Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill. The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that elevates the classic tortilla soup. Plus, it can be made with fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, making it versatile and convenient for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flexible Ingredients: Use whatever chicken you have on hand—fresh, shredded, or even rotisserie.
• Rich Flavor: The mixture of spices and creamy additions make each spoonful delightful.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to make this process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups as it allows for even heating and ample space for ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables and chicken efficiently.
• Knife: A good quality knife ensures precise cutting and reduces preparation time.

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Ingredients

To make this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 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)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper. Sauté these for about 5–6 minutes until they’re tender. Then add the diced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT for the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garnish ingredients to the pot. Start with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can add more later if desired.

Step 3: Simmer

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Make sure not to boil it too fast; this keeps the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

After about 20–25 minutes, check that the chicken is cooked through. Remove it from the soup and shred it using two forks before returning it to the pot.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese while stirring until everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup; add any additional seasonings as needed before garnishing and serving hot!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a delightful experience, especially when you add a few tasty accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup and make it even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Cilantro

• Top each bowl with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and a touch of freshness.

Add Sliced Avocado

• Creamy avocado slices bring richness and a smooth texture that complements the soup beautifully.

Serve with Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch while providing a great way to scoop up the soup.

Garnish with Lime Wedges

• Squeezing lime over the soup enhances the flavor with a zesty kick that brightens every spoonful.

Include Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances out the spices in the soup.

Offer Shredded Cheese on the Side

• Provide shredded cheese as an option for those who want extra cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance your dish and ensure it’s creamy and flavorful.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For quick prep, utilize rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds extra depth of flavor.

• Adjust Spice Level: Start with less hot sauce and cayenne pepper; you can always add more later to suit your taste.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps meld flavors together and keeps the chicken moist.

• Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varied taste profiles.

• Incorporate Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and texture in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: This sweet, fluffy bread complements the savory flavors of the soup perfectly.

2. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice seasoned with spices makes for a hearty addition to your meal.

3. Guacamole: This smooth avocado dip pairs well with tortilla chips and adds creaminess alongside your soup.

4. Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh greens balances out the richness of the soup while adding crunch.

5. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with vegetables or chicken make a fun side that goes well with any soup.

6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring earthiness and color to your plate, enhancing both nutrition and presentation.

7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a filling complement that’s also visually appealing.

8. Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing that provides crunch and fresh flavors, perfect for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a breeze, but there are some pitfalls to watch out for. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Sauté Step – Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always start with onions and peppers to build flavor.

• Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking chicken too long makes it tough. Monitor cooking time and remove it as soon as it’s fully cooked.

• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments – Not tasting your soup before serving can leave it under-seasoned. Always taste and modify seasoning before garnishing.

• Using Low-Quality Broth – A poor-quality broth can ruin the soup’s flavor. Use a good quality chicken broth for the best results.

• Not Allowing Enough Time to Simmer – Rushing the simmering process prevents flavors from melding together. Allow your soup to simmer gently for better taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

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

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this soup, saving you time.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream alternative if you want a lighter option.

How spicy is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

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

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better after the flavors meld together overnight in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different veggies or spices based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy!