This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort in every spoonful. Perfect for cozy nights at home or festive gatherings with friends, this soup combines the richness of cheddar and cream cheese with zesty spices. Whether you opt for the stove top or a Crock Pot method, you’ll enjoy a flavorful bowl that’s quick and easy to prepare. It’s an ideal way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it not only delicious but also practical.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking time, you can have a hearty soup ready in under an hour.
- Flexibility: Use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
- Creamy Indulgence: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, velvety texture that elevates the flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve with warm tortillas for dipping.
- Flavor Packed: A blend of spices and ingredients ensures each bite bursts with taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup effectively, having the right tools is essential. They help streamline the cooking process and enhance your overall experience.
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: Provides ample space for simmering all ingredients evenly.
- Cutting board: Ensures safe chopping of vegetables and easy cleanup.
- Sharp knife: Makes slicing through chicken and veggies effortless.
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!
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
Chicken
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 1 oz. packet taco seasoning (about 3 Tbsp.)
Creamy Finish
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened)
Optional Garnish
- Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onions and jalapeno peppers. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until they soften, then incorporate the garlic for another minute.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT for the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garnishes. It’s advisable to start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning, adjusting more to taste later if desired.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid rapid boiling to keep the chicken juicy.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After about 20-25 minutes, remove the cooked chicken from the soup. Shred it using two forks and return it back into the pot.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Reduce heat to low and gradually sprinkle in both shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until smooth.
Step 6: Final Taste Adjustment
Taste your soup before serving; add any additional seasonings as needed. Garnish with your choice of toppings before enjoying!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful experience. This soup pairs well with various toppings and sides that enhance its flavor and texture, making it perfect for any occasion.
Toppings
- Crispy Tortilla Strips: Add crunch by frying or baking thin strips of tortillas.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and balances the spice.
- Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro brings a fresh bright note.
- Lime Wedges: Squeezing lime juice adds a zesty finish to each bowl.
Cheese Options
- Cotija Cheese: Crumbled Cotija lends a salty, tangy flavor that complements the soup.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish.
Accompaniments
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cooling contrast to the spicy flavors.
- Pickled Jalapenos: For those who love heat, pickled jalapenos enhance the soup’s spiciness.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To achieve the best version of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these simple tips that enhance both flavor and texture.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For quick prep, rotisserie chicken offers great flavor and saves time on cooking.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go; you can always add more hot sauce or seasoning to meet your preference.
- Stir Gradually: Slowly incorporate cheeses to avoid clumping and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances flavors; patience pays off with richer taste.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement the main dish perfectly.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the spicy soup.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs beautifully with tortilla chips.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices rounds out the meal and balances flavors.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa brings brightness and enhances the overall taste experience.
- House Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides freshness without overpowering the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese is always a hit, bringing comfort alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese or shredded cheese can cause clumping. Always let them sit at room temperature for a bit before adding them to the soup.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it tough. Monitor your cooking time and remove the chicken once it’s cooked through.
Skipping the Seasoning Adjustment: Not tasting your soup before serving may lead to bland flavors. Always sample and adjust seasonings as necessary!
Neglecting to Sauté Vegetables Properly: Failing to sauté onions and peppers can result in a less flavorful base. Make sure they are softened and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
Not Using Enough Broth: Skimping on broth might make the soup too thick. Stick to the recommended amount for a creamy consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup made of?
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup typically includes chicken, cheese, broth, vegetables, spices, and tortillas for garnishing.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in a Crock Pot?
Yes! Just add all ingredients except for cream cheese and shredded cheese into the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even switch out the beans. Adjust spices based on your taste preferences!
Is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup spicy?
The level of spice depends on how much jalapeno and hot sauce you add. You can easily adjust these ingredients to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you use fresh or leftover chicken, you’ll find it easy to adapt this recipe to your liking with different toppings and spices. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will love!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul. This delectable soup features tender chicken simmered with zesty spices, rich cheddar, and velvety cream cheese, creating a creamy base that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings, this versatile dish allows you to use fresh or leftover chicken, making it a practical choice for any meal. In just under an hour, you’ll have a hearty soup that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses family and friends alike. Serve it topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can corn (15 oz) drained
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz) undrained
- 1 can black beans (15 oz) drained and rinsed
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ⅓ cup cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions and jalapenos for about 5-6 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, corn, tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- After about 20-25 minutes of simmering, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar and cream cheese until smooth.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
