Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Perfect for cozy nights or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, this soup combines tender chicken with creamy goodness from cheddar and cream cheese. Whether you choose to make it on the stove top or in a Crock Pot, it promises a satisfying meal that is both easy and versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken based on what you have at home, reducing food waste.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a luscious mouthfeel that elevates the traditional tortilla soup.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of jalapeno pepper and hot sauce according to your taste.
• Hearty and Filling: With protein-rich chicken and fiber-packed beans, this soup is not only delicious but also satisfying enough for a meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring ease and safety during preparation.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting through ingredients like onions and peppers quick and efficient.

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 & Legumes

• 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 & Chicken

• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)

Spices & Creaminess

• 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 oz. packet taco seasoning (about 3 Tbsp.)

Final Touches

• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)
• Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onion and jalapeno pepper, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes until they soften. Stir in the 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 this later based on your preference.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Keep an eye on the chicken; cooking it too quickly can make it tough. Simmering slowly helps maintain its juiciness.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes—check that the chicken is cooked through—remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken before returning it back to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheeses

Reduce heat to low, then gradually sprinkle in both shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until everything melts into a smooth, creamy texture.

Step 6: Taste & Serve

Taste your soup for seasoning adjustments; feel free to add more spices if desired. Once satisfied with flavors, garnish as you like before serving!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal experience. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these ideas will enhance the enjoyment of this delicious soup.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Avocado slices – Creamy avocado complements the soup’s richness and adds healthy fats.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro provides a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A dollop adds creaminess and tang to each bowl.

Serve with Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips – These can be crushed over the soup for added texture and crunch.
• Homemade tortilla strips – Fry or bake corn tortillas cut into strips for a fresh, crispy touch.

Pair with a Salad

• Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens helps balance the richness of the soup.
• Mexican-style corn salad – The sweetness of corn pairs well with the spicy flavors in the soup.

Offer Warm Bread

• Crusty bread rolls – Soft, warm rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Garlic bread – The garlicky flavor enhances each spoonful of soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve that creamy, flavorful consistency every time.

• Use quality broth – A good-quality chicken broth adds depth of flavor and richness to the soup.
• Shred chicken properly – Shredding the chicken finely allows it to mix well with other ingredients, enhancing texture.
• Control heat carefully – Cooking on low heat prevents rapid boiling, keeping chicken tender and juicy.
• Experiment with spices – Adjust taco seasoning according to your taste preference for a customized flavor profile.
• Incorporate fresh lime juice – Adding lime juice at the end brightens up the dish and balances flavors perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Complement your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup with these delightful side dishes. They add variety and enhance your meal experience.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices is a great base to soak up any leftover broth.
2. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and peppers creates a colorful plate.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory soups; consider serving them warm!
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Classic grilled cheese offers a comforting crunch alongside your bowl of soup.
5. Taco Bar Fixings – Set up toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese for interactive fun when serving.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide an attractive and nutritious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much heat: Cooking the soup over high heat can make the chicken tough. Always simmer gently to keep it juicy.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping the spices or taco seasoning will lead to bland soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as you go for the best flavor.
• Not shredding chicken properly: Leaving large pieces of chicken can affect texture. Shred it finely for that creamy consistency throughout.
• Forgetting the cream cheese: Adding cream cheese at the wrong time can lead to clumps. Stir it in slowly once the soup is off heat for a smooth result.
• Ignoring leftovers storage: Not storing leftovers correctly can spoil your soup. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring regularly until hot, which takes about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re looking for more information about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, check out these frequently asked questions.

Can I use leftover chicken for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly! Just shred it and add it when instructed.

What toppings go well with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Consider garnishing with avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, or additional cheese for extra flavor.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or adjust spices according to your taste preference.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken with beans and vegetable broth while using plant-based cream alternatives instead of cream cheese.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious bowl of warmth!