When I first whipped up this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, I couldn’t believe how simple it was to create such a comforting, flavorful dish. After that first spoonful, the combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with the bold spice of taco seasoning instantly made this soup my go-to recipe for cozy evenings.
Not to mention, the variety of toppings you can add makes every bowl unique! Whether you’re craving something hearty to warm up on a cold day or looking to use up some leftover chicken, this is the meal that delivers satisfaction every single time. Trust me, after making it once, you’ll want to double the batch next time just to have some for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Super Easy to Make
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this soup is foolproof. You just sauté, simmer, and stir in a few ingredients for an incredibly flavorful meal. It’s a great option for those busy weeknights!
Versatile Ingredients
This dish adapts to what you have on hand! Use fresh or rotisserie chicken, canned or frozen corn, or even mix up the beans. You can also control the spice level to suit your taste, making it a dish for everyone.
Perfect for Leftovers and Meal Prep
Got leftover chicken? Toss it in this soup and turn it into something special! Plus, it freezes like a dream, so you can make it ahead and enjoy it for weeks.
Loaded with Toppings
The toppings are where the fun begins! From crispy tortilla strips to diced avocado, shredded cheese, and jalapeños, the garnishes take this soup to a whole new level.
Rich, Creamy Comfort
The combination of cream cheese and cheddar makes this dish indulgently creamy. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect after a long day.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- Butter
- Yellow onion
- Jalapeño pepper
- Garlic
- Tomato paste
- Corn
- Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Black beans
- Chicken broth
- Chicken breasts or shredded chicken
- Cayenne pepper
- Cumin
- Taco seasoning
- Hot sauce
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Cream cheese, softened
- Tortillas for garnish
Variations
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar substitutes to enjoy the same creamy texture.
- Add Protein: Experiment with ground turkey or even shrimp for a twist!
- Boost the Vegetables: Toss in some chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make It Spicier: Add more cayenne or top it with sliced fresh jalapeños.
- Sugar-Free Option: Check labels on canned goods (like Rotel and corn) to avoid added sugars.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Perfect for cooking and blending all the flavors together.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the veggies like onions, garlic, and jalapeños.
- Measuring Spoons: To scoop out the perfect amount of spices.
- Ladle: For serving generous bowls of goodness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Making this soup is easier than you’d expect. Grab your ingredients and get ready for a kitchen adventure! 🌟
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and jalapeños, letting them soften for 4 minutes. Toss in minced garlic, and cook for another minute. The aroma at this stage? Absolutely heavenly! 🧄✨
Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Mix in the tomato paste, corn, tomatoes, black beans, taco seasoning, cumin, cayenne, and hot sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. This is where those bold, zesty flavors start to build. 🌶️
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and add your chicken breasts. Bring the soup to a gentle bubble, partially covering the pot. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is tender and juicy. Shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot. 🍴🍗
Step 4: Add the Creamy Goodness
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir until the soup is smooth and creamy. Watch that cheese melt and bring the dish to life! 🧀😋
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado chunks, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream (if you like). The fun is in customizing it your way! 🌮🥑
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Room-Temperature Cheese: Allow your cream cheese and cheddar to come to room temperature for smoother melting.
- Shred It Fresh: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged options. Take the extra step, and you won’t regret it.
- Low Heat for Creamy Results: Avoid adding cheese to a boiling soup; the dairy could separate. Low heat is key for a silky finish.
- Taste Adjustments: Before serving, taste and adjust spices to suit your preference. A little extra hot sauce can go a long way!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Presentation is everything when it comes to soups! Serve your creamy chicken tortilla soup in colorful bowls and top it off with your favorite garnishes. Crispy tortilla strips add a fantastic crunch, while avocado and shredded cheese boost creaminess. Want to impress guests? Pair this soup with freshly baked cornbread or a side of tortilla chips for dipping. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the stomach!
Nutritional Information
Each serving is packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying meal. Here’s a quick rundown per cup of soup:
- Calories: 204
- Protein: 13 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fat: 10 g
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re short on time during the week, this soup is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to do it right!
Prepare the soup ahead and store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days for quick lunches or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, use gentle heat on the stove to maintain that creamy texture. For a fresh twist, add toppings just before serving to enjoy the crunch and freshness they bring.
With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and endless topping options, this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is bound to become a favorite in your household. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it!