Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in, this soup stands out with its rich creaminess from cheddar and cream cheese. You can easily customize it using fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this soup quickly.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of spices, cheese, and chicken creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever chicken you have on hand—fresh or leftover—and adapt the spice level to your liking.
• Comforting Meal: Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something cozy and indulgent.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This soup serves many and is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, gather the essential tools that will make the cooking process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures efficiency and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pots.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent flavor every time.

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 Base

• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (diced)
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste

For the Main Ingredients

• 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)

Seasonings

• 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)

Garnish

• 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 about 5-6 minutes until softened, then add the diced 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 to the pot. Start with 2 Tbsp. of taco seasoning; you can adjust this later based on your taste preference.

Step 3: Simmer Slowly

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Avoid boiling rapidly as this can make the chicken tough. Slow cooking keeps everything juicy.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes, check if the chicken is cooked through. Remove it from the pot carefully. Shred using two forks and return it back to the soup base.

Step 5: Add Cheese for Creaminess

Reduce heat to low before gradually adding in both shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until everything melts together smoothly.

Step 6: Taste & Serve

Taste your creamy tortilla soup! Adjust seasonings as needed before garnishing your delicious dish with tortillas. Serve warm!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal experience. This soup is delicious on its own but can be complemented with various toppings and sides for an enhanced flavor profile.

Toppings

• Crispy Tortilla Strips: Add a crunch by frying or baking tortilla strips until golden.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the soup’s flavors.

Cheese Options

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta offers a tangy twist that pairs well with the spices.
• Cotija Cheese: This Mexican cheese adds a salty flavor, enhancing the soup’s richness.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
• With Cornbread: Pair with warm cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To make your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup truly stand out, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the recipe every time you make it.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for better flavor.
• Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the heat level by adjusting jalapeño and hot sauce according to taste.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing the soup to simmer slowly keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to tweak seasonings like cumin and cayenne for your preferred flavor profile.
• Blend in Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

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

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic comfort food that complements the soup’s creaminess.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese, chili, and lime brings vibrant flavors.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
4. Nachos: Loaded nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream make for a fun side dish.
5. Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with cheese or sour cream as a filling accompaniment.
6. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime adds brightness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a breeze, but there are some pitfalls to watch for. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions, peppers, and garlic enhances the soup’s flavor. Don’t rush this step; it builds a robust base.

• Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken too fast, it may become tough. Aim for a gentle simmer instead of boiling to keep it juicy.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient varies in strength. Taste your soup as you go and adjust seasonings to achieve the desired flavor.

• Forgetting cheese integration: Adding cheddar and cream cheese too quickly can lead to clumps. Gradually sprinkle in while stirring for a smooth, creamy texture.

• Using low-quality broth: A good broth is crucial for flavor. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.

• Neglecting garnishes: Toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips add texture and flavor. Don’t skip out on garnishing your bowl!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish; cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl; cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best toppings for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Common toppings include avocado slices, crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cheese. These add flavor and texture!

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Just shred it and add it when instructed.

How can I make this soup spicier?

For extra heat, increase the amount of jalapeno or cayenne pepper. You can also add more hot sauce to taste!

Is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free tortillas and check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free as well. Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust spices to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re using fresh or leftover chicken, this recipe offers a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week!