Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish for cozy gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers satisfying results every time. Enjoy it as a warm meal or serve it up at your next gathering for a delightful treat that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This soup is ready in less than an hour, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken all work beautifully.
- Deliciously Creamy: The addition of cream cheese and cheddar brings indulgence to each bowl.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice with jalapenos and hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it for a casual dinner or dress it up for special gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without splattering.
- Stirring spoon: Helps incorporate flavors while preventing ingredients from sticking to the bottom.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently, ensuring even cooking.
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
Vegetables & Beans
- 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)
Chicken & Broth
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
Spices & Cheese
- 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 1 oz. packet taco seasoning (about 3 Tbsp.)
- 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 the Vegetables
Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno peppers. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until they soften, 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 any garnish options. Start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; feel free to adjust later based on your taste.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid boiling too rapidly to keep the chicken tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After about 20-25 minutes, remove the chicken once fully cooked (adjust timing based on thickness). Use two forks to shred it before returning it to the pot.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Lower the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in both shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until everything is blended into a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup and add any extra seasonings if needed before garnishing and serving!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Serving your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy it.
With Fresh Toppings
- Avocado – Add sliced or diced avocado for a creamy texture that complements the soup.
- Cilantro – Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and freshness.
- Lime Wedges – Squeeze lime over the soup for a zesty kick that balances the creaminess.
Accompanied by Tortillas
- Crispy Tortilla Strips – Fry strips of corn tortillas for a crunchy topping that adds texture.
- Soft Flour or Corn Tortillas – Serve warm tortillas on the side for dipping and scooping.
As a Complete Meal
- Rice – Serve over a bed of rice for added substance and heartiness.
- Salad – Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To achieve the best version of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Chicken – Use fresh or rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Control Spice Level – Adjust the amount of hot sauce and jalapeños based on your heat preference.
- Gradual Cheese Addition – Slowly add cheese while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping.
- Simmer Gently – Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to prevent tough chicken; slow cooking is key.
- Taste as You Go – Regularly taste and adjust seasonings; every batch can be slightly different!
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.
- Cornbread – A sweet, buttery cornbread complements the spicy flavors of the soup beautifully.
- Mexican Rice – Flavored rice adds an extra layer of taste and makes meals more filling.
- Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip pairs well and adds richness alongside your soup.
- Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa make for an engaging appetizer.
- Quesadillas – Melted cheese in tortillas provides a satisfying side that everyone loves.
- Grilled Vegetables – Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can detract from your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F and remove it once done.
- Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the onions and peppers first can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to sauté them until they’re soft.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap broth or canned goods can impact taste. Opt for high-quality chicken broth and fresh vegetables when possible.
- Not seasoning well: Underseasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like taco seasoning and hot sauce to your preference.
- Ignoring texture: A soupy texture might not be appealing. For creaminess, make sure to incorporate both cheddar and cream cheese properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Cool the soup completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Gently heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier?
You can add more jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce according to your spice preference.
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What toppings go well with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Consider garnishing with avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, or lime wedges for extra flavor and texture.
Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this soup and saves time on preparation.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and spice levels to suit your taste. This dish is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep for the week ahead. Give it a try, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This rich, creamy soup combines tender chicken with a medley of flavors, including zesty tomatoes, black beans, and a hint of spice from jalapenos. Perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests, this recipe is versatile, allowing you to use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken. The addition of cream cheese and cheddar cheese gives it an indulgent creaminess that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Top it off with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can corn (15 oz), drained
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 oz taco seasoning (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup softened cream cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions and jalapenos until softened (5-6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in chicken broth, corn, black beans, taco seasoning, and chicken breasts. Bring to a gentle bubble.
- Simmer covered for about 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through; shred the chicken with two forks.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually mix in cheddar cheese and cream cheese until smooth.
- Season to taste before serving with desired toppings like crispy tortilla strips or fresh cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
