Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that warms you from the inside out, let me introduce you to my beloved Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. This soup is like a big hug on a chilly day, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when comfort food is a must. With its creamy texture and delightful blend of spices, it’s no wonder this recipe has found a special place in my kitchen—and hopefully yours too!

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re using fresh chicken, leftovers, or even rotisserie chicken, it comes together effortlessly. Plus, the addition of cheddar and cream cheese makes every spoonful feel indulgent without being overly complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be ready in less than an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild spice level, this soup appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the refrigerator and can easily be reheated for lunch or dinner.
• Creamy Indulgence: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese gives this soup its rich and velvety texture.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can swap in what you have on hand, making it easy to adapt based on your preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create this comforting soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily switch up ingredients based on what you have at home or what flavors you’re craving.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more jalapenos or even some diced serrano peppers!
• Cream alternative: For a lighter version, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt right before serving.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in your pot. Add in the diced onions and jalapeno pepper. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Then, toss in the garlic and cook for one more minute. This step is crucial because cooking these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and flavor.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

Next, add all the remaining ingredients except for the cheddar cheese and cream cheese into the pot. I suggest starting with just 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can adjust it later based on your taste preference. It’s fun to play around with flavors! Allow everything to gradually come to a gentle simmer while keeping the pot partially covered—this helps prevent boiling too rapidly which could toughen the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes, check your chicken—it should be cooked through by now! Timing may vary depending on thickness. Carefully remove it from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it back to the soup.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese

Now comes the best part! Reduce your heat to low and slowly sprinkle in both shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese into the pot. Stir gently until everything is combined and smooth—this will give your soup that creamy indulgence we all love!

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Finally, take a moment to taste your creation! Adjust seasonings as needed—maybe a little more hot sauce or taco seasoning? Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, garnish as desired with tortilla strips or fresh herbs before serving!

I can’t wait for you to try this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup! It’s sure to become a favorite at your table just as it has at mine. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creating a delicious bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be even easier with a few helpful tips!

• Use rotisserie chicken – If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken can save you the hassle of cooking and shredding it yourself while still delivering great flavor.
• Adjust the spice level – Start with less hot sauce and cayenne pepper if you’re serving family or friends who prefer milder flavors. You can always add more heat later!
• Experiment with toppings – Get creative with your garnishes! Avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime can add freshness and enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Make it ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week.
• Customize your broth – If you want to boost the flavor even more, consider making your own chicken broth or using homemade stock to add depth to your soup.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is just as fun as making it! A few simple additions can transform it into an eye-catching meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro – This adds a burst of color and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Sliced avocado – Creamy avocado provides a lovely texture contrast and balances out the spiciness.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime juice just before eating brightens up the entire dish, enhancing all those wonderful flavors.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread – Soft, warm cornbread pairs beautifully with tortilla soup, soaking up all that creamy goodness while adding a hint of sweetness.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping or crumbling on top of your soup for added texture and flavor.
• Mexican rice – A fluffy side of Mexican rice complements the soup perfectly, rounding out your meal with hearty grains seasoned with spices.
• Garden salad – A light garden salad with fresh vegetables offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, adding a healthy balance to your dinner plate.

Now that you’ve got all these tips and serving ideas at your fingertips, you’re ready to make this comforting dish even more delightful. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for those busy weeknights when you need a quick, hearty meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
• Label your container with the date, so you know when to use it by!

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup!

Can I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup with rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it to the soup during cooking for added flavor.

How do I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier?

To amp up the heat, simply add more diced jalapeños or increase the amount of hot sauce. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Can I use other types of cheese in Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes! While cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different twist.

How long does Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly, it lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Simply keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

What toppings go well with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Garnish with tortilla strips, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup becomes a new favorite in your kitchen! It’s not only comforting but also versatile and easy to prepare. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. Happy cooking, and may every spoonful warm your heart!