Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing option for game day, this soup checks all the boxes. It combines tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty spices, creating a delightful blend of flavors. The addition of cheddar and cream cheese adds a silky richness that makes each spoonful irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken to suit your schedule and taste preferences.
• Flavor Packed: With spices like cumin and cayenne pepper, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Creamy Indulgence: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a luxuriously smooth texture that elevates this dish.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools. Each tool plays a vital role in creating the perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring that your ingredients cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps prevent sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial to achieving the right balance of flavors in your soup.

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!

Soup Base

• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (diced)
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
• 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 Component

• 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.)

Creamy Finish

• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)

Serving Suggestion

• Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno peppers, sautéing for about 5–6 minutes until soft. Then add the diced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for the cheddar cheese and cream cheese into the pot. Start with about 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can adjust to taste later.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Allow the soup to gradually come to a gentle bubble while partially covering it with a lid. It’s important not to boil the chicken too rapidly as it may become tough.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20–25 minutes, check if the chicken is cooked through. Remove it from the pot, shred using two forks, then return it back to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low before gradually adding in the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Taste your soup before serving; add any additional seasonings you prefer. Garnish with tortilla strips or toppings of choice before enjoying!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that elevate this dish even further.

Add Crunch with Tortilla Strips

• Use crispy tortilla strips as a topping for added texture and flavor. You can easily make them by frying or baking corn tortillas until they are golden brown.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the soup just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and complements the flavors beautifully.

Serve with Avocado Slices

• Adding slices of ripe avocado gives a creamy texture and a rich flavor that pairs well with the spiciness of the soup.

Pair with Lime Wedges

• Offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.

Include Cheese Crumbles

• For extra indulgence, top each bowl with crumbled queso fresco or additional shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned options.
• Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by varying the amount of jalapeno or hot sauce you add, catering to your taste preferences.
• Slow Cook for Flavor: If using a Crock Pot, let it cook on low for several hours to develop deeper flavors in the soup.
• Shred Chicken Properly: Ensure chicken is shredded finely for better distribution throughout the soup, making each bite flavorful.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like sour cream or diced green onions for added layers of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Complement your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal without overshadowing its flavors.

1. Mexican Rice
   A flavorful rice dish seasoned with spices and herbs makes an excellent companion, soaking up the soup’s broth beautifully.

2. Cornbread Muffins
   Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup, perfect for dipping.

3. Simple Green Salad
   A fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the soup.

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   Classic grilled cheese sandwiches are great for dipping into the soup while adding a comforting touch to your meal.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and cheese complement the flavors in the soup while offering a hearty addition.

6. Chips and Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa provide an enjoyable appetizer that sets the tone for your meal.

7. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your table while enhancing overall meal satisfaction.

8. Guacamole
   This creamy avocado dip pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or as an accompaniment to your soup for an extra layer of richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using tough chicken: Overcooking or using the wrong cut can lead to dry chicken. Opt for boneless breasts and cook gently to maintain juiciness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping proper seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go, and adjust spices to ensure a flavorful dish.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Adding shredded cheese too fast can cause clumping. Gradually sprinkle it in while stirring for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Not simmering enough: Rushing the cooking process can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Let your soup simmer gently for better taste and texture.
• Wrong broth choice: Using low-quality or unsalted broth can affect flavor. Choose a rich, high-quality chicken broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; label with the date.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup creamy?

The addition of cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that enhances the soup’s overall flavor.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken is perfect for making this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup even quicker.

How spicy is the Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of jalapeno pepper and hot sauce used. Start with less if you prefer a milder soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with beans or vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to create a delicious vegetarian version of this soup.

What toppings can I add to my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Consider adding avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only easy to make but also wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re using fresh ingredients or leftovers, it adapts beautifully to your pantry staples. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Give it a try—you’ll love its comforting flavors!