There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s a creamy chicken tortilla soup. This dish wraps you in comfort, making it perfect for those chilly evenings or busy weeknights. I remember my mom whipping up a similar recipe when I was a kid, filling the house with mouthwatering aromas. It’s a quick solution for a busy day, yet impressive enough to share with friends. With its rich flavors and delightful toppings, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a game-changer for your dinner routine. It’s not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make. In about 45 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that warms the soul. The combination of spices and creamy goodness creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste, making it a perfect fit for any occasion.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious creamy chicken tortilla soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing, adding a rich flavor to the soup.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the overall taste.
Bell pepper: Any color works! It adds crunch and a pop of color.
Ground cumin: This spice gives a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Mexican cuisine.
Chili powder: A must for that classic chili flavor, it adds a bit of heat.
Smoked paprika: This ingredient introduces a subtle smokiness that enhances the soup.
Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide acidity and a juicy texture, making the soup hearty.
Chicken broth: The foundation of your soup, it adds richness and depth.
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken is the star protein, making the soup filling.
Black beans: These add fiber and a creamy texture, making the soup even more satisfying.
Corn: Whether frozen or canned, corn adds sweetness and a nice crunch.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and indulgent.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste.
Tortilla strips: These provide a delightful crunch on top, adding texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds richness and flavor.
Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime before serving adds a zesty finish.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or simply omit it for a broth-based soup. Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
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How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creating a creamy chicken tortilla soup is a straightforward process that brings joy to your kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, making your mouth water. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step is crucial; it builds the flavor base for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Spices
Next, stir in the diced bell pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook this mixture for 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender. The spices will create a fragrant cloud that envelops you, hinting at the deliciousness to come. Don’t rush this step; let those flavors meld together!
Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth
Now, pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the soup starts to take shape. The tomatoes add acidity, balancing the creaminess that’s coming later. Let it bubble away for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Step 4: Mix in the Chicken, Beans, and Corn
Time to add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This step ensures that all the ingredients are heated through and the flavors meld beautifully. The soup should start looking hearty and inviting!
Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Season
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream. This is what transforms your soup into a creamy delight. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Take a moment to taste it; adjust the seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make it just right!
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with crispy tortilla strips, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to squeeze a lime wedge over the top for that zesty finish. Your creamy chicken tortilla soup is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or jalapeños if you like it hot.
For a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
Garnish with avocado slices for an extra creamy touch!
Equipment Needed
Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for simmering the soup. A Dutch oven works great too.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
Measuring cups and spoons: Handy for accurate ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables and shredding chicken.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.
Low-Carb Version: Replace corn with zucchini or cauliflower for a lighter soup.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Pair with warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a satisfying meal.
Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the soup.
For drinks, consider a light beer or a refreshing margarita.
Garnish with extra lime wedges and avocado slices for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Can I make creamy chicken tortilla soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Is creamy chicken tortilla soup gluten-free?
Yes, this creamy chicken tortilla soup is gluten-free! Just ensure that the chicken broth and tortilla strips you use are labeled gluten-free. You can easily find gluten-free tortilla strips at most grocery stores.
Can I freeze creamy chicken tortilla soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave out the heavy cream before freezing. Add it in when you reheat the soup. Store in freezer-safe containers, and it should last for up to three months.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or even Greek yogurt. Both will add creaminess without the extra calories. Just stir them in at the end to keep their texture smooth.
How can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce while cooking. You can also increase the amount of chili powder for an extra layer of heat. Adjust it to your taste!
Final Thoughts
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from sharing a bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup with loved ones. The warmth of the soup, combined with the vibrant toppings, creates a comforting experience that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what really matters—enjoying good food and great company. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the delightful aromas fill your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
A creamy and flavorful chicken tortilla soup that is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the diced bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Stir in the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to heat through.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup hot, topped with tortilla strips, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over each bowl before enjoying.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
To make it lighter, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or omit it entirely for a broth-based soup.
