Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for cozy fall evenings. This soup combines creamy goodness with a burst of Tex-Mex flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings. It’s not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from weeknight meals to festive celebrations. Enjoy the comforting warmth and rich taste of this creamy chicken tortilla soup that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy days.
  • Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with spices and fresh ingredients, each bite bursts with flavor.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add toppings to fit your taste preferences.
  • Healthy Choice: Loaded with protein and fiber, this soup is satisfying without sacrificing health.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly and holding all ingredients comfortably.
  • Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without mess.
  • Sharp knife: Ensures precision when dicing onions and peppers, making prep work quicker.

Ingredients

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of my favorite fall soup recipes. It’s creamy, delicious, and filled with loads of tasty Tex-Mex ingredients! Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

For the Base

  • 3 tbsp crushed corn tortilla chips (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 yellow onion (diced)
  • 2 jalapeño peppers (diced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 29 oz. fire-roasted diced tomatoes and green chilies (such as Rotel – 2 14.5-oz. cans)
  • 11 oz. canned corn kernels (1 can)
  • 14.5 oz. canned black beans (rinsed and drained – 1 can)

For Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ⅛ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)

For Protein & Creaminess

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3 cups cubed cooked chicken)
  • 2 limes (1 juiced and 1 cut into wedges)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature; non-dairy works well too)

For Serving

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • Shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • Corn tortilla chips
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sliced avocado

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, jalapeños, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the chicken broth along with fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Stir in canned corn, black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add raw chicken breasts to the pot. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Remove chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return shredded chicken back into the soup.

Step 5: Stir in Cream & Season

Mix in heavy cream and lime juice. Season with kosher salt and black pepper according to your taste.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls, garnishing with shredded cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges, or avocado as desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal experience and make it even more satisfying.

Toppings

  • Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of shredded Mexican blend cheese adds a rich flavor and creaminess.
  • Corn Tortilla Chips – Crushed or whole, these chips provide a satisfying crunch and complement the soup’s texture.
  • Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream brings tanginess and enhances the creamy aspect of the soup.
  • Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, making your bowl look vibrant.
  • Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado slices are perfect for adding richness and healthy fats to each bite.

Accompaniments

  • Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over your soup for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
  • Jalapeño Slices – For those who love a spicy kick, sliced jalapeños can be added for an extra layer of heat.
  • Hot Sauce – Provide a variety of hot sauces on the side so guests can customize their spice level.
Creamy

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup involves some key tips to enhance its flavors and texture. Follow these suggestions for a delicious outcome.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly improve the flavor profile of your soup.
  • Adjust Spice Levels – Modify chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference for the best balance.
  • Incorporate Leftover Chicken – Using leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds great flavor to your soup.
  • Blend for Smoothness – If you prefer a smoother texture, blend part of the soup before adding back in the chicken pieces.
  • Garnish Generously – Don’t skimp on toppings; they add both flavor and visual appeal to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can turn a simple meal into a feast. Here are some delightful options that complement this flavorful soup perfectly.

  1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with spices enhances the meal’s overall flavor profile.
  2. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip pairs well with tortilla chips and balances out the soup’s heat.
  3. Chips & Salsa – A classic combination, providing crunch and zest with every bite.
  4. Quesadillas – Cheese-filled tortillas that are crispy on the outside make for a hearty addition to your meal.
  5. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting contrast to the spicy soup.
  6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn topped with cheese and spices brings vibrant flavors that complement the soup well.
  7. Crispy Salad – A fresh salad with crunchy veggies offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.

  • Using too much liquid – Adding excess broth can make the soup too watery. Follow the recipe measurements closely for a creamy texture.
  • Skipping spice adjustments – Not tasting and adjusting spices may lead to bland soup. Always taste before serving and customize the seasoning to your liking.
  • Not cooking chicken thoroughly – Undercooked chicken can be unsafe. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Ignoring garnishes – Skipping toppings like avocado or cheese can lessen flavor. Garnishes enhance both taste and presentation, so don’t skip them!
  • Rushing the cooking process – Cooking on high heat instead of medium can lead to uneven flavors. Take your time for best results and let the ingredients meld together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • The soup lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

  • Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
  • Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
  • Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Yes! Using cubed cooked chicken is a great way to save time while preparing this creamy chicken tortilla soup.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk as alternatives in your creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe for a lighter version.

Is this soup spicy?

The spiciness depends on your choice of jalapeños and optional red pepper flakes. You can omit these if you prefer a milder flavor.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, or replace black beans with pinto beans based on your preference!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just comforting but also versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Give it a try today!

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Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup


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  • Author: isabella
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Warm up your evenings with this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, a delightful combination of creamy texture and zesty Tex-Mex flavors. Perfect for cozy fall nights or busy weeknights, this hearty soup is not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 29 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes and green chilies
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 jalapeño peppers
  • Corn tortilla chips (for serving)
  • Shredded Mexican blend cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Sauté diced onion, jalapeños, and minced garlic in vegetable oil until translucent.
  2. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and spices; bring to a boil.
  3. Add chicken breasts; reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked.
  4. Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and lime juice; season to taste.
  6. Serve hot with desired toppings like cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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