Craving that creamy, comforting bowl of McAlister’s famous tortilla chicken soup, but can’t make it to the restaurant? You’re not alone. This beloved soup has garnered a cult following for its rich, cheesy broth and tender chicken chunks topped with crispy tortilla strips.
The good news is you can recreate this restaurant favorite in your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you’ll have a steaming bowl of copycat McAlister’s tortilla chicken soup that rivals the original. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a craving or impress dinner guests, this homemade version delivers all the flavors you love.
What Makes McAlister’s Tortilla Chicken Soup Special
McAlister’s tortilla chicken soup stands out from other chicken soups thanks to its signature creamy base and bold southwestern flavors. The soup combines tender shredded chicken with a rich, cheese-infused broth that’s seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and other warm spices.
The finishing touches—crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream—add texture and brightness that balance the soup’s richness. This combination creates a satisfying meal that feels both familiar and exciting.
Essential Ingredients for Your Copycat Recipe
To recreate McAlister’s tortilla chicken soup at home, you’ll need these key ingredients:
For the soup base:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
- Processed cheese (like Velveeta) or cream cheese
- Diced tomatoes
- Onion and garlic
- Bell peppers
For seasoning:
- Cumin
- Chili powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Hot sauce (optional)
For toppings:
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken. You can either poach the chicken directly in seasoned broth or bake it separately and shred it. For maximum flavor, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin before cooking. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Build the Soup Base
In a large pot, sauté diced onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Add diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Create the Creamy Texture
Lower the heat and slowly stir in your cream and cheese. If using processed cheese, cut it into small cubes first to help it melt evenly. Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from curdling.
Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The soup should be creamy, well-seasoned, and have a slight kick from the spices.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Don’t rush the cheese: Add cheese gradually and keep the heat low to prevent separation. If your soup does curdle, try blending a portion of it and stirring it back in.
Make it your own: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce. Some home cooks like to add corn or black beans for extra texture.
Perfect your toppings: Homemade tortilla strips make a difference. Simply cut corn tortillas into strips and fry them until crispy, or bake them in the oven for a healthier option.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Serve your McAlister s-style tortilla chicken soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Lime wedges on the side add a bright, citrusy note that complements the rich soup perfectly.
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat and add a splash of broth if needed to restore the consistency. The soup may thicken as it cools, which is perfectly normal.
Bring Restaurant Quality Home
Making McAlister’s tortilla chicken soup at home proves that restaurant favorites can be successfully recreated in your kitchen. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy this comforting soup whenever the craving strikes, customized exactly to your taste preferences.
The beauty of homemade soup lies in the ability to control every element, from spice level to ingredient quality. Plus, you’ll likely have enough for multiple meals, making it both delicious and economical.
