This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for cozy gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this recipe offers versatility by using fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken. With its rich cheddar and cream cheese base, it stands out as a comforting dish you can enjoy any time of year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever chicken you have on hand—fresh, leftover, or from the store.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese gives this soup a luxurious feel.
- Flavorful: Packed with spices like cumin and cayenne pepper, each bite is bursting with taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking even more enjoyable. Below are essential items to help you prepare your creamy chicken tortilla soup with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups evenly without burning.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables, making prep quick and easy.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Good for stirring without damaging your pot’s surface.
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)
Spices and 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)
To Serve
- 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 or Dutch oven. Add the diced onions and jalapeno peppers, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes until they soften. 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, cream cheese, and garnish ingredients into the pot. Start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; you can adjust to taste later.
Step 3: Simmer Slowly
Let the soup come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid boiling too rapidly to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
After about 20-25 minutes—when cooked through—remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into pieces before returning it to the soup.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese
Reduce heat to low, gradually adding in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir until everything is melted together smoothly.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup! Adjust seasonings as needed before garnishing and serving hot with your choice of tortillas.
Enjoy this comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a light snack, there are plenty of serving options to enhance this delicious soup.
Top with Fresh Ingredients
- Avocado slices – Add creaminess and a fresh flavor to each bowl.
- Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro for an aromatic touch.
- Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors.
Pair with Crunchy Tortillas
- Tortilla chips – Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.
- Homemade tortilla strips – Fry or bake thinly sliced tortillas for a delicious homemade option.
Add Extra Cheese
- Shredded cheese – Top each serving with more cheddar or a Mexican blend for extra richness.
- Queso fresco – Crumble queso fresco on top for a delightful creamy finish.
Serve as a Meal
- With rice – Offer cooked rice on the side or stir it into the soup for a filling option.
- In bread bowls – Serve in hollowed-out bread rolls for an impressive presentation.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To ensure your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and spices will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Control the heat – Cook the chicken gently to keep it tender and juicy; avoid boiling.
- Experiment with spices – Adjust spices like cumin and cayenne to suit your taste preferences.
- Blend for smoothness – For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before adding cheese.
- Taste as you go – Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving; this keeps flavors balanced.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Cornbread – This sweet, moist bread complements the savory soup beautifully.
- Mexican Rice – Flavorful rice adds heartiness and pairs perfectly with tortilla soup.
- Guacamole – Creamy guacamole provides additional richness and flavor contrast.
- Chips and Salsa – A classic combination that adds crunch and zest to your meal.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Crispy sandwiches offer a delightful dipping experience.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp salad balances the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using tough chicken – If you boil the chicken too rapidly, it can become tough. Cook it slowly for tender results.
- Overcooking vegetables – Sautéing the vegetables for too long can lead to mushiness. Stick to 5-6 minutes for onions and peppers.
- Skipping seasoning – Not adding enough seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Neglecting cream cheese – Adding cold cream cheese directly can create lumps. Make sure it’s softened before mixing into the soup.
- Not garnishing – Skipping garnishes like cilantro or avocado can lessen the flavor impact. Garnish generously for extra flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers for storage.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes) until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup that might help you out!
What is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a rich, flavorful soup made with chicken, cream cheese, and spices, topped with tortillas and cheese.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this creamy soup, making it quick and easy.
How spicy is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
The spice level can be adjusted by using more or less jalapeno and hot sauce according to your preference.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Try this recipe today to enjoy a cozy bowl of warmth!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm and indulgent dish that combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese and tender chicken with a medley of spices to create a bowlful of comfort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this easy recipe can be adapted to use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, making it a versatile option for any occasion. With its creamy texture and zesty undertones, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it hot alongside crunchy tortilla chips or top it with fresh avocado and cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy the heartwarming goodness of this delightful soup any time of year.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (15 oz) corn
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ⅓ cup cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and jalapeno; sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add corn, diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and chicken breasts to the pot. Season with taco seasoning and stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover partially, and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, then return it to the soup.
- Lower the heat and gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese until fully melted.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
