Warm up with a bowl of comfort! This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Forget bland recipes; this version delivers rich, velvety textures and vibrant spices in every spoonful. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. You’ll have a delicious, hearty dinner on the table in no time, sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
You’ll adore this recipe for so many reasons, making it a go-to dish in your kitchen.
- One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks in a single pot, minimizing cleanup and making dinner prep a breeze.
- Rich, Hearty Flavor: The combination of spices, tomatoes, and cheeses creates an unbelievably satisfying taste profile. This isn’t your average chicken tortilla soup.
- Perfect for Any Season: It’s comforting on a cold day and surprisingly light enough for warmer evenings, especially with fresh toppings.
- Customizable with Toppings: Load it up with your favorite garnishes to make each bowl uniquely yours.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and familiar flavors, making mealtime stress-free.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your luscious chicken tortilla soup. You likely have many of them in your pantry already!
- Produce: 1 small yellow onion (diced), 1 jalapeño pepper (diced), 3 cloves garlic (diced).
- Pantry: 2 Tablespoons butter, 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).
- Liquids: 5 cups chicken broth, 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce.
- Proteins: 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken).
- Spices: 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 oz. packet taco seasoning (about 3 Tbsp.).
- Dairy: 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded), 1/3 cup cream cheese (softened).
- Serving: Corn or Flour Tortillas (for garnish).
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Chicken Options: Use fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or save time with pre-cooked shredded chicken. Add cooked chicken in the final step.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also melt beautifully into this creamy soup.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the smoothest, most lump-free finish. It delivers that signature creamy texture.
- Adjusting Heat: For less spice, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. For more heat, add extra hot sauce or a pinch more cayenne pepper.
- Black Beans: Always rinse canned black beans thoroughly under cold water before adding them to the pot. This removes excess sodium and starch.
Equipment You’ll Need
Preparing this delicious chicken tortilla soup requires only a few basic kitchen tools. You probably already own most of these!
- Large Dutch Oven or Pot: Essential for simmering all the ingredients together.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For efficiently prepping your vegetables and chicken.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you use the correct proportions for a balanced flavor.
- Two Forks: Perfect for easily shredding the cooked chicken directly in the pot.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Follow these simple steps to create a rich and satisfying bowl of chicken tortilla soup.
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in your large pot or Dutch oven. Add the diced yellow onions and jalapeño pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.
- Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices. Stir in the 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for just 1 more minute until it becomes aromatic. Next, add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Sauté for another minute to bloom the spices, enhancing their flavor.
- Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients. Pour in the 5 cups of chicken broth. Add the drained corn, the undrained can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the rinsed black beans. Submerge the 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the liquid. Stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce and 1-2 tablespoons of taco seasoning. You can add more taco seasoning later if you prefer.
- Step 4: Simmer the Soup. Bring the soup to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes. Gentle cooking prevents the chicken from becoming tough, ensuring it stays tender and juicy. The cooking time will vary slightly based on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
- Step 5: Shred Chicken. Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot using tongs. Place them on a cutting board or a shallow dish. Use two forks to easily shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once shredded, return all the tender chicken back into the simmering soup, stirring it to combine.
- Step 6: Stir in Cheeses. Reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Gradually sprinkle in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it completely melts into the soup. Next, add 1/3 cup of softened cream cheese, stirring vigorously until it dissolves and creates a smooth, creamy texture. This is what makes this a truly creamy chicken tortilla soup.
- Step 7: Taste and Serve. Taste your delicious soup and adjust any seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, garnish generously with your favorite toppings, and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade creamy chicken tortilla soup!
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tortilla Soup
Achieve the perfect bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup every time with these helpful tips. They ensure maximum flavor and ideal texture.
- Cook Chicken Gently: Avoid rapidly boiling the chicken. A gentle simmer keeps the meat tender and prevents it from becoming dry or tough.
- Season Gradually: Start with the lower amount of taco seasoning and hot sauce. You can always add more at the end, but you cannot remove it.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving. This is your chance to adjust salt, pepper, cumin, or hot sauce to your personal preference.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it melt smoothly into the soup, avoiding lumps and creating a silky texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients truly make a difference. Fresh onions, garlic, and jalapeños bring the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Remove the chicken as soon as it is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Overcooking can dry out the meat.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
Make the most of your delicious chicken tortilla soup with these suggestions.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your chicken tortilla soup with a variety of fun toppings.
- Crunchy Toppings: Offer crushed tortilla chips, fried tortilla strips, or crispy corn tortillas for a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Additions: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside warm cornbread or a light, crisp side salad to complete your meal.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage ensures your soup remains fresh and delicious for future enjoyment.
- Cool Completely: Allow the soup to cool fully before transferring it to storage containers.
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. It’s best to freeze without the shredded cheese for texture.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat refrigerated or thawed soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it seems too thick.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with your creamy chicken tortilla soup! These ideas allow you to customize the flavors.
- Spicy Version: Increase the amount of jalapeño, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or use a hotter variety of hot sauce.
- Smoky Flavor: A dash of liquid smoke or a pinch of smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth to the soup.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Different Meats: Substitute the chicken breasts with cooked ground chicken or turkey for a different texture.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheddar and cream cheese. Instead, stir in a ½ cup of cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for similar richness.
Nutrition Information
This creamy chicken tortilla soup offers a fantastic balance of nutrients, making it a hearty and wholesome meal. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, essential fiber from the beans and corn, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. You can easily adjust the health aspects by controlling cheese portions or adding more vegetables. This recipe provides a satisfying meal that fits into many dietary plans.
According to the USDA, understanding food labels and nutritional facts can help you make informed dietary choices.
Nutrition per Serving (approximate, without toppings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1.5 cups |
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This is not a substitute for professional nutritional advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Get answers to common questions about making this delightful chicken tortilla soup.
- Can I use leftover cooked chicken? Yes, absolutely! If using pre-cooked or leftover chicken, shred it and add it to the soup during the final step, just before adding the cheeses, to prevent overcooking.
- How do I make this soup spicier? To increase the heat, add an extra diced jalapeño (with seeds), a few dashes more of hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also incorporate a diced chipotle in adobo for smoky heat.
- Can I freeze chicken tortilla soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. For the best texture after thawing, it is recommended to freeze the soup without the shredded cheddar and cream cheese, then add them upon reheating.
- What are good toppings for this soup? Popular toppings include crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Shredded cheese is also a fantastic addition.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Combine all ingredients except the cheeses and garnish in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then shred the chicken and stir in the cheeses before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken tortilla soup is truly a triumph of flavor and simplicity, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Its rich, velvety texture combined with vibrant spices creates a truly unforgettable dish that everyone will love. We encourage you to try this easy-to-follow recipe and discover your new favorite soup. Share your creations with us in the comments, and let us know your favorite toppings!
Easy One-Pot Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease from the pot to avoid greasy soup.
- Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and onion powder. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, diced green chiles, kidney beans, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring soup to a low boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips.
Notes
Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com
