Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that warms the soul, you’ve found it! This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a family favorite in my home. It’s not just easy to whip up on busy weeknights, but it also brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re using fresh chicken, leftovers, or even rotisserie chicken, this soup is packed with flavor and creamy goodness thanks to the cheddar and cream cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cook time, this soup comes together effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, while adults will appreciate the rich flavors—everyone wins!
• Flexible Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Fresh chicken works great, but rotisserie or leftover chicken makes it even easier.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch at once; it stores well in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Rich and creamy with a hint of spice, this soup is sure to become your go-to comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. You likely have most of these items already! Here’s what you need for the Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:

• 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 parts about this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, use cooked turkey or even shredded vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapenos or your favorite chili peppers to kick up the spice level!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for added flavor or leave out the cheese entirely for a lighter version.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add your diced onions and jalapeno peppers. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until they soften. Then add in the diced garlic and cook for another minute. Sautéing these ingredients brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, add all remaining ingredients except for the cheddar cheese and cream cheese into the pot. This includes corn, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and your choice of chicken. I suggest starting with just two tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can always adjust later based on your taste preferences!

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Allow the soup to come to a gentle simmer while partially covering it with a lid. It’s crucial not to let it boil too rapidly because that could make your chicken tough! Taking your time here ensures everything cooks beautifully and keeps those flavors rich.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes, check that your chicken is fully cooked through—it should be tender enough to shred easily with two forks. Remove it from the pot, shred it up, and return it back into the mix.

Step 5: Add Cheese for Creaminess

Reduce your heat to low and start adding in both the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese gradually. Stir until everything melts together into a creamy delight! This step is where all that indulgent creaminess comes from.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Give your soup a taste test! Adjust any seasonings as needed before serving warm bowls garnished with tortilla strips or any toppings you like—avocado slices are always a hit!

Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making a delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is all about the little details. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

• Sauté your aromatics well: Cooking the onions, peppers, and garlic until they’re fragrant enhances the flavor base of your soup. This step builds depth in taste that makes each spoonful delightful.
• Control the heat: Keeping the soup at a gentle bubble rather than a rolling boil helps maintain the chicken’s tenderness. This method prevents it from becoming tough and dry, resulting in juicy chicken pieces throughout your soup.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Start with less taco seasoning and add more as needed, allowing you to customize the spice level to your preference. This flexibility means everyone can enjoy a bowl that suits their palate!
• Incorporate fresh ingredients: If you have access to fresh cilantro or lime juice, add them just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. These fresh components brighten the dish and elevate its overall taste.
• Use leftovers creatively: If you have leftover chicken or veggies, don’t hesitate to toss them into the mix! This not only reduces waste but also makes your soup even heartier and more satisfying.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience for the senses! Presenting it with thoughtful garnishes and side dishes can transform dinner into a celebration.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the spiciness.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop brings creaminess and coolness to balance out the flavors.
• Crispy tortilla strips: These provide a crunchy texture contrast that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread pairs beautifully with soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Mexican rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice complements the soup’s richness while adding another layer of flavor.
• Simple garden salad: A light salad with fresh greens and lime vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the warm soup.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: The creamy guacamole alongside crunchy chips creates a perfect appetizer before diving into the main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around this comforting Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup! Enjoy every tasty spoonful with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, consider freezing without cream cheese, adding it during reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds great flavor. Just shred it and toss it into your soup during the last few minutes of cooking.

How can I make my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier?

If you love a little heat, feel free to increase the amount of jalapeño or hot sauce. You can also add more cayenne pepper or even some diced green chilies for an extra kick!

What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use cashew cream or coconut cream as a substitute. For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt (added after removing from heat) for that creamy texture.

Is this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use corn tortillas and check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free, this soup is a great gluten-free option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it with loved ones, I’m sure it’ll be a hit. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!