This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a hearty meal, this soup will satisfy your taste buds. The addition of cheddar and cream cheese brings an indulgent twist that sets this recipe apart from traditional tortilla soups.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh chicken, leftovers, or rotisserie chicken to suit your schedule and preferences.
- Creamy Indulgence: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that elevates the soup experience.
- Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices and toppings to match your taste—add more heat with jalapenos or hot sauce.
- Great for Meal Prep: This soup can be made in advance and reheated, making it excellent for meal prep enthusiasts.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot allows for even cooking and holds all the ingredients comfortably.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for 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!
For the Base
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
Beans and Vegetables
- 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)
Broth and Seasonings
- 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 Creaminess
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)
Accompaniments
- 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 a large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened, then add the diced 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 ingredients. Start with 2 Tbsp. of Taco Seasoning; you can always adjust to taste later.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Let the soup gradually come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid boiling too rapidly to keep the chicken tender.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
After about 20–25 minutes, remove the chicken once it’s fully cooked through—timing may vary based on thickness. Shred using two forks before returning it to the soup.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Reduce heat to low and gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese along with softened cream cheese. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup, adding any additional seasonings as needed before garnishing and serving! Enjoy your delicious bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.
Garnish and Toppings
- Avocado slices – Fresh avocado adds creaminess and richness.
- Cilantro – Chopped cilantro gives a fresh flavor that complements the soup.
- Lime wedges – Squeezing lime juice over the soup enhances the flavors with a zesty kick.
Accompaniments
- Corn or Flour Tortillas – Serve warm tortillas on the side for dipping or topping.
- Crusty Bread – A slice of crusty bread makes for a hearty accompaniment to soak up the delicious broth.
- Cheese Crisps – These crunchy snacks add texture and extra cheesiness to your meal.
Drinks
- Iced Tea – A refreshing drink that pairs well with the soup’s warmth.
- Sparkling Water – Offers a light, bubbly contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To create an exceptional Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve a rich flavor and perfect consistency every time.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture compared to canned options.
- Adjust spice levels – Tailor the amount of jalapeno and hot sauce based on your heat preference.
- Slow cook for tenderness – Cooking chicken slowly prevents it from becoming tough, ensuring juicy meat.
- Experiment with cheeses – Try different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for varied flavors.
- Taste as you go – Adjust seasonings during cooking to suit your taste buds perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Mexican Rice – Flavored with spices, this rice complements the soup beautifully.
- Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa create a fun contrast.
- Guacamole – This creamy dip pairs perfectly with the flavors of the soup.
- Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad that adds protein and fiber to your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness alongside the savory soup.
- Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies add an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup even better.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing onions and peppers enhances flavor. Don’t rush; let them cook until softened.
- Using raw chicken too quickly: Adding chicken too soon can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your soup reaches a gentle bubble first.
- Not adjusting seasonings: Tasting is essential! Always taste your soup before serving, so you can adjust spices and flavors.
- Overcooking the cheese: To keep the soup creamy, add cheese at a lower heat. Stir gently to avoid clumping.
- Ignoring storage tips: Proper storage keeps your soup fresh. Use airtight containers for fridge or freezer storage.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. This helps maintain creaminess without curdling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover or rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred it and add it toward the end of cooking.
Is there a vegetarian option for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beans or additional veggies and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I spice up my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
For extra heat, add more jalapenos or cayenne pepper. Fresh lime juice also adds a nice kick!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Certainly! The flavors develop nicely overnight. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love, perfect for any occasion!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly balances rich textures with zesty notes. Ideal for chilly evenings, this hearty soup combines succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a touch of creamy indulgence from cheddar and cream cheese. It’s versatile enough to accommodate busy weeknights or casual gatherings, and the customizable spice levels ensure it appeals to everyone’s palate. Serve it with warm tortillas or your favorite garnishes for an elevated dining experience.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can corn (15 oz, drained)
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz, undrained)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ⅓ cup cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté the onions and jalapeno for about 5–6 minutes until softened; add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the tomato paste, corn, diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the chicken in the simmering soup for about 20–25 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken to shred it using two forks and return it to the pot.
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar and cream cheese until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Add more spices or hot sauce if you prefer extra heat. Use leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time. Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a unique twist.