Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect meal for any occasion, from a relaxed family dinner to an elegant evening affair. It’s simple to make and can be dressed up or down depending on your needs.
Here, we’ll explore 15 delicious dishes that pair perfectly with this classic soup. From crunchy sides to hearty mains, these recipes will round out your meal and leave everyone satisfied.
Let’s get cooking!
Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Chicken Tortilla Soup– By Chef Natalie
To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Chicken Tortilla Soup!
| Side Dish | Why It Goes Well with Chicken Tortilla Soup |
|---|---|
| Baked Tortilla Chips | Baked tortilla chips are a classic accompaniment to chicken tortilla soup. Their crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch to the soup, and they can be used for scooping up the soup or as a topping for added texture and flavor. |
| Sweet Cornbread | Sweet cornbread provides a sweet and savory complement to the flavors of chicken tortilla soup. Its crumbly texture and slightly sweet taste offer a delightful contrast to the spicy and tangy soup. |
| Guacamole | Guacamole adds a creamy and flavorful element to the meal. Its rich and tangy flavors complement the chicken tortilla soup, and the smooth texture provides a refreshing balance to the soup’s heat. |
| Pico De Gallo | Pico de gallo is a fresh and vibrant salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds a burst of freshness and tanginess to the soup, enhancing its flavors and providing a crunchy texture. |
| Charro Beans | Charro beans are a traditional Mexican bean dish made with pinto beans, bacon, and spices. They offer a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the chicken tortilla soup, adding depth and protein to the meal. |
| Spanish Rice | Spanish rice, also known as Mexican rice, is a flavorful and aromatic side dish. Its combination of rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices complements the soup’s flavors and adds a satisfying element to the meal. |
| Refried Beans | Refried beans are a creamy and savory side dish that pairs well with chicken tortilla soup. Their smooth texture and rich flavors provide a comforting and filling component to the meal. |
| Breaded Fried Plantains | Breaded fried plantains add a sweet and crispy element to the soup. Their caramelized flavors and crunchy texture provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup, enhancing the overall dining experience. |
| Queso Fresco | Queso fresco is a mild and crumbly Mexican cheese that complements the flavors of the chicken tortilla soup. Its creamy and slightly salty taste adds a rich and cheesy element to the meal. |
| Slow-Cooked Carnitas | Slow-cooked carnitas, tender and flavorful shredded pork, pairs well with the soup. Its succulent and savory taste adds a protein-rich component to the meal and complements the soup’s flavors. |
| Grilled Chicken Fajitas | Grilled chicken fajitas offer a delicious and protein-packed side dish for chicken tortilla soup. The tender and seasoned chicken, along with the sautéed vegetables, adds a satisfying and well-rounded element to the meal. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, provide a nutritious and flavorful side dish for chicken tortilla soup. Their caramelized flavors and tender texture complement the soup’s robust flavors. |
| Roasted Corn Salad | Roasted corn salad adds a sweet and smoky element to the meal. Its charred flavors and crunchy texture provide a refreshing contrast to the soup, enhancing the overall taste and dining experience. |
| Mexican Street Corn | Mexican street corn, or elote, is a popular and flavorful side dish. The grilled corn, topped with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, adds a tangy and savory element to the soup. |
| Creamy Avocado Salad | Creamy avocado salad offers a refreshing and creamy side dish for |
1. Baked Tortilla Chips
The first thing to consider when serving a bowl of chicken tortilla soup is what side dish to accompany it.
Baked tortilla chips are the perfect accompaniment, providing a crunchy, savory addition to the soup’s creamy texture and flavor.
To make your own baked tortilla chips, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut corn tortillas into thin strips and spread them in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add some oil, salt, and pepper, then bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
These chips provide the ideal dipping vehicle for chicken tortilla soup. They add a satisfying crunchiness that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the soup.
Serve up these chips for an enjoyable snack or as a perfect side to your favorite soup!
2. Sweet Cornbread
Sweet Cornbread is a classic accompaniment to chicken tortilla soup, and an easy way to bring a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Perfectly crumbly, with a subtle hint of honey, it’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
Here’s how to make it:
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
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In a large bowl, stir together 1 cup cornmeal, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 2 tablespoons sugar.
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In a separate bowl whisk together 1 egg, 3 tablespoons melted butter and 1/2 cup milk until combined.
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Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined – don’t over mix!
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Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or cast iron skillet with butter or cooking spray then pour in batter.
Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through in center when tested with a toothpick.
Let cool before cutting into squares and serving alongside your chicken tortilla soup for the perfect combination of flavors!
Sweet cornbread is always sure to please – give it a try tonight!
3. Guacamole
To complement the delicious chicken tortilla soup, a dish of creamy guacamole is sure to tantalize the taste buds.
This classic Mexican dip is made with ripe avocados, lime juice, onion and cilantro.
A hint of garlic adds an extra layer of flavor to this already delectable dish.
When preparing guacamole, it’s important to use perfectly ripe avocados.
If they are too soft then they will be mushy and lack flavor; if they are too hard then they will not mash properly when mixed with the other ingredients.
Look for avocados that yield slightly when you squeeze them gently but remain firm overall.
To make a truly exceptional guacamole, try adding fresh tomatoes, jalapeños or even mangoes for a sweeter twist!
These additional ingredients bring out the flavors of the avocado and provide a delightful texture to balance out the smoothness of the dip.
Serve alongside some warm tortilla chips for a tasty snack or side dish that enhances any meal.
4. Pico De Gallo
The vibrant colors of a freshly made pico de gallo draw the eye. Its juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, and tart lime juice work together in a perfect harmony. It’s the ideal accompaniment to any dish – but especially chicken tortilla soup.
Making pico de gallo is surprisingly simple. All you need are four ingredients: tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
Dice them all up until they’re in small pieces and combine in a bowl. Then season with salt to taste and your homemade pico de gallo is ready to be served!
Pairing it with chicken tortilla soup will bring out the best of both flavors.
The deep earthiness of the soup will be lifted by the brightness of the pico de gallo, creating a balance that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds).
No matter how much chicken tortilla soup you make, it’s always nice to have a little pico de gallo on the side.
5. Charro Beans
The Charro beans are a sight to behold. They come alive in the pot, their deep red hue contrasting with the bright yellow corn kernels and green peppers.
The smoky aroma of bacon and garlic fills the kitchen, making it clear that this side dish is as much about flavor as it is about presentation.
These beans are simple to make yet luxurious in taste. The combination of pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and spices give them a rich and hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the soup.
The bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor while the garlic adds a subtle kick at the end. All of these flavors work together to create a satisfying side dish that will surely become a favorite at your next family gathering.
This traditional Mexican dish is sure to please everyone who tries it.
Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread for an extra layer of comfort, or enjoy on its own for an easy but delicious meal.
6. Spanish Rice
Spanish Rice is a perfect side dish to accompany chicken tortilla soup. Its subtle flavor complements the spices in the soup and adds an extra layer of texture to the meal.
This recipe is fast and easy, so you’ll have it on the table quickly.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (14-ounce) low-sodium beef broth or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14-ounce) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
Instructions:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
Add salt, pepper, garlic and onion; cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes with green chilies; stir to combine all ingredients.
Cover skillet and reduce heat to low; simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
Serve warm alongside your chicken tortilla soup for a complete meal!
No matter what your family’s preferences are, Spanish Rice is sure to be a hit when served with chicken tortilla soup! From its mild flavor profile to its fluffy texture, this side dish will bring additional interest to your dinner table without taking away from the main course.
The ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights – simply follow the instructions above and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
7. Refried Beans
The aroma of refried beans drifts through the air, inviting your senses to join in on the feast.
As you scoop a spoonful of the warm, savory beans onto your plate, you can almost taste the comforting blend of spices.
Sautéed onions and garlic give this Mexican staple an extra layer of flavor that complements the smoky notes from the chicken tortilla soup perfectly.
The texture of refried beans is something special – slightly crunchy yet creamy at the same time.
These traditionally vegetarian beans come alive when cooked with a bit of oil or butter, infusing them with an unmistakable richness.
They also make for an ideal side dish as they are easy to prepare and don’t require much attention while cooking.
Whether served as a topping for tacos or paired with rice and chicken tortilla soup, refried beans have become a popular staple in Mexican cuisine due to their versatility and flavor profile.
Whip up a batch today and experience this traditional dish in all its glory!
8. Breaded Fried Plantains
Moving away from the traditional refried beans, for a unique twist on side dishes with chicken tortilla soup, why not try breaded fried plantains?
This delicious dish is usually served in Latin American cuisine and adds a sweet contrast to savory soups.
To make this classic side dish, start by peeling and slicing two ripe plantains into one-inch thick pieces.
Then coat the pieces with an egg wash before dipping them into flour and frying in hot oil until they turn golden brown. For an extra crunchy texture, you can add some panko or cornmeal to the flour.
Once the plantains are tender inside and crispy on the outside, remove them from the pan and season with salt.
Serve these tasty morsels alongside your chicken tortilla soup for a unique flavor combination that’s sure to be a hit!
9. Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco is a Mexican cheese that is the perfect accompaniment to any soup, especially Chicken Tortilla Soup!
It has a mild flavor and creamy texture that make it a delicious topping to any dish. Not only does it add an extra layer of flavor to your favorite soups, but it also adds a beautiful aesthetic touch.
Here are three tips on how to enjoy Queso Fresco with your Chicken Tortilla Soup:
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Sprinkle shredded Queso Fresco over the top of your soup when serving. This will add a nice crunch as well as bring out all the flavors in the soup.
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Top each bowl of soup with crumbled Queso Fresco for added texture and flavor. The creaminess of the cheese will contrast nicely with the spicy broth and make every bite even more enjoyable.
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Use Queso Fresco as a garnish for your soup by adding small cubes or thin slices on top before serving. This will give your guests something extra special to look forward to when they sit down to enjoy their meal!
Adding Queso Fresco to your Chicken Tortilla Soup will elevate the experience from ordinary to extraordinary! Whether you sprinkle, crumble, or cube this delicious Mexican cheese, you’re sure to delight your taste buds with every bite of this classic comfort food.
10. Slow-Cooked Carnitas
Queso fresco adds a unique flavor to the classic Mexican dish, chicken tortilla soup. Its creamy texture and slightly salty taste make it an ideal accompaniment.
To take the meal up a notch further, try adding slow-cooked carnitas to the mix. This succulent shredded pork is marinated with garlic, cumin, orange juice, and other spices for a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the soup’s mild broth. The result is a hearty meal that’s sure to leave you satisfied yet wanting more.
Carnitas also make for great leftovers; simply store them in your refrigerator for up to four days and use them in tacos or burritos later in the week!
11. Grilled Chicken Fajitas
The sizzling sound of succulent Grilled Chicken Fajitas is enough to make your mouth water!
This classic Mexican dish pairs perfectly with a hot bowl of chicken tortilla soup. It’s a simple yet delicious combination that everyone will love.
Grilled Chicken Fajitas are easy to prepare and require very little preparation time. You’ll need to marinate the chicken overnight in a blend of spices, garlic, and lime juice for maximum flavor.
Once your chicken is ready, simply cook it on a hot skillet with peppers and onions until golden brown and cooked through.
Slice your chicken into thin strips then serve with warm tortillas, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese.
This savory combination not only satisfies taste buds but also warms the soul.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for an inviting meal for two, Grilled Chicken Fajitas served alongside chicken tortilla soup makes for an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget!
12. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a delicious accompaniment to chicken tortilla soup.
Not only do they bring additional flavor and texture to the dish, but they’re also a great way to get extra veggies in your diet.
Here are three reasons why roasted vegetables are the perfect side dish:
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Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and brings out their delicious flavors.
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Roasting concentrates the flavor of the vegetables, so they taste even better when combined with soup.
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They’re easy to prepare – just toss some sliced or diced veggies with oil and seasonings, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast until they’re tender and lightly browned.
With their irresistible aroma, vibrant colors, and amazing taste, roasted veggies will take your chicken tortilla soup to the next level! Serve them up for an unforgettable meal that you can feel good about eating.
13. Roasted Corn Salad
A roasted corn salad is the perfect accompaniment to chicken tortilla soup.
The sweetness of the roasted corn, combined with crunchy bell peppers and a zesty lime juice dressing, provides a flavor contrast that complements the smokiness of the soup.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh or frozen corn kernels, red bell pepper, cilantro, green onions and a freshly squeezed lime to make the dressing.
To begin prepping your roasted corn salad, start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spread out your corn kernels on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes – or until they start to turn golden brown – stirring every five minutes so they cook evenly. Remove from oven and let cool.
While the corn is roasting, dice up your bell pepper into small cubes and finely chop your cilantro and green onions.
In a medium-sized bowl combine all ingredients and give it a good stir.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice and salt & pepper to taste to make the dressing. Pour over salad ingredients and toss everything together until coated in dressing.
Serve alongside chicken tortilla soup for an extra flavorful meal!
14. Mexican Street Corn
Continuing the Mexican theme, Mexican street corn is the perfect accompaniment to chicken tortilla soup.
The combination of grilled corn, with a creamy, spicy mayonnaise and tangy cotija cheese is irresistible. This dish brings together all of the flavors of Mexico in one bite.
To make Mexican street corn at home, you’ll need to begin by preheating a grill or griddle pan.
Shuck the ears of corn and brush them lightly with oil before placing them on the grill. Grill each side for about 6 minutes until they are lightly charred and tender.
When they’re done, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly before brushing with a mixture of mayonnaise, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and lime juice.
Lastly, sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro leaves for flavor and garnish.
Mexican street corn is a great way to add an extra punch of flavor to your chicken tortilla soup dinner – it’s sure to be a hit! Serve it up hot off the grill for maximum deliciousness.
15. Creamy Avocado Salad
The perfect accompaniment to your delicious chicken tortilla soup is a creamy avocado salad.
This light and vibrant dish can add a touch of flavor to any meal. It’s incredibly easy to make and ideal for an outdoor gathering or a casual lunch.
To begin, gather the necessary ingredients:
- one ripe avocado
- one tablespoon of olive oil
- half a lemon
- two tablespoons of fresh parsley or cilantro (whichever you prefer)
- a pinch of sea salt.
Cut the avocado in half and carefully remove the pit. Then mash it up in a small bowl with the olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency – it should still have some texture but be mostly smooth. Squeeze in the juice from half of the lemon and mix it together with the herbs and salt.
Taste test it before serving to make sure it has enough seasoning!
Serve this simple yet satisfying salad alongside your chicken tortilla soup for an unbeatable combination that will leave your guests wanting more! Make sure everyone gets equal amounts of the avocado goodness – no fights allowed!
Conclusion
I hope you can now whip up an amazing meal to accompany your chicken tortilla soup!
The combination of the crunchy baked tortilla chips, sweet cornbread, and creamy guacamole will transport you to a Mexican food paradise.
I personally love the roasted vegetables and roasted corn salad – they add a lovely depth of flavor and texture.
And if you’re looking for something extra special, try adding Mexican Street Corn or Creamy Avocado Salad.
All these dishes work together to create an unforgettable meal that will have your guests coming back for more!
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