This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this soup combines tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy goodness. Whether you’re using fresh chicken, leftovers, or rotisserie, it’s an easy recipe that promises to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup simmering on the stove or in your Crock Pot.
- Flavorful Indulgence: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich and creamy texture that elevates the traditional tortilla soup.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! This recipe works great with fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more jalapenos or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need for preparing this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Crock Pot (optional)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even heating and ample space for all ingredients.
- Crock Pot: Perfect for those who prefer a slow-cooked option; it enhances flavors over time.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Ladle: A great tool for serving the soup without mess.
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!
For the Base
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
For the Soup
- 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
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
- 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 1 oz. packet taco seasoning (about 3 Tbsp.)
For the Creaminess
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)
For Serving
- Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in a large pot.
Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper:
– Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
– Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add all remaining ingredients except for the cheddar cheese and cream cheese:
– Start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; adjust later as needed.
– Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Let the soup come to a gentle bubble:
– Partially cover to maintain moisture.
– Cook slowly to keep chicken juicy—avoid rapid boiling.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
After 20-25 minutes:
– Remove cooked chicken from the pot.
– Use two forks to shred it before returning it to the soup.
Step 5: Add Cheeses
Reduce heat to low:
– Gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese.
– Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup:
– Adjust seasonings as needed with more taco seasoning or hot sauce.
– Garnish as desired before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, a delightful dish perfect for any meal!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty dish that warms the soul. It’s versatile, and you can customize it with various toppings and sides to enhance its flavors.
Add Fresh Toppings
- Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and richness.
- Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens up the soup with its aromatic flavor.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice gives a refreshing tang that complements the soup.
Offer Crunchy Tortillas
- Tortilla Chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips on the side for dipping or topping.
- Homemade Tortilla Strips: Fry or bake cut tortillas for a crunchy garnish that’s perfect for scooping.
Pair with Creamy Additions
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool, creamy element to each bowl.
- Shredded Cheese: Extra cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top, enhancing the creamy texture.
Serve with a Side Salad
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens balances 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 Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken for maximum flavor.
- Control Cooking Time: Avoid boiling the chicken too rapidly; slow cooking keeps it tender and juicy.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less hot sauce and taco seasoning; you can always add more at the end for extra heat.
- Incorporate Different Cheeses: Try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a different taste profile.
- Experiment with Herbs: Adding spices such as oregano or paprika can elevate the flavor even more.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit after cooking helps blend all the flavors together nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs wonderfully with the soup’s creamy texture.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cumin and lime adds substance to your meal.
- Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip is perfect alongside tortilla soup and adds extra flavor.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and cheese make a hearty side dish.
- Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas are great for dipping into the soup and adding extra cheesy goodness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy complement that balances out the richness of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a delightful experience, but certain errors can detract from the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to bland soup. Always sample your soup and add extra spices if necessary.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long will make it tough. Keep an eye on it and remove it when cooked through for the best texture.
- Forgetting to soften cream cheese: If the cream cheese isn’t softened, it won’t blend smoothly into the soup. Always let it sit out for a bit before adding it.
- Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth will affect the flavor of the entire soup. Choose a good brand or make your own for better results.
- Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like tortilla strips or fresh cilantro enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this step for a complete dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Freeze in individual portions for easy meals later.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes. This keeps it from drying out.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes) while stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method maintains texture well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful dish made with chicken, cheese, and spices, creating a deliciously creamy broth perfect for any occasion.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken can save time and still deliver great flavor in your creamy chicken tortilla soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of jalapeno or hot sauce according to your preference while making the creamy chicken tortilla soup.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with beans or vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences. Whether you’re using fresh ingredients or leftovers, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table! Give it a try today!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich cheeses, and zesty spices for a delightful meal any day of the week. This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights or cozy gatherings, allowing you to use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken. The creamy texture from cheddar and cream cheese elevates the traditional tortilla soup experience while customizable spice levels ensure it suits every palate. Serve it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips for a complete culinary experience that’s sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately six servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 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 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 oz packet taco seasoning
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- Sauté diced onions and jalapenos in butter over medium heat for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for one additional minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, corn, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, chicken breasts, cumin, and taco seasoning. Mix well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer; partially cover and cook for about 20 minutes.
- Remove cooked chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot.
- Reduce heat to low and mix in shredded cheddar and cream cheese until melted.
- Adjust seasonings as desired before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
