Costco's Kirkland Signature Chicken Tortilla Soup has become a popular choice among shoppers seeking convenient, restaurant-quality meals. This Mexican-inspired soup delivers authentic flavors with minimal preparation required, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts. Understanding what makes this product stand out requires examining its composition, nutritional value, and versatility in meal planning.
Product Overview and Availability
Found in the refrigerated prepared foods section near other deli items, Costco's Chicken Tortilla Soup comes in a 32-ounce (2-pound) container with a clear plastic lid. The product typically maintains freshness for 7-10 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Unlike canned alternatives, this soup features fresh ingredients without artificial preservatives, contributing to its superior texture and flavor profile. Most Costco locations stock this item year-round, though availability may vary by region and season.
Ingredient Analysis
The soup's ingredient list reveals why it delivers such robust flavor. The base consists of chicken broth, shredded cooked chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce provide the distinctive smoky heat, while cumin, oregano, and lime juice add authentic Mexican seasoning. Unlike many commercial soups, Costco's version avoids artificial flavors and excessive sodium, relying instead on quality ingredients for depth of flavor. The soup contains visible pieces of chicken rather than processed meat bits, contributing to its premium quality perception.
Nutritional Profile
Understanding the nutritional content helps consumers make informed choices. Per 1 cup (245g) serving, the soup typically contains:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 180 | 9% |
| Total Fat | 6g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g | 8% |
| Cholesterol | 35mg | 12% |
| Sodium | 790mg | 34% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 19g | 7% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g | 14% |
| Sugars | 3g | |
| Protein | 13g |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
The soup provides a balanced macronutrient profile with substantial protein from the chicken and beans, complex carbohydrates from corn and black beans, and healthy fats from the natural ingredients. The fiber content supports digestive health, while the moderate sodium level makes it suitable for most dietary patterns when consumed as part of a balanced meal.
Taste and Texture Profile
Costco's Chicken Tortilla Soup delivers a well-balanced flavor experience with noticeable layers of taste. The broth has a rich chicken base enhanced by roasted garlic and onion notes, while the chipotle peppers provide a gentle warmth that builds gradually rather than overwhelming the palate. The shredded chicken remains tender and flavorful after heating, unlike many prepared soups where meat becomes dry or stringy. Black beans and corn maintain their texture without becoming mushy, contributing to the soup's satisfying mouthfeel. The overall consistency is hearty but not overly thick, allowing for easy spooning while still feeling substantial.
Optimal Serving Suggestions
To maximize your enjoyment of Costco's Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these professional serving recommendations:
- Traditional presentation: Serve hot in pre-warmed bowls with crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime
- Meal enhancement: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or a fried egg for added protein
- Customization: Adjust spice level by adding hot sauce or reducing with additional broth
- Complete meal: Pair with a simple green salad and cornbread for a balanced dinner
- Leftover transformation: Use cooled soup as a base for enchilada filling or chicken tortilla casserole
Storage and Reheating Best Practices
Proper handling maintains the soup's quality and safety. When you bring the soup home from Costco, refrigerate it immediately. The container remains sealed until first use, preserving freshness. After opening, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days. For reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Avoid boiling, which can cause the chicken to become tough. If using a microwave, heat in 60-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between intervals. Never refreeze previously frozen soup, as this compromises both texture and safety.
Professional Copycat Recipe
For those interested in recreating Costco's Chicken Tortilla Soup at home with even greater customization, this chef-developed recipe delivers comparable quality with control over ingredients:
Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup (6 servings)
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce from the can
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (15oz) can black beans, rinsed
- 1 (15oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1.5 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. In a large pot over medium heat, brown chicken in olive oil for 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper in the same pot until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and spices. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Add black beans, tomatoes, and corn. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
- Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
This homemade version allows customization of spice levels and ingredient quality. For optimal results, use fresh spices and high-quality broth. The soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Comparison to Similar Products
When evaluating Costco's offering against competitors, several factors distinguish it:
- Price point: At approximately $0.19 per ounce, it's more affordable than many restaurant soups while maintaining quality
- Ingredient quality: Contains recognizable ingredients without artificial additives common in canned alternatives
- Convenience: Requires only heating versus preparation time for dry soup mixes
- Flavor complexity: Offers layered seasoning that surpasses many mass-produced options
- Texture: Maintains distinct ingredient textures rather than becoming homogenized
While grocery store canned versions often contain higher sodium levels and preservatives, Costco's refrigerated soup provides a middle ground between convenience and fresh preparation. Compared to restaurant versions, it delivers similar quality at a fraction of the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is Costco chicken tortilla soup?
Costco's Chicken Tortilla Soup has a medium spice level due to chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. The heat builds gradually rather than being immediately intense, making it approachable for most palates. Those sensitive to spice can reduce the heat by adding a splash of cream or additional broth when reheating.
Where can I find chicken tortilla soup at Costco?
You'll typically find Kirkland Signature Chicken Tortilla Soup in the refrigerated prepared foods section near the deli counter. Look for the 32-ounce plastic container with a clear lid. Some locations may stock it near other soups or in the international foods section, but the deli area is the most common placement.
How long does Costco chicken tortilla soup last after opening?
After opening, transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it will maintain quality for 3-4 days. The unopened container typically has a shelf life of 7-10 days from purchase, as indicated by the 'use by' date on the package. Never consume if you notice any off odors, mold, or significant separation.
Can I freeze Costco chicken tortilla soup?
Yes, you can freeze Costco's Chicken Tortilla Soup for up to 3 months. Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch of headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of ingredients like corn and black beans may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor remains excellent.
What are the main ingredients in Costco chicken tortilla soup?
The primary ingredients include shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, cumin, oregano, and lime juice. The soup contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, contributing to its fresh taste and quality texture.
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