Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or hosting a cozy get-together, this comforting soup brings together zesty flavors and creamy textures that are sure to please everyone at the table. With options to use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken, it’s an easy go-to recipe that delivers both flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 45 minutes, you can enjoy this dish in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Fresh or rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
• Rich and Creamy: The addition of cheddar and cream cheese creates a luxurious texture that makes every bite indulgent.
• Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the heat with jalapenos and hot sauce to suit your taste buds.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential for creating this delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Crock Pot (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients evenly while allowing for even cooking.
• Stirring spoon: Essential for mixing ingredients together smoothly, ensuring flavors meld perfectly.
• Knife and cutting board: Helps in preparing fresh vegetables efficiently, keeping your workspace organized.

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Ingredients

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup 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 Onions and Peppers

• Heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in your large pot.
• Add the diced onions and jalapeno pepper; sauté for about 5–6 minutes until they soften.
• Stir in the diced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Combine Remaining Ingredients

• Add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT for the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garnish items.
• Start with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; you can adjust later based on your taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

• Let the soup 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, check if the chicken is cooked through. Remove it from the pot.
• Use two forks to shred the chicken before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheese for Creaminess

• Reduce heat to low; gradually add in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese.
• Stir continuously until everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

• Taste your soup and add any extra seasonings as needed before garnishing and serving!

Enjoy your tasty bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, perfect for any gathering or family dinner!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a delightful experience, enhancing its flavors and making the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Toppings for Extra Flavor

• Avocado Slices: Add slices of fresh avocado for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over the soup for a zesty kick.

Accompanying Tortillas

• Crispy Tortilla Strips: Fry or bake tortilla strips for a crunchy topping that adds texture.
• Warm Flour Tortillas: Serve with warm flour tortillas on the side, perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas can also be served as soft wraps around the soup.

Garnishes for Presentation

• Shredded Cheese: Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt brings richness and balances spices.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, follow these handy tips that focus on flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasonings: Don’t be shy! Adjust seasonings like taco seasoning and cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
• Slow Cooking Method: For tender chicken, cook at a low temperature. This keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
• Cheese Addition: Gradually add shredded cheese and cream cheese at low heat. This ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without clumps.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables whenever possible. Fresh produce adds vibrant flavors compared to canned alternatives.
• Texture Variations: Blend part of the soup if you prefer a thicker consistency while keeping some chunks for texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup enhances the meal experience. Here are some complementary options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs perfectly with the spicy soup, adding warmth and comfort.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice provides a filling accompaniment, balancing out the soup’s richness.
3. Guacamole: A side of guacamole adds creaminess and complements the flavors beautifully.
4. Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and citrus dressing refreshes the palate between bites.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese quesadillas make for a delightful dipper option alongside your soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal while contrasting textures.
7. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa offer a fun, interactive side dish that complements the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the onions, peppers, and garlic first can lead to a lack of flavor in your soup. Always start by cooking these ingredients in butter until they are soft and fragrant.

• Overcooking the chicken: If you boil the chicken too rapidly, it can become tough and dry. Cook it gently for 20-25 minutes to keep it juicy and tender.

• Not adjusting seasonings: Every palate is different. Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed, especially with hot sauce or taco seasoning.

• Using low-quality canned ingredients: The quality of your canned tomatoes and beans can affect the overall taste of your soup. Choose high-quality brands for the best flavor.

• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your soup look less appealing. Add toppings like cilantro, avocado, or tortilla strips to enhance both presentation and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup that may help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to your soup.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch. Just add more seasoning!

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch up the cheese according to your preference.

How spicy is the Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

The spiciness depends on how much jalapeno and hot sauce you use. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat tolerance!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth and replace the chicken with beans or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also highly versatile. Whether using fresh ingredients or leftovers, you can customize it easily with various toppings and spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort any day of the week!