Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect addition to your meal rotation. It’s comfort food at its finest, delivering rich flavors and creamy textures in every spoonful. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this soup fits all occasions. With easy prep and simple ingredients, you can whip up a bowl of warmth that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This soup takes just 10 minutes of prep time and cooks in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh chicken, leftovers, or rotisserie chicken—whatever you have on hand works great!
- Creamy Indulgence: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese gives this soup a deliciously creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Spicy Kick: The jalapeno and taco seasoning add just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the dish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With generous servings, this recipe makes enough to feed a family or serve at gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup even easier. Below are some essentials that will help you through the process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups evenly while allowing plenty of room for all ingredients.
- Cutting board: A stable surface is essential for safely chopping vegetables and preparing your ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is easy to make on the stove top or the Crock Pot. Make it with fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken. Cheddar and Cream Cheese add a hint of creamy indulgence!
Base Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
Canned Goods
- 1 15 oz. can corn (drained)
- 1 10 oz. can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 15 oz. can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 5 cups chicken broth
Chicken
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
Seasonings
- 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 1 oz. packet taco seasoning (about 3 Tbsp.)
Dairy
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)
Garnish and Serving
- Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat and add the diced onions and peppers. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT for the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garnish ingredients. Start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; you can adjust to taste later.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Let the soup gradually come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid boiling rapidly to keep the chicken tender.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
Remove cooked chicken after 20-25 minutes once fully cooked through. Shred using two forks and return it to the pot.
Step 5: Add Dairy
Reduce heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese along with softened cream cheese. Stir until everything melts into a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup and add any additional seasonings as needed before garnishing and serving! Enjoy your deliciously comforting Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is just as enjoyable as making it! This soup is versatile and can be customized with various toppings and accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.
Toppings
- Fresh Cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness and color.
- Sour Cream – Provides a creamy contrast to the spicy soup.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy texture that complements the soup beautifully.
- Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime adds a zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
- Tortilla Strips – For a crunchy texture, sprinkle these on top just before serving.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread – A sweet and buttery side that pairs perfectly with the spicy soup.
- Crusty Bread – Great for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Salad – A refreshing green salad can balance out the richness of the soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To ensure your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – This saves time and adds great flavor without extra cooking.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Start with less hot sauce; you can always add more later if you like it spicier.
- Slow Cooking Option – For deeper flavors, let it simmer longer on low heat in a crock pot.
- Stir Cream Cheese Gradually – This helps it melt smoothly into the soup without clumping.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:
- Cheesy Quesadillas – Quick to make and perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Guacamole and Chips – The creamy avocado contrasts nicely with the spicy soup.
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup’s flavors well.
- Pico de Gallo – Fresh salsa adds a refreshing bite alongside each spoonful of soup.
- Stuffed Peppers – These hearty veggies filled with rice and cheese make for a satisfying side.
- Grilled Veggies – Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add a healthy touch to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Not sautéing the vegetables properly: Ensure you sauté the onions and peppers until they are soft. This step builds flavor in the soup.
- Using canned chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth or homemade broth for better taste control. This avoids an overly salty soup.
- Skipping the cheese: The cheddar and cream cheese are essential for that creamy texture. Don’t omit them or substitute with low-fat versions as they won’t melt as nicely.
- Boiling the chicken too quickly: Cooking chicken at high heat can make it tough. Simmer gently to keep it juicy and tender.
- Not adjusting seasonings: Taste your soup before serving! Adjust spices as needed; everyone’s palate is different.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until hot.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup to help you make the best version possible.
What can I add to Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Fresh cilantro or avocado on top also enhances flavor.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can use turkey, beef, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier?
Increase the amount of jalapenos and hot sauce according to your spice tolerance. You can also add diced chipotle peppers for extra flavor.
Can I make this soup in a Crock Pot?
Absolutely! Just follow the same steps but combine all ingredients except cheese into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients based on what you have at home. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that blends rich flavors and creamy textures, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction in each spoonful. With its quick preparation time and versatility in ingredients—fresh chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even leftovers—this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates an indulgently creamy texture, while jalapenos and taco seasoning add just the right amount of spice to tantalize your taste buds. Top it off with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or crunchy tortilla strips for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 15 oz can corn (drained)
- 10 oz can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ⅓ cup cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and jalapenos for about 5–6 minutes until softened; add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, corn, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook chicken in the soup for about 20–25 minutes until fully cooked; shred it using two forks.
- Reduce heat to low; gradually stir in cheddar and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning if needed before serving with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
