Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or looking for a comforting meal after a long day. It combines the richness of cheddar and cream cheese with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, creating a soup that’s both satisfying and indulgent. This recipe is flexible enough to use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever chicken you have on hand—fresh, leftover, or rotisserie.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: The addition of cheddar and cream cheese makes each bowl luxuriously creamy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: With 13 servings, this soup is great for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
• Customize to Your Taste: Adjust the spice levels with jalapenos and hot sauce to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, having the right tools on hand can make the process easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For this delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (diced)
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste

Canned Goods

• 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

Protein

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

Spices and Seasonings

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

Dairy

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

Garnish

• 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.
* Sauté for about 5–6 minutes until they become soft.
* Add the diced 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 any garnishes.
* Start with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can add more later if desired.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered.
* Avoid rapid boiling; this keeps the chicken juicy.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20–25 minutes, check if the chicken is cooked through.
* Remove it from the soup, shred using two forks, then return it to the pot.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low.
* Gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese while stirring until smooth.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup before serving.
* Adjust seasonings as needed, then garnish with tortilla strips before enjoying!

Now you’re ready to indulge in this hearty bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty gathering, serving suggestions can enhance the experience.

Toppings

• Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and richness to each bowl.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and color.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the soup’s flavors.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides coolness and extra creaminess.
• Tortilla Strips: Crispy tortilla strips add a satisfying crunch on top.

Accompaniments

• Fresh Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the spicy flavors of the soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances the richness with crisp greens.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve alongside rice or quinoa for a heartier meal option.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is full of flavor and texture, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick option, shredded rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less hot sauce, then gradually add more until it suits your palate.
• Slow Cook for Flavor: If using a Crock Pot, let it simmer longer to deepen the flavors.
• Incorporate Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance both taste and nutrition—consider adding bell peppers or zucchini.
• Experiment with Cheese Types: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack for varied flavors in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices and tomatoes, it’s a perfect complement to the soup’s creaminess.
2. Black Bean Salad: A fresh salad made with black beans, corn, and avocados adds texture and nutrition.
3. Guacamole and Chips: The creamy guacamole paired with crispy chips makes for a delightful snack before the main course.
4. Quesadillas: Stuffed with cheese and veggies, quesadillas make an excellent side that everyone loves.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables provide a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds brightness and freshness to each bite of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is simple, but avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish.

• Using too much heat: Cooking the soup on high heat can make the chicken tough. Always cook it on medium heat for a tender result.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can lead to bland soup. Be sure to taste as you go and add more spices if needed.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: Failing to shred the chicken finely can leave large chunks in your soup. Use two forks to shred evenly for better texture.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Dumping all the cheese in at once can cause it to clump. Gradually sprinkle it in while stirring for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned goods or broth can affect the soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until they are tender to retain their texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.

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 in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use leftover chicken for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes! Leftover chicken works great and saves time.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese adds a nice flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add more jalapenos or hot sauce according to your taste preference.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just combine all ingredients except cheeses and cook on low for 6-8 hours, then add cheeses before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding more veggies or spices based on your preference. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is to make!