Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this soup delivers rich flavors and creamy textures that will satisfy everyone at the table. With the ease of preparation on either the stove top or in a Crock Pot, you can enjoy this delicious recipe with fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken. The addition of cheddar and cream cheese brings a unique indulgence that elevates this classic soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or leftover chicken to customize it to your fridge’s contents.
• Creamy Indulgence: The blend of cheddar and cream cheese gives each bowl a smooth, luxurious texture.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with chicken, beans, and veggies, this soup is sure to keep you satisfied.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze for later!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools. Having these on hand will help streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for balanced flavors.

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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

For the Soup

• 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.)

For Creaminess

• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)

To Serve

• Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno peppers, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes until softened. Add the minced 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. I recommend starting with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; you can adjust to taste later.

Step 3: Cook Slowly

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid rapid boiling as it may toughen the chicken; cooking slowly keeps it juicy.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes, remove cooked chicken from the pot once it’s no longer pink in the center. Use two forks to shred it before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese while stirring until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 6: Taste & Serve

Taste your soup and add any additional seasonings if necessary. Garnish as desired with tortilla strips or extra cheese before serving!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Toppings

• Avocado slices – Fresh avocado adds creaminess and a light flavor.
• Crispy tortilla strips – Homemade or store-bought, these add crunch to each bite.
• Chopped cilantro – A sprinkle of cilantro brings a fresh, herbal note.
• Lime wedges – Squeeze lime juice over the soup for a zesty kick.

As a Meal

• Serve with rice – A side of white or brown rice makes the meal more filling.
• Pair with a salad – A light green salad complements the richness of the soup.
• Accompany with bread – Crusty bread or rolls are perfect for dipping.

In Bowls

• Individual bowls – Serve each guest their own bowl for an inviting presentation.
• Family-style serving – Place the pot on the table for everyone to serve themselves.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup just right involves some careful steps. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Cook chicken slowly – Low and slow cooking keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
• Adjust seasoning gradually – Start with less taco seasoning and adjust according to taste.
• Incorporate cheese at low heat – Adding cheese gradually over low heat prevents it from clumping.
• Taste as you go – Regularly sample the soup for seasoning adjustments throughout cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving sides alongside your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate the meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread – Sweet or savory cornbread pairs well with the spicy notes of the soup.
2. Guacamole – This creamy dip provides additional flavor and texture contrast.
3. Pico de gallo – Fresh salsa adds brightness and freshness to your meal.
4. Mexican street corn salad – This flavorful side complements the soup beautifully.
5. Quesadillas – Cheese-filled tortillas are easy to prepare and make a great pairing.
6. Roasted vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrients to your plate.
7. Rice and beans – A classic combination that rounds out your meal nicely.
8. Chips and salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips with zesty salsa make for a fun appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for the best results:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the onions and peppers can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to sauté them first.

• Using Unseasoned Chicken: If you use plain chicken without seasoning, your soup may taste bland. Season your chicken well or add spices directly to the broth.

• Boiling the Chicken Too Fast: Cooking chicken at a high temperature can make it tough. Cook it slowly over low heat for tender, juicy pieces.

• Not Tasting as You Go: Failing to taste your soup before serving can result in unbalanced flavors. Taste frequently and adjust seasonings as needed.

• Overloading with Cheese: While cheese adds creaminess, too much can overwhelm the dish. Start with less cheese and add more gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as the soup may expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time while making this soup.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option if you prefer not to use cream cheese.

How spicy is this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeno and hot sauce you add. Adjust these ingredients according to your preference!

Can I add vegetables to my soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken my soup?

If you’d like a thicker consistency, consider adding more cream cheese or using a slurry made from cornstarch mixed with water.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips. Whether served on a chilly evening or as a quick lunch option, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!