Name: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons butter; 1 small yellow onion (diced); 1 small 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)

Introduction to Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you’re in search of a satisfying meal that brings cozy comfort to your dining table, creamy chicken tortilla soup might just become your new favorite. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it also offers a warm, rich flavor that’s sure to please everyone. The combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty spices creates a robust base, while the addition of cream cheese and cheddar cheese gives it that irresistibly creamy texture you crave.

You can enjoy this dish any night of the week, as it’s perfect for using up leftover roast chicken or can be easily made with fresh ingredients. Plus, you have the option to prepare it on the stovetop for a quick fix or toss it into the slow cooker for a hands-off meal.

What really sets creamy chicken tortilla soup apart is the customizable toppings! Whether you prefer crispy tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro, you can tailor each bowl to your liking. For additional inspiration on healthy soup options, check out resources from sources like Healthline or USDA. So, gather your family or friends and dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to warm both your heart and your belly.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Essential Ingredients

To whip up a comforting bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup, start with these essential ingredients:

2 tablespoons of butter for that rich flavor
1 small yellow onion, diced, to add sweetness
1 jalapeño pepper, diced, for a kick
3 cloves of garlic, minced, to enhance the aroma
1 tablespoon of tomato paste for depth
1 (15 oz.) can of corn, drained, giving a sweet crunch
1 (10 oz.) can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained, for zest
1 (15 oz.) can of black beans, drained and rinsed, for protein
5 cups of chicken broth, the soup's soul
2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups of shredded chicken
Spices like cayenne pepper, cumin, and taco seasoning to elevate the flavor
1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ⅓ cup of softened cream cheese for creaminess

Optional Toppings and Garnishes

While your creamy chicken tortilla soup simmers, consider these delightful toppings:

Crispy tortilla strips, either corn or flour
Diced avocado, for a fresh touch
A dollop of sour cream, bringing creaminess
Extra shredded cheese or sliced jalapeños for heat
Chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness

Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your perfect bowl! For more tips on garnishes, check out this guide on toppings. Enjoy creating your comfort food masterpiece!

Step-by-step preparation of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making a creamy chicken tortilla soup is a delightful and satisfying experience that offers both warmth and flavor. Follow these steps to create your own pot of deliciousness.

Sauté your base ingredients

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add in one small diced yellow onion and one diced jalapeño pepper. Sauté these for about 5-6 minutes until they become tender, releasing their wonderful aromas. After that, toss in 3 cloves of diced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. This fragrant mixture lays the foundation for the rich flavors of your soup.

Combine all remaining ingredients

Next, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the remaining ingredients into the pot, which includes:

1 tablespoon of tomato paste
1 can of corn (drained)
1 can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed)
5 cups of chicken broth
2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups of shredded chicken)
A pinch of cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon of cumin
1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce
About 1 oz. packet of taco seasoning (approximately 3 tablespoons)

Stir everything well and bring your mixture to a gentle simmer—this ensures your chicken remains tender while all the flavors meld beautifully.

Cook your soup to perfection

Allow your soup to come to a gentle bubble. It should be partially covered to maintain moisture while not boiling too rapidly. After about 20-25 minutes, check your chicken; it should be fully cooked. If you're using leftover or rotisserie chicken, simply let it simmer for 15 minutes to infuse those amazing flavors.

Shred the chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re going the rotisserie route, skip this step and simply stir the chicken into the soup. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot, giving everything a nice mix.

Add creamy indulgence

For that creamy finish, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ⅓ cup of softened cream cheese. Mixing them in gradually helps achieve that perfectly smooth and creamy texture we love. Taste your soup and feel free to add any additional seasonings or taco seasoning for a bit more kick!

You can now serve your delectable creamy chicken tortilla soup with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for that extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every spoonful of this warm, comforting dish!

Variations of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Spicy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

For those who crave some heat, try making spicy creamy chicken tortilla soup! Simply add extra diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to kick up the flavor. You can also toss in some chopped fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of zest. Pair it with crispy tortilla strips for the perfect spicy crunch! If you need tips on balancing flavors, check out this excellent guide on how to spice up soups.

Vegetarian Creamy Tortilla Soup

Looking for a meat-free option? Transform this recipe into a deliciously creamy vegetarian tortilla soup by substituting the chicken with hearty veggies like diced zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and add extra beans for protein. This version is just as rich and comforting! For ideas on flavorful vegetarian swaps, take a look at this complete resource on cooking plant-based meals.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Pro Tips for Creamy Texture

To achieve that rich, creamy texture in your creamy chicken tortilla soup, make sure your cheeses are close to room temperature before adding them. This allows them to melt more smoothly. Additionally, avoid adding the cheeses to a hot base to prevent graininess—let the soup cool a bit first for the best results.

Ingredient Swaps and Adjustments

Feel free to customize your creamy chicken tortilla soup with ingredient swaps! Use fresh or frozen corn in place of canned, or opt for rotisserie chicken for a quicker fix. If you love a kick, experiment with different hot sauces to find your perfect heat level. Adjust the spices to suit your taste—cumin and cayenne can be added generously, or reduced if you prefer milder flavors. Moreover, don't forget the garnishes! Diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream can elevate your soup experience.

For more inspiration on flavor adjustments, check out EatingWell or Food Network for diverse ideas.

Serving suggestions for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creative toppings to elevate your soup

Toppings can truly transform your creamy chicken tortilla soup from comforting to gourmet. Consider adding:

Diced Avocado: Provides a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Crispy Tortilla Strips: For that satisfying crunch.
Fresh Cilantro: A bright herbal note that freshens up every bite.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Balances the spices with a cool creaminess.
Jalapeños: For some heat that you can customize to your taste.

Feel free to mix and match or get creative with what you have at home!

Best sides to complement the soup

Pairing sides with your creamy chicken tortilla soup can make the meal even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas:

Cornbread: Its sweetness complements the spicy flavors beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: A light mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Perfect for dipping and adds a crunchy companion to your soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a nostalgic pairing that never disappoints.

Choose sides that cater to your preference, and enjoy a meal that is not only filling but also bursting with flavor!

Time Breakdown for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Preparation Time

Get ready to whip up this delightfully comforting creamy chicken tortilla soup with just 10 minutes of prep. It’s quick and allows you to focus on the fun parts—like adding your favorite toppings!

Cooking Time

Once your ingredients are prepped, the cooking takes about 35 minutes. This includes simmering the flavors together and ensuring that your chicken is perfectly tender.

Total Time

From start to finish, you’ll be the proud creator of this delicious soup in 45 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy weekend meal—a quick timeline that fits effortlessly into your schedule!

By breaking down the time, you can plan accordingly and know exactly when to dive into this tasty dish. If you're interested in more recipes, check out our other quick meal ideas to keep your weeknight dinners exciting!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Curious about the nutritional merits of this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup? Here’s a snapshot to keep you informed as you indulge!

Calories

A satisfying bowl of this comforting soup is relatively light, clocking in at just 204 calories per serving. Perfect for those cozy nights without the guilt!

Protein

Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup delivers a hearty 26 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the chicken and black beans. It’s a great option for fueling your busy day!

Sodium

Be mindful of your sodium intake; this recipe contains approximately 600 mg of sodium per serving. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth or rinsing canned goods to make it a heart-healthy choice.

Explore more nutritional insights and tips on maintaining a balanced diet here! Remember, it's not just about enjoying your meal but also giving your body the nourishment it deserves.

FAQ about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just prepare the soup as directed, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for the cream cheese. Both will give you that creamy texture while adding a tangy flavor. Alternatively, a plant-based cream cheese or cashew cream can be great for a dairy-free version!

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers of your creamy chicken tortilla soup, cool it down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Just remember to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

If you have any more questions or tips to share, feel free to drop them in the comments!

Conclusion on Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

In closing, this creamy chicken tortilla soup is more than just a meal; it's a comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy lunches, this recipe is adaptable and packed with flavor. Give it a try, and you'll have a warm, satisfying dish that everyone will love.