This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout choice that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it an easy meal option for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
- Flavorful: With ingredients like cheddar cheese and cream cheese, each bite is rich and satisfying.
- Versatile: Use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken to suit your needs and preferences.
- Ideal for Any Season: Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re craving something hearty, this soup fits the bill.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items you will need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soup without making a mess.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
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!
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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper. Sauté for about 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 the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garnish items into the pot. Start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; you can adjust later based on your taste.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Let the soup come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid boiling rapidly as this can toughen the chicken; slow cooking keeps it juicy.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
After about 20-25 minutes, remove the chicken once it’s cooked through. Use two forks to shred it before returning it to the soup.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Reduce heat to low and gradually sprinkle in both shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup and add any extra seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer it as a hearty meal or a light appetizer, there are plenty of options to enhance your soup experience.
Garnishes
- Avocado: Fresh avocado slices add creaminess and a nice texture contrast.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a burst of freshness and complements the flavors.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the soup and adds acidity.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the spice.
Tortilla Options
- Crispy Tortilla Strips: Fry or bake tortilla strips for a crunchy topping that adds texture.
- Flour Tortillas: Serve soft flour tortillas on the side, perfect for dipping.
- Corn Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option that pairs well with the soup.
Cheese Choices
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy base.
- Pepper Jack Cheese: For those who enjoy heat, shredded pepper jack offers both spice and creaminess.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To make your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture every time.
- Bold seasoning choices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more cumin or hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste. Opt for fresh jalapenos instead of canned.
- Cook low and slow: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps meld all the flavors beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
- Add cheese gradually: Mixing in cheese slowly prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory soup perfectly; serve it warm with butter.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices adds another layer of flavor to your meal.
- Guacamole: Fresh guacamole not only tastes great but also enhances the soup’s creaminess.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with zesty salsa make an excellent appetizer before diving into the soup.
- Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with veggies or chicken provide additional heartiness alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Using too much heat: Cooking the soup at a high temperature can make the chicken tough. Always cook it on low to medium heat for a tender result.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like cumin and hot sauce to enhance flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the pot for too long can dry it out. Remove it once cooked through, shred it, and then return it to keep it juicy.
- Not allowing enough time for flavors to meld: A quick cook won’t allow the ingredients to blend well. Letting the soup simmer helps develop a richer flavor profile.
- Neglecting garnish options: Skipping garnishes like avocado or cilantro can make your soup less appealing. Adding fresh toppings elevates both presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space in the container as the liquid expands when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally for about 5-10 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure you cook it longer until fully thawed and cooked through.
How can I customize my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or substitute different beans based on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup stores well and is perfect for meal prepping as it reheats beautifully.
What toppings should I use for my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Consider garnishing with avocado, sour cream, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that warms the soul while tantalizing your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, this soup combines tender chicken with a medley of vibrant vegetables and a rich, creamy broth. With the right balance of spices, including cumin and cayenne pepper, each spoonful delivers a satisfying kick. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, this recipe is both versatile and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Top it off with fresh garnishes like avocado, cilantro, or crispy tortilla strips for added texture and flavor. Your family will request this recipe time and again!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can corn (drained)
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 oz. packet taco seasoning
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ⅓ cup cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and jalapeno for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic; cook for another minute.
- Stir in all remaining ingredients except cheeses and garnishes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through; shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
- Lower the heat, gradually add cheddar and cream cheese while stirring until smooth.
- Adjust seasonings as needed before serving with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, try incorporating extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper used.
