Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this soup is both rich in flavor and easy to prepare. The combination of cheddar cheese and cream cheese adds an indulgent creaminess, making it a standout choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup can be made in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Options: You can use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, adapting it to what you have on hand.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices, creamy cheeses, and hearty ingredients creates a satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans, corn, and vegetables, this soup is both nutritious and filling.
• Easy Clean-Up: Whether using the stove top or a Crock Pot, the clean-up is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup evenly without overflow.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise cutting of onions, peppers, and other ingredients.

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!

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Chicken

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

For Seasoning

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

For Creaminess

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

For Serving

• 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 your large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno peppers. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until softened. Then 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 garnishes to the pot. Start with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can adjust this later based on your preference.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. This slow cooking process keeps the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes, once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheese

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

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup and add any additional seasonings if necessary. Garnish as desired before serving! Enjoy your deliciously creamy tortilla soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can enhance its flavor and appeal. Here are some delicious ways to elevate your soup experience.

Add Crunch with Tortilla Chips

• Serve crispy tortilla chips on the side for a delightful crunch.
• Crush them and sprinkle on top for added texture.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.
• This adds a burst of freshness that complements the creamy base.

Cheese It Up

• Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving.
• Allow it to melt slightly, creating a gooey topping that enhances flavor.

Squeeze of Lime

• A wedge of lime adds a zesty kick when squeezed over the soup.
• This brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess.

Avocado Slices

• Add creamy avocado slices or cubes for richness.
• They provide a smooth contrast to the spicy elements in the soup.

Sour Cream Drizzle

• A dollop of sour cream can add coolness to each bowl.
• Mix it in for added creaminess and tangy flavor.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Broth: A good chicken broth enhances the overall flavor. Choose low-sodium options for better control over saltiness.
• Shred Chicken Properly: Shred your chicken into bite-sized pieces after cooking. This ensures even distribution throughout the soup.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go! Start with less hot sauce and taco seasoning, then add more according to personal preference.
• Stir Gradually: When adding cheese, stir gradually over low heat. This prevents clumping and helps create a smooth texture.
• Let It Sit: Allow your soup to sit for a few minutes before serving. This lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Correctly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

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

1. Cornbread
   A sweet and moist cornbread complements the soup’s spiciness perfectly. Serve it warm for a comforting addition.
2. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy Mexican rice flavored with spices makes an excellent side dish that pairs well with tortilla soup.
3. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole provides a rich texture that balances the soup’s flavors. Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips.
4. Garden Salad
   A fresh garden salad with crisp vegetables offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. Add a light vinaigrette for extra zing.
5. Quesadillas
   Cheese-filled quesadillas serve as a great pairing that kids love too! Cut them into wedges for easy dipping into the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables add nutrition and flavor diversity, making them an excellent side option alongside your soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans create a hearty complement to your meal, enhancing both texture and taste.
8. Chips and Salsa
   A classic combo; crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make for an exciting appetizer or side option before diving into your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be simple, but avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your soup turns out delicious.

• Using Too Much Heat: Cooking the chicken too quickly can make it tough. Always let it simmer gently for the best texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to bland soup. Always taste and tweak before serving.
• Not Shredding Chicken Properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well, it may not blend into the soup. Use two forks for even shredding.
• Overcooking Cheese: Adding cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Gradually stir in the cheese over low heat for a smooth finish.
• Using Old Ingredients: Stale spices or expired broth can affect flavor. Always check your ingredients for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat while stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves cooking time, adding extra flavor.

What alternatives can I use for cheese?

You can substitute with dairy-free cheese if you prefer a plant-based option. Adjust as needed based on creaminess desired.

How spicy is this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

The spice level varies based on how much jalapeño and hot sauce you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Just store properly as outlined above.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, like avocado or cilantro, and adjust spices according to your preference. Give this comforting recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!