Here are some great ideas to complete your dish:
a). Perfect Sides
- Cornbread: A warm, slightly sweet cornbread goes great with this soup. The texture balances out the smoothness of the soup, and the sweetness complements the spices.
- Salads: A light salad with avocado, lettuce, and a tangy vinaigrette will freshen up the richness of the soup. It’s also a good way to add more veggies to your meal.
- Tortilla Chips: For a little crunch, serve some tortilla chips on the side. You can even crumble them into your soup for an extra crunch!
b). Turning It Into a Full Meal
- Extra Protein: If you’re looking to make this soup more filling, add some extra protein! Shredded cheese, sour cream, or even more chicken can turn it into a heartier meal.
- Toppings: Top the soup with sliced jalapeños, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor. You can also add a spoonful of guacamole to make it feel more like a complete meal.
These simple side ideas and toppings will take your McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe to the next level! Enjoy!
Summary

Making McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup at home is simple, delicious, and incredibly satisfying.
With just a few simple ingredients and these easy steps, you can enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this copycat of McAlister’s Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe from your own kitchen.
It’s the perfect meal for any day, whether you’re craving something delicious or want to wow your guests with your cooking skills.
So, gather your ingredients and give it a try. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to recreate this tasty soup and bring those amazing McAlister flavors straight to your table