This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. With its rich and creamy texture, this soup stands out thanks to the combination of cheddar and cream cheese, making it a delightful comfort food. Plus, it’s flexible enough to use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, ensuring you can whip it up with what you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – This recipe comes together quickly on the stove top or in the Crock Pot, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful Indulgence – The blend of spices, cheese, and creamy goodness creates a satisfying depth of flavor that warms the soul.
- Versatile Options – Use fresh ingredients or leftovers; this soup adapts to your kitchen situation without sacrificing taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for gatherings, this hearty soup will impress family and friends at any meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items that will help you create this delicious soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for cooking soups evenly and preventing burning while allowing plenty of space for all ingredients.
- Sharp knife – A good knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables, saving you time in preparation.
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!
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 Vegetables
Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper.
– Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
– 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 and cream cheese into the pot.
– Start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; adjust later if desired.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Bring the soup to a gentle bubble while partially covered.
– Avoid boiling rapidly to keep the chicken tender.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
After about 20-25 minutes, remove the chicken once fully cooked through.
– Use two forks to shred, then return it to the soup.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Reduce heat to low before gradually adding in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese.
– Stir continuously until everything is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup!
– Adjust seasonings as necessary before garnishing and serving.
Enjoy your creamy creation!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a gourmet touch, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an added burst of freshness.
- Avocado: Add slices of ripe avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fat.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
Add Crunchy Toppings
- Tortilla Strips: Top the soup with crispy tortilla strips for a satisfying crunch.
- Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a salty flavor contrast.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
Pair with Breads
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping and enjoying every spoonful.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the spiciness of the soup wonderfully.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To achieve the best version of your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with less taco seasoning and add more as needed to suit your taste.
- Shred chicken properly: Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding; it makes handling easier.
- Control the heat: Cook on low to avoid overcooking the chicken and maintain its juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices that complement the soup’s flavors perfectly.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness alongside each bowl of soup.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas are easy to make and pair well with the soup for extra heartiness.
- Garden Salad: A crisp salad adds freshness and lightness, balancing out the creamy soup.
- Guacamole: Smooth guacamole brings creaminess and enhances the overall flavor experience.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun appetizer or snack alongside.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a fun experience, but there are a few common missteps that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions and peppers adds depth of flavor. Always take the time to cook these ingredients first.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too fast can make it tough. Always simmer gently for a juicy result.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every palate is different. Taste your soup and adjust seasonings before serving for the best flavor.
- Using cold cream cheese: If you add cream cheese straight from the fridge, it won’t blend well. Let it soften at room temperature first.
- Neglecting garnishes: Toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado, or lime juice enhance the soup’s taste. Don’t skip these flavorful additions!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot. Use a microwave-safe container.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, here are some common questions answered.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.
How can I customize Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust spices based on your preference.
What’s the best way to serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Serve with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or shredded cheese on top for added texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only easy to make but also customizable based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re using fresh ingredients or leftovers, its creamy texture combined with spicy undertones makes it irresistibly delicious. Try experimenting with different toppings or add-ins; you might discover your new favorite twist!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This easy-to-make soup features a rich blend of cheddar and cream cheese, creating a creamy base that complements tender chicken and vibrant spices. You can effortlessly use fresh chicken, leftovers, or rotisserie chicken to whip up this hearty meal. With customizable toppings and the option to prepare it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, this recipe is adaptable to any occasion. Enjoy garnishing your soup with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or crispy tortilla strips for an added touch of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop/Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded chicken (or 2 small boneless breasts)
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ⅓ cup cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and jalapeno for 5-6 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Stir in chicken broth, shredded chicken, and spices. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- After 20-25 minutes of simmering, remove the chicken to shred it before returning it to the pot.
- Lower the heat and gradually mix in cheddar and cream cheese until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
