Ground Round Chicken Tortilla Soup

By Editor On Dec 13, 2024

This casual dining classic comes alive in your kitchen with just a few ingredients and a few minutes of cooking.

Copycat ground round chicken tortilla soup and tortilla chips.

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Cheesy Chicken Tortilla Soup

For many, the Ground Round Grill & Bar was a tasty, reliable standby in the world of casual sit-down dining in the 1970s and 1980s. One of the movement’s pioneers, the chain provided hungry patrons with a wide variety of choices across a diverse menu but struggled in the face of tough competition from other restaurant groups. What was once a thriving company with over 200 locations has shrunk to just a handful in the 2020s.

However, the cravings of those who ate there with family and friends in the past haven’t disappeared in the same way. That’s why we’ve developed this delicious copycat recipe that allows you to recreate the mouthwatering flavors of Ground Round’s chicken tortilla soup right in your home kitchen. It’s a taste of comfort food and nostalgia that’s hard to beat on a chilly day!

What makes the Ground Round chicken tortilla soup so good?

The symphony of flavors and textures that make up this spicy, cheesy chicken tortilla soup is truly one of a kind. With equal parts cheesy richness, bold chicken flavor, and zesty enchilada sauce, there’s an amazing amount of taste in this creamy soup. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite garnishes and toppings to satisfy any craving.

Why you will love to make this recipe again and again

Aside from its incredible flavor, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have the time or energy for serious cooking. In just 20 minutes, it’s ready to enjoy.

That’s because it relies on ready-made flavor enhancers like canned soups and enchilada sauces, which help build the taste without hours of prep and simmering. It’s also easy to preserve in the fridge and freezer, making it a good choice for make-ahead meal preps.

Ingredients you’ll need

Don’t be fooled — this cheesy chicken tortilla soup recipe has a small list of ingredients that nevertheless create big flavors.

Cooked chicken breast
Fiesta nacho cheese soup
Cream of chicken soup
Milk
Enchilada sauce
Tortilla chips
Shredded cheddar cheese

It’s easy to substitute your favorite cheese for cheddar if you desire. Some top options include Mexican cheese blends, Monterey or pepper jack, or even fresher cheese like crumbled cotija.

Copycat ground round chicken tortilla soup ingredients on a tray.

How to make Ground Round chicken tortilla soup

Even the most inexperienced cooks will find that whipping up a batch of spicy chicken tortilla soup is well within their abilities.

Cube the chicken breast and season if desired.
Add the chicken, soup, milk, and enchilada sauce to a saucepan or Dutch oven.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer then serve immediately. Or pour it into a slow cooker set on low to keep it warm.

Making ground round chicken tortilla soup.

Toppings for your soup

One of the best parts of this simple recipe is how easy it is to customize to your desired taste. Start with shredded cheese and crumbled tortilla chips or tortilla strips, which provide both flavor and texture to your soup.

Beyond these standbys, consider your favorite flavors:

Some enjoy chopped fresh cilantro for a herby boost, while others prefer the sharpness of diced red onion.
A dollop of sour cream will add creaminess to the soup.
Pickled or fresh jalapeños or green chilies are ideal for those who prefer a bit more heat.
On the flip side, a slice of avocado or scoop of sour cream can mellow out the soup.
Don’t forget a slice of lime for an acidic boost that adds flavor and cuts through the richness of the dish.

A bowl of copycat ground round chicken tortilla soup.

What to serve with copycat Ground Round chicken tortilla soup

No matter what you’re craving, it’s relatively easy to find a side to pair with this soup. Along with extra chips, traditional tortillas are also a tasty choice, as is cornbread.

For a veggie-focused addition, a simple green salad provides a healthy contrast, while a Mexican street corn salad complements the bold flavors of the main course. Other options include black beans, pinto beans, plantains, or rice.

How to store cheesy chicken tortilla soup

Storing this Ground Round chicken tortilla soup is as easy as making it. Start by removing it from the heat and allowing it to cool to room temperature. Then, package it into one or more sealed containers and store it in the refrigerator. It’s also possible to freeze this soup in freezer-safe bags or containers.

How long will Ground Round chicken tortilla soup last?

This cheesy chicken tortilla soup is great for leftovers, as it lasts three to four days in the fridge when stored correctly. Much longer-term storage is possible in the freezer, where the soup will remain at top quality for three months.

How to reheat spicy chicken tortilla soup

For refrigerated soup, the process could hardly be more straightforward. Just add it to a saucepan and heat over medium heat until it reaches your desired temperature. A few short bursts in the microwave also work for those in a rush, stirring in between each interval.

If you’re starting with frozen soup, thaw it overnight in your fridge. Then, follow the directions above.

Copycat ground round chicken tortilla soup and a spoon on a napkin.

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