Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for family gatherings, busy weeknights, or cozy weekends, this recipe shines with its creamy texture and hearty ingredients. Whether you use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, the combination of cheddar and cream cheese elevates this soup to a comforting classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly on the stove top or in a Crock Pot, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Flavorful: The mix of spices and creamy components creates a rich taste that is satisfying and delicious.
• Versatile: Customize this soup with your favorite toppings or serve it with corn or flour tortillas for a complete meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It reheats beautifully!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients in this comforting dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup evenly while providing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring everything blends well.
• Cutting board and knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables quickly and safely before adding them to the pot.

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!

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 Vegetables

Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes until softened, then add the garlic. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

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 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; you can adjust this later according to your taste.

Step 3: Simmer Slowly

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Be careful not to let it boil too rapidly as this could make the chicken tough. Cooking slowly keeps it juicy.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20–25 minutes, remove the chicken once it’s cooked through—timing may vary based on thickness. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese along with the softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until both cheeses melt completely into a smooth and creamy texture.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup! Adjust any seasonings as needed before garnishing with your favorite toppings like cilantro, avocado, or tortilla strips before serving hot!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Consider these suggestions for a perfect presentation and delightful accompaniments.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s texture and adds healthy fats.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
• Crushed Tortilla Chips: Provide a crunchy contrast that enhances each spoonful.

Bread Pairings

• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the spicy soup.
• Tortilla Wraps: Soft tortillas can be used to scoop up the soup or enjoyed on the side.

Salad Options

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad can balance the richness of the creamy soup.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This adds a deliciously tangy and sweet crunch that complements the soup’s flavors.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To achieve the best results when making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds great flavor without extra cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less cayenne pepper and hot sauce, then add more according to your taste preference.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Sautéing onions and peppers until soft enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth to the flavor.
• Gradually Add Cheese: Adding cheese slowly while stirring helps incorporate it smoothly, preventing clumps in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

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

1. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread has a buttery garlic flavor that complements the soup wonderfully.
2. Spanish Rice: Flavored with spices, this rice dish is a hearty addition that balances well with the creamy texture.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans adds protein and fiber, enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with the soup’s creaminess.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas make a fun side option that kids will love; serve them cut into triangles for easy eating.
6. Jicama Sticks with Lime: Crunchy jicama sticks drizzled with lime juice offer a refreshing crispness alongside warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Boldly skip the sauté: Many rush past sautéing the onions and peppers. This step builds essential flavor, so take your time.
• Boldly ignore seasoning adjustments: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Starting with less taco seasoning allows for personal preference at the end.
• Boldly boil chicken rapidly: Cooking chicken too quickly can make it tough. Allow it to simmer gently for a tender result.
• Boldly overlook cheese incorporation: Adding cheese too quickly can cause clumps. Gradually sprinkle in the cheddar and cream cheese to achieve a smooth texture.
• Boldly forget about garnishes: Garnishes enhance both flavor and presentation. Consider toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips for added enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries about making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use turkey or even shredded lamb as alternatives if you prefer a different protein.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

How do I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicier?

Add extra jalapenos or increase the amount of hot sauce during cooking for additional heat.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes! You can add frozen chicken directly into the soup; just increase cooking time slightly until it’s fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also adaptable based on your preferences. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or add more vegetables to suit your taste. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep throughout the week!