What to Serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup? 13 Best Side Dishes

Okay, picture this: chicken tortilla soup steaming from your bowl while we chat about what to munch on the side. It’s that perfect rainy day kind of comfort food. Hungry minds always want more.

Not only does it pack warmth, it cries out for something extra on the side. We’ve all riffed on the usual suspects like chips and salsa.

Time to bring in some fresh ideas. Ever tried pairing it with a cheesy quesadilla? Maybe a crisp, zesty salad too? Sometimes, the joy is combining the unexpected with the familiar. We’ve tasted our way through these options and believe me, variety keeps things exciting.

Top 13 Side Dishes for Chicken Tortilla Soup

Here are the 13 best side dishes to elevate your chicken tortilla soup game:

This list provides a mix of warm, zesty, creamy, and fresh flavors that balance and complement the spicy, comforting notes of Chicken Tortilla Soup, without repeating similar textures or tastes.

1 – Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

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Elotes (Grilled Mexican Street Corn) Recipe

Slathered with cheese, mayo, chile, garlic, cilantro, and lime, Mexican elote is one of the best ways to serve grilled corn. Try this easy recipe.

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Beware the cheese fiesta! Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, dances with flavor. Grilled, then slathered in creamy mayo or tangy sour cream. A dusting of chili powder and a sprinkle of cotija cheese is essential. Lime juice? Absolutely.

We reckon it’s the zest that makes each bite memorable. Perfectly tossed with fresh cilantro, it pairs well with tortilla soup. We keep some napkins handy because it gets messy, but that’s half the fun!

2 – Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread

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Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

This skillet jalapeño Cheddar cheese cornbread is irresistible. The jalapeños don’t really add much heat; so if you’re looking for more spice, include a few seeds when you’re dicing the peppers.

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Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread? Count us in! It’s spicy, cheesy, and has that satisfying cornbread crunch. We find it a dream with chicken tortilla soup.

The jalapeños give a kick. Cheese melts in your mouth. Simple bits that stand out—like adding diced jalapeños before baking. That’s a move, right?

Crumbly and a bit of a mess, it’s worth the cleanup. A touch of butter or honey drizzled on top can be the cherry on top.

3 – Crispy Avocado Fries

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Avocado Fries – Love and Lemons

Coated in panko breadcrumbs, these avocado fries are crispy on the outside and creamy in the middle. A delicious healthy appetizer or snack!

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We can’t overlook crispy avocado fries. These are like potato fries’ cooler cousin. Avocados get a crunchy coat, and suddenly, they’re the star. Fry them until golden, and you’ve got a fun snack.

They’re great with lime or a sprinkle of salt. Dip them in ranch or sriracha, depending on your mood. Trial and error might teach us a thing or two about frying temperature. Personal tip: eat them warm for max enjoyment.

4 – Cilantro Lime Rice

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Cilantro Lime Rice – Love and Lemons

No need to stop at Chipotle—this easy cilantro lime rice recipe is fresh and delicious. A great side dish or base for homemade burrito bowls!

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We all need some variety on our plates, don’t we? Cilantro lime rice brings a citrusy freshness that’s like a party for your taste buds. It’s a breeze to whip up.

Start with fluffy rice. Squeeze lime for that tang. Add fresh cilantro for an earthiness that pops. Just the right balance. We add a pinch of salt to taste. Simple pleasures done right. Give it a try.

5 – Mini Quesadillas

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Mini Quesadillas

These Mini Quesadillas are a fun appetizer or snack stuffed with blackened juicy chicken and glued together with ooey gooey cheese.

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Quesadilla time! We adore these pocket-sized snacks. Cheese melts just right inside a warm tortilla crisp. Add some jalapeños for a kick. They fit any plate size. We’ve tried different fillings too, like mushrooms or chicken.

That’s creativity on a plate. A hot pan and a quick flip, and they’re ready. Sharing? Avoid fights by making extras. Spritz some lime on top if you like. Keeps things fresh and lively any day of the week.

6 – Chili-Lime Roasted Sweet Potatoes

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Chili Lime Glazed Sweet Potatoes

Chili lime glazed sweet potatoes are spicy, savory, and sweet. The flavors are a match made in heaven, and pair well with holiday classics.

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Chili-lime roasted sweet potatoes? Oh yeah! Our mouths water just thinking about it. Bold flavors mix with soft textures.

Fresh lime adds zest. Chili offers kick. Mix and roast until caramelized. Sweet potatoes get crispy edges.

That’s magic in your oven. Easy, breezy roasting for any meal. We sprinkle salt. Perfection lies in balance.

Pairs well with anything. Adjust spice levels for fun. Keep experimenting. It’s satisfying when flavors pop. Simple steps, happy taste.

7 – Chorizo-Stuffed Poblano Peppers

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Chorizo Stuffed Poblano Peppers

When you think of stuffed peppers, you usually are thinking of bell peppers. This recipe fills poblano peppers with chorizo, rice, and taco sauce for a spicier version of a classic dish.

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Chorizo-stuffed poblano peppers, anyone? Bringing hearty vibes! Chorizo’s bold, spicy flavors meld with roasted poblanos. We dig the smoky taste, providing a fiery twist. Add cheese for creamy touch. Some prefer a hint of cumin or oregano. Cooking them is a breeze.

Roast peppers until soft and slightly charred. Stuff generously. Bake briefly to marry flavors. Ideal for sharing at gatherings. These peppers are satisfaction in every bite. A delicious departure from the usual.

8 – Mango Salsa with Tortilla Chips

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Fresh Mango Salsa

This colorful mango salsa recipe is so easy to make! It’s sweet, spicy and absolutely delicious. Fresh mango salsa is great with chips, on tacos and more!

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We’re all about snacking on juicy mango salsa. It’s zesty and sweet. Easy to whip up anytime.

Chop mango, onion, cilantro. Toss with lime juice. Mix in jalapeño for some heat. Goes with tortilla chips fabulously. Crisp meets juicy.

Our take: Always make extra. People devour it fast. Mango freshens up the salsa vibe. It’s a simple, bright side dish.

Great as a dip or topping. Can’t beat that combo. Players at parties and everyday munching.

9 – Refried Black Beans

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You Haven’t Had Refried Beans Until You’ve Made Refried Black Beans

Love refried beans? Give refried black beans a try! Start with canned or dried black beans, then fry and mash them with savory seasonings.

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We interrupt your snack planning with refried black beans. They’re not just a side, they’re the main event. Creamy texture with a hint of spice. We whip them up with garlic, onions, and a splash of lime.

Pair with tortillas or use as a dip. Quick to make, super satisfying. Our trick? Mash them to your liking. We sometimes add cheese or sprinkle cilantro. Amazing base for nachos, too. Simple, versatile, ready for anything.

10 – Mexican Caesar Salad

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Mexican Caesar Salad

This Mexican Caesar Salad recipe is made with a lighter Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing, lots of my favorite Mexi ingredients, and it tastes so fresh and flavorful and delicious! Look out, world. My favorite kind of food

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We jazz up Caesar salad with a spicy twist. Creamy dressing meets crunchy tortilla strips. Loads of flavor with cotija cheese. Simple to put together.

We add a hint of chili for zing. Fresh romaine gives it a bite. Dressing coats each leaf. Unexpected touch with avocado slices.

Balance is key here. Not too spicy. Perfect crunch in every forkful. A side dish that stands out on any table. Bright and bold with every bite.

11 – Pico de Gallo with Cucumber Slices

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Cucumber Pico de Gallo – Three Little Chickpeas

A refreshing cucumber pico de gallo that uses simple ingredients and adds a boost of flavor to so many dishes. Enjoy it with tacos, on grain bowls, or serve it with chips.

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We’re vibing with the freshness of pico de gallo. And adding cucumber slices? Genius move. Effortless crunch with every bite. Mix tomatoes, onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Spice it with a dash of jalapeño. We adore how cucumber adds a cool twist.

Garnish tacos or serve as a chill side. Cucumber keeps things light. It balances bold flavors. We find it easy to make and even easier to eat. Bold yet refreshing.

12 – Grilled Zucchini with Cotija Cheese

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Grilled Summer Squash with Cotija & Pepitas

Summer squash- especially the vibrant yellow kind- is one of my ABSOLUTE favorite summer finds. I have it almost every day for the months of July and August because it’s so versatile and flavorful.

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Zucchini, our trusty veggie sidekick, joins the chargrill party. Add a sprinkle of cotija cheese for the win. It’s all about that smoky, cheesy bite. Slice zucchini into spears or rounds, whatever fits your style. Grill until it gets those tantalizing char marks.

Cotija boosts flavor to new heights, complementing each grilled bite with saltiness. Use olive oil and spices for an extra layer of yum. We’re big fans of a squeeze of lime on top for zing.

13 – Mexican Chocolate Brownies

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Mexican Chocolate Brownies

Mexican chocolate brownies are a delicious twist on classic brownies. Rich triple chocolate with a hint of spice from the addition of cinnamon and cayenne

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Ready for a sweet spin? Mexican chocolate brownies, our dessert hero. We mix rich, chocolatey goodness with a hint of spice. That extra cinnamon kick makes a difference. Baked until just set, these are fudgy and aromatic delights.

We toss in chopped nuts for crunch. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Epic combo. A whisk, a bowl, and you’re nearly there. Balance cocoa and sugar to taste. Got leftovers? Keep them sealed to stay fresh.

Andrew Gray

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.

His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.

Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.