Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. This flavorful soup is spiced just right with cumin, chili powder, and a hint of heat, making it a satisfying meal for any time of year. The creamy base, paired with crunchy tortilla strips, brings the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

I first made this soup when I was craving something warm and filling for dinner, and it quickly became a family favorite. The aroma of the spices filling the kitchen was enough to make everyone excited to dig in. What’s great about this soup is its versatility—you can top it with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or avocado, making it a customizable dish for everyone to enjoy.

What makes this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup even better is how easy it is to make. With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can whip up a batch of this comforting soup in no time. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to become a go-to recipe!

Perfect for:

• Cozy weeknight dinners
• Meal prep
• Family gatherings
• Comfort food lovers
• Spice lovers

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Here’s why Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup will become your new go-to dish:

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and chicken broth creates a velvety texture, making each spoonful indulgent and satisfying.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices, including cumin, chili powder, and garlic, gives this soup its irresistible flavor.
• Tender Chicken: Shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness to the soup, making it filling enough to be a meal on its own.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your taste and add your favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, or cilantro.
• One-Pot Meal: This easy-to-make soup is a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, undrained (optional for added heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Chicken breasts or thighs are the perfect choice for this soup, providing lean protein and a juicy texture when shredded.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese makes the broth rich and creamy without being overly heavy, giving the soup its velvety texture.
• Spices: The combination of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika (optional) brings depth and warmth to the soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Tortilla chips add the perfect crunch on top, giving this soup a delightful contrast in texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:

Prepare the Soup:

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and green chilies (if using). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Spice it Up: Add the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Shred the Chicken: While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the corn and black beans. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Add the Creaminess: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.

Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado slices, if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Main Course: Enjoy the soup on its own with all the delicious toppings for a comforting meal.
• With a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh salad to add a lighter element to the meal.
• With a Side of Bread: Serve with a warm crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
• For Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge for several days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Additional Tips for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect every time:

• Shred the Chicken: For the best texture, make sure to shred the chicken finely so it absorbs the flavors of the soup.
• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the soup the richest, creamiest texture.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your soup spicier, add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños to the soup.
• Use Homemade Chicken Broth: If you have the time, homemade chicken broth will enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.

Recipe Variations for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:

• Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Tortilla Soup: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Cook the chicken, vegetables, and broth in a slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low. Add the cream cheese and heavy cream towards the end.
• Low-Carb Tortilla Soup: Skip the beans and corn for a low-carb option, or replace them with zucchini or cauliflower.
• Chicken and Avocado Tortilla Soup: Add chunks of fresh avocado to the soup for a creamy, refreshing texture.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken Tortilla Soup: Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist.
• Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tortilla Soup: Stir in a can of Mexican street corn for extra sweetness and a unique flavor.
• Cilantro Lime Chicken Tortilla Soup: Add a handful of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice at the end for a fresh, bright flavor.
• Cheesy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Stir in more cheese, such as Monterrey Jack or pepper jack, for a cheesier version.
• Chicken Tortilla Soup with Rice: Add cooked rice to the soup for a heartier meal.

Freezing and Storage for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding more broth or cream if necessary.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup easier:

• Large Pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the soup and allowing the ingredients to simmer together.
• Shredded Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken or a hand mixer to make it easier.
• Immersion Blender: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to purée the soup base before adding the chicken and cream.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the spices, broth, and cream.
• Ladle: A ladle makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.

Frequently Asked Questions for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it to the soup when you add the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or almond cream.
3. Can I make this soup spicier?
   Absolutely! Add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a spoonful of hot sauce to increase the heat.
4. Can I freeze the soup?
   Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to make the soup even heartier and more nutritious.

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Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and tasty toppings, it’s a meal everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or serving it to a crowd, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and warm you up from the inside out.

This recipe is as simple to prepare as it is delicious, making it perfect for everything from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it on your own, this creamy chicken tortilla soup will deliver warmth and flavor in every bowl.

I’d love to see how your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!