Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that you can enjoy on a cozy night in or serve at gatherings with friends and family. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. With the rich flavors of cheddar and cream cheese, this soup stands out from the rest. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use whatever chicken you have on hand—be it fresh, leftover, or rotisserie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a luxurious texture that elevates every spoonful.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh chicken or leftovers; this soup works well with whatever you have!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: Its mild spices and creamy base make it an excellent choice for even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials. Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

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 the soup without splatters.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe surface for chopping vegetables, protecting your counters.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting through ingredients easier and safer, ensuring clean cuts.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving up generous portions of your delicious soup.

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 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

For the Chicken

• 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)

Spice Blend

• 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)

To Serve

• 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 add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients Except Cheese

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 based on your taste preference.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble while partially covered. Cooking slowly prevents the chicken from becoming tough and ensures it stays tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

After about 20-25 minutes, remove the chicken once cooked through. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Stir in Cheeses

Reduce heat to low before gradually adding in both shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Stir until everything is combined smoothly to create that creamy texture.

Step 6: Final Seasoning Adjustments

Taste your soup! Add any additional seasonings if needed based on your preference before garnishing and serving hot.

Enjoy your flavorful Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sides. Whether you prefer a classic approach or want to add a personal twist, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.

Toppings

• Avocado slices – Fresh avocado adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the warm soup.
• Chopped cilantro – Sprinkle fresh cilantro for an aromatic finish that enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt complements the spices and adds richness.

Accompaniments

• Tortilla chips – Crunchy tortilla chips provide texture and are perfect for dipping.
• Cornbread muffins – Soft cornbread muffins make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the soup.
• Salad – A light green salad can balance the richness of the soup while adding freshness.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and spices bring out vibrant flavors in your soup.
• Adjust seasoning gradually – Start with less taco seasoning, then adjust to taste for a personalized flavor profile.
• Cook chicken gently – Avoid boiling the chicken too rapidly; slow cooking keeps it tender and juicy.
• Mix cheeses carefully – Gradually stir in shredded cheese and cream cheese to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

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. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip provides a delicious contrast to the spicy soup.
2. Mexican Rice – Flavored rice complements the soup’s flavors and makes for a hearty meal.
3. Black Bean Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas with black beans offer additional protein and flavor.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn adds sweetness and a smoky element that works well with the soup.
5. Pico de Gallo – Fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños enhances the dish’s freshness.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make for a filling side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the onions, jalapenos, and garlic can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take the time to sauté these ingredients for a deeper taste.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or cheddar cheese can create lumps in your soup. Make sure these ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth blend.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Monitor carefully and remove it once it’s cooked through, then shred it gently.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient varies in flavor intensity; don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings as you go. Taste frequently and add more taco seasoning if needed.
• Not Letting It Simmer Gently: Boiling the soup too rapidly can affect texture. Allow it to simmer gently for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the soup cools at room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warm, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Can I use leftover chicken for this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes! Leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just shred it and add it during cooking.

Is there a vegetarian option for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of jalapeno and hot sauce used. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I make this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply add all ingredients (except cheese) in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cheese at the end.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice levels based on your taste preferences. Give it a try for a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone!