I've adapted this chicken tortilla soup recipe for home cooks. It's pretty quick and it makes a nice big pot full. It 
can be as spicy as you like it.
NOTE: Canned chipotle chilies in adobo sauce are potent. When I say use only one chili out of the can I mean it....that is unless you are a real heat freak!! Don't use the chipotle at all if you don't like much heat. Do try a bit even if you are sensitive, though, because the chipotle adds a smoky goodness that you would miss otherwise.
can be as spicy as you like it. NOTE: Canned chipotle chilies in adobo sauce are potent. When I say use only one chili out of the can I mean it....that is unless you are a real heat freak!! Don't use the chipotle at all if you don't like much heat. Do try a bit even if you are sensitive, though, because the chipotle adds a smoky goodness that you would miss otherwise.
Recipe By : Sitara
Serving Size : 10 Preparation Time :1:00
Categories : Soups
Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
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1 large onion -- chopped
3 cloves garlic -- minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tub fresh salsa --(you can use grocery store stuff)
1 can diced tomato in juice -- 28 oz can
4 cups chicken stock
1 can kernel corn -- drained
1 can garbanzo beans -- drained
1 can pinto beans -- drained
2 cans black beans -- drained
1 can diced green chilies -- small can
1 Sm bunch fresh cilantro -- chopped
chopped cooked chicken or turkey (great way to use up leftovers)
1 each chipotle pepper in adobo sauce -- OPTIONAL (save the rest of the can to use later)
In a nice big soup pot, saute onion and garlic in oil till soft. Stir in chili powder, oregano, tomatoes, chipotle chili (optional...one chili ONLY), green chilies, salsa and stock.
Bring to a boil then turn down to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in drained vegetables, chicken, cilantro...simmer 10 minutes. Add more stock or water if needed for consistency.
Taste for salt and heat. Add some lime juice if you like.
Serve topped with avocado slices, shredded cheese, chopped green onion, a dollop of sour cream and crushed tortilla chips.
Or make a little buffet of the toppings and let everyone do their own thing.
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If you want to make this soup using fresh chicken, use the boneless chicken thigh meat, cube it small
and saute it along with the onions and garlic and then go from there.
The amount of chicken is up to you, depending on the size of your family. Make the soup the way it is easiest and makes the most sense for you.