Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for cozy family dinners or a gathering with friends. The creamy texture from cheddar and cream cheese enhances the comforting chicken broth, making it an inviting dish for any occasion. Whether you choose to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie option, this soup is both versatile and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in under 45 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh, leftover, or rotisserie chicken based on what you have handy.
• Creamy Indulgence: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese makes this soup irresistibly rich and satisfying.
• Flavorful Heat: With jalapeños and cayenne pepper, enjoy just the right amount of spice without overwhelming the palate.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essentials you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Great for evenly heating ingredients while allowing enough room for all components of the soup.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, making it easy to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements, crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your 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 Base

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

For Flavor and Texture

• 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)

For Serving

• Corn or Flour Tortillas (See notes)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

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 softened.
* Add the 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:
* Include corn, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, chicken breasts, cayenne pepper, cumin, hot sauce, and taco seasoning.
* Start with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning; adjust later as needed.

Step 3: Simmer Slowly

Allow the soup to come to a gentle bubble:
* Partially cover to maintain moisture.
* Cook slowly; this helps keep the chicken tender.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After about 20–25 minutes:
* Remove the chicken once fully cooked through.
* Shred using two forks before returning it to the pot.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Reduce heat to low:
* Gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese.
* Stir continuously until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup:
* Adjust seasonings as necessary before serving.
* Garnish as desired with tortilla strips or fresh herbs!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be a delightful experience. With the right accompaniments, you can elevate this comforting dish into a satisfying meal.

Toppings

• Avocado: Fresh slices add creaminess and healthy fats.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings freshness and enhances flavors.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds brightness to the soup.
• Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips provide texture and contrast.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Bread: A slice of rustic bread is perfect for dipping in the soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the spicy elements of the dish.

Salads

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the flavors of chicken tortilla soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance its flavor and consistency.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust jalapeño and hot sauce according to your spice preference for a custom heat level.
• Add Depth with Seasoning: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for added flavor complexity.
• Use Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken broth will improve the overall taste of the soup.
• Gradually Melt Cheese: Slowly adding cheese helps create a smooth, creamy texture without clumping.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

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

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds crunch and gooeyness.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice adds substance and complements the soup’s taste.
3. Spanish Corn Salad: A refreshing salad that includes corn, tomatoes, and lime juice for a zesty touch.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, and cheese for a hearty addition.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled tortillas are great for dipping into the soup.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa offer a perfect snack alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much heat: Cooking the chicken at too high a temperature can make it tough. Always simmer gently to keep the chicken juicy.
• Skipping the seasoning adjustment: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can lead to bland soup. Start with less taco seasoning and add more as needed.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can change the soup’s texture. Ensure you shred it well before returning it to the pot.
• Overcrowding the soup: Adding too many ingredients at once may affect cooking time and flavor balance. Add ingredients in stages for better results.
• Ignoring garnish options: Garnishing your soup elevates its presentation and flavor. Consider adding avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips for a delightful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers; it will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring often, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken works great in this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more jalapenos or increase the amount of hot sauce according to your taste preferences!

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varied flavors.

What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or even a fresh side salad.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that’s both easy and versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spice level. Whether you have leftover chicken or want to whip up something new, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings together a delightful blend of flavors, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. This creamy soup features tender chicken, rich cheddar, and cream cheese, all simmered in a savory broth. With a hint of spice from jalapeños and cayenne pepper, every spoonful is both comforting and satisfying. Easy to prepare in under 45 minutes, this versatile recipe can utilize fresh or leftover chicken, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal any day of the week. Whether served with crunchy tortilla strips or fresh lime wedges, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 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 for serving

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and jalapeños; sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Add corn, diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, chicken breasts, cayenne pepper, cumin, hot sauce, and taco seasoning. Bring to a gentle bubble.
3. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through; shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot.
4. Reduce heat to low; gradually stir in cheddar cheese and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
5. Adjust seasonings as needed before serving with desired garnishes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 70mg