Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. With a blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy cheese, it offers a hearty meal that warms the soul. Whether you’re using fresh chicken, leftovers, or even rotisserie chicken, this soup is adaptable for any occasion. The addition of cheddar and cream cheese elevates it to a whole new level of comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be made in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the stove top or the Crock Pot, this soup adapts to your cooking style.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Use up leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time and reduce waste.
• Customizable Toppings: You can easily personalize your bowl with toppings like avocado, cilantro, or crispy tortilla strips.

Tools and Preparation

For making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Crock Pot (if using slow cooker method)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Crock Pot: Great for hands-off cooking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
• Cutting board & knife: Having these tools ensures safe and efficient chopping of your vegetables.

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!

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)

Broth & Chicken

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

Seasonings & Dairy

• 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)

Toppings

• Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add diced onions and jalapeño peppers. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until they soften, then add diced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garnish ingredients into the pot. Start with about 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can adjust later based on your preference.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid boiling too rapidly as this will toughen the chicken; slow cooking keeps it juicy.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes, check if the chicken is cooked through (timing may vary based on thickness). Remove it from the pot and use two forks to shred before returning it back into the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheese

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

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup and add any additional seasonings if necessary. Garnish as desired before serving hot!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado slices – Add creamy avocado for a rich texture.
• Chopped cilantro – Fresh cilantro brightens the flavors and adds a pop of color.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime juice elevates the taste with a zesty kick.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla strips – These add a satisfying crunch and traditional flair.
• Shredded cheese – Extra cheese on top creates an indulgent finish.
• Sour cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spices with creaminess.

Serve with Sides

• Cornbread – This slightly sweet bread complements the savory soup well.
• Rice – White or brown rice can help soak up the delicious broth.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To achieve the best version of this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh produce enhances flavor and nutrition.
• Control spice levels – Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
• Slow cook for tenderness – Cooking chicken gently keeps it juicy and flavorful.
• Experiment with toppings – Try different garnishes like jalapenos or feta cheese for variety.
• Make it ahead of time – The soup flavors deepen if made a day in advance.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Enjoying this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice – Flavored with spices, this dish is perfect for soaking up the soup’s broth.
2. Guacamole – Creamy and rich, it offers a smooth contrast to the soup’s texture.
3. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy chips paired with zesty salsa make for an exciting appetizer.
4. Cheesy Quesadillas – Stuffed with cheese and veggies, they offer a satisfying side option.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring extra nutrients to your meal.
6. Simple Green Salad – A refreshing salad adds lightness and freshness alongside the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Avoiding these will enhance the overall flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it tough. Instead, aim for a gentle simmer and remove once it’s fully cooked.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not using enough seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings, especially towards the end of cooking.
• Ignoring Cheese Temperature: Adding cold cream cheese or cheddar can cause clumping. Let them warm slightly before stirring into the soup for a smoother texture.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap broth or canned goods can affect flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken broth and fresh ingredients when possible.
• Not Garnishing: Skipping garnishes like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips misses an opportunity for added flavor and presentation. Always finish with a garnish for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier?

To increase the heat in your soup, add more jalapeno peppers or extra hot sauce during cooking. Adjust gradually to reach your desired spice level.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase cooking time by about 10 minutes and ensure it’s fully cooked before shredding.

What toppings go well with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Popular toppings include avocado slices, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crispy tortilla strips for added crunch.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 35 minutes to cook, resulting in a total time of about 45 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or spices based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or something quick for dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Give it a try today!