As I stirred the bubbling pot, the inviting aroma of my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup wrapped around me like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. With just 30 minutes to whip up, this delightful recipe is the answer to busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. Picture this: a creamy, rich broth dancing with robust spices, tender chicken, and vibrant corn and beans, ready to warm hearts and bellies alike. Not only does this recipe come together quickly, but it’s also versatile—perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings like crispy tortilla strips or creamy avocado. Who wouldn’t want a bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug? Join me in creating a dish that promises to become your next go-to soul-soothing meal! What toppings will you choose to make it uniquely yours?
Why is this soup a must-try?
Quick Preparation: This creamy chicken tortilla soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The rich, seasoned broth bursts with flavor from smoky paprika, zest, and spices that dance on your palate—comfort food at its finest!
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer tortilla strips, avocado, or Tex-Mex cheese, this dish is all about personal touch and creativity.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Serving this soup will have your family and friends coming back for seconds, as it’s sure to be a favorite for gatherings.
If you’re enjoying cozy soups, check out my Chicken Noodle Soup or the fulfilling Tuscan Chicken Soup for more delightful options!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – For sautéing; can use canola or vegetable oil if preferred.
• Onion (1/2 medium, chopped) – Adds a flavor foundation; shallots can be a substitute.
• Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz) – Provides body and thickness; do not swap for other varieties as it affects texture.
• Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz) – Offers spice and depth; can substitute with plain diced tomatoes plus green chilies.
• Chicken broth (1 cup) – Adds savory flavor; low-sodium can be a healthier option.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor; fresh garlic can be substituted (1 clove).
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp) – Delivers a smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used for a milder taste.
• Chili powder (1/2 tbsp) – For warmth; can omit or reduce for less heat.
• Corn (1 can, 12 oz, drained) – Adds sweetness and texture; fresh or frozen corn can be used.
• Black beans (1 can, 14 oz, drained & rinsed) – Provides protein and fiber; pinto beans can be a substitute.
For the Creaminess
• Heavy cream (1 cup) – Adds creaminess; can replace with cream cheese for a tangy flavor, but consider adding lime juice.
• Cooked chicken (2 cups, preferably rotisserie) – For convenience and flavor; leftover grilled or poached chicken works as well.
Seasoning
• Salt & pepper – To taste, essential for seasoning.
For Serving
• Toppings (optional) – Customize with tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, or Tex-Mex cheese for your perfect bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add ½ medium chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and lightly browned. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, setting a comforting tone for your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
Once the onion is ready, stir in one 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes, one 10 oz can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ½ tablespoon of chili powder. Mix well, and let the ingredients come together, heating until bubbly—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate Corn and Beans
Next, add in one 12 oz can of drained corn and one 14 oz can of drained and rinsed black beans. Stir everything together until well combined. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil; watch for bubbles rising to the surface, indicating it’s time to move on to the next step!
Step 4: Simmer for Flavor
Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors of the Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup to meld together beautifully. You’ll see the broth thicken slightly as it simmers, making it even more inviting.
Step 5: Prepare Your Toppings
While the soup simmers, take this time to prep your favorite toppings. Slice avocado, crumble tortilla strips, or prepare sour cream and Tex-Mex cheese. These toppings will add delightful textures and flavors to your creamy soup, making it even more enjoyable.
Step 6: Add Cream and Chicken
Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of cooked chicken (preferably rotisserie) into the soup. Heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring gently until the chicken is warmed and the soup is creamy and luscious. You’ll see a rich, velvety texture forming.
Step 7: Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and season generously with salt and pepper according to your liking. This final touch is essential for bringing out the robust flavors in your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. Once perfectly seasoned, it’s time to serve!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, and generously pile on your chosen toppings. The contrast of creamy, hearty soup with crispy tortilla strips and creamy avocado is utterly satisfying. Dig in and savor the warmth and comfort of your homemade Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this creamy chicken tortilla soup and elevate your culinary experience with these exciting twists!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a rich, dairy-free option that still offers creaminess.
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Extra Zest: Squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup before serving for a refreshing burst of brightness.
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Bean Variety: Swap black beans for kidney or navy beans to introduce a new texture and slightly different flavor profile.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for added nutrition and color.
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Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chipotle chili powder to the base for an extra flavor punch.
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Cream Cheese Twist: Replace heavy cream with cream cheese heated and whisked smooth, adding a tangy flavor and velvety texture.
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Homemade Tortilla Strips: Instead of store-bought, fry up homemade tortilla strips for an irresistible crunch on top of your soup.
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Hearty Grain Addition: Stir in cooked quinoa or rice to make the soup more filling, perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal.
If you love soups as much as I do, don’t forget to try my Mexican Soup Flavorful for another comforting twist!
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Perfect Consistency: Use full-fat cream for rich creaminess; low-fat alternatives may curdle and affect the soup’s smooth texture.
• Flavor Boost: To enhance flavors, consider adding fresh lime juice right before serving; it brightens the richness of the creamy chicken tortilla soup.
• Smart Substitutions: Canned tomatoes are essential for thickness—don’t use fresh tomatoes as they won’t yield the same consistency.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup is great for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently to enjoy again.
• Heat Control: Adjust the chili powder and add cayenne pepper or jalapeños for a spicier twist; your heat level can be tailored to your taste preferences.
• Topping Variety: Get creative with toppings! Avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges can provide exciting texture and flavor contrasts to the creamy chicken tortilla soup.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Fridge: Store leftover creamy chicken tortilla soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a quick meal on busy nights—just pop it in the microwave or reheat gently for a comforting bowl anytime!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the onions and measure out the spices up to 24 hours in advance—store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, the canned ingredients like corn and black beans can be rinsed and set aside until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the onions and continue with the recipe as instructed. For best quality, make the soup itself up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove before stirring in the cream and chicken, ensuring your soup remains just as delicious and creamy as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Imagine a comforting meal, where each bite of the creamy chicken tortilla soup is enhanced by delightful accompaniments.
- Crispy Tortilla Strips: These add a wonderful crunch and contrast, making every spoonful Divine and texturally pleasing.
- Fresh Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a refreshing creaminess that balances the warmth of the soup, elevating it to new heights.
- Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds brilliant acidity, brightening the flavors and enhancing the overall dish.
- Grated Cheese: Melty Tex-Mex cheese creates a luscious, gooey topping, enhancing the comforting vibe of your soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: They provide a subtly sweet, dense texture that pairs beautifully with the richness of the soup.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp side salad brings refreshing greens, which balances the creamy nature of the soup.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc offers a refreshing complement, lifting your meal with bright citrus notes.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and extra creaminess, contrasting beautifully with the soup’s warmth.
- Pickled Jalapeños: If you’re craving a spicy kick, these will elevate your soup with added heat and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, classic cookies keep the comfort food theme going, rounding out the meal with sweetness.
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for this soup?
For the best results, it’s crucial to use crushed tomatoes as specified in the recipe. This type provides body and thickness that fresh tomatoes simply can’t match, leading to a rich texture. I recommend sticking with the canned variety since they are designed for optimal flavor and consistency.
How can I store leftover creamy chicken tortilla soup?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup cools to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can dilute the flavors upon reheating.
Can I freeze creamy chicken tortilla soup?
Yes! To freeze, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the container overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop.
What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
If you find your soup has thickened too much after storage, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while reheating on medium heat. Stir well until you reach your desired consistency, ensuring it remains creamy and delightful.
Are there any ingredient substitutions for dietary concerns?
Certainly! To keep it gluten-free, ensure your toppings are also certified gluten-free. If you have dairy allergies, consider using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and omit or replace cheese toppings with dairy-free alternatives. There are plenty of delicious options to cater to your dietary needs!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add ½ medium chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and lightly browned.
- Once the onion is ready, stir in one 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes, one 10 oz can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ½ tablespoon of chili powder. Mix well, and let the ingredients come together, heating until bubbly—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Next, add in one 12 oz can of drained corn and one 14 oz can of drained and rinsed black beans. Stir everything together until well combined. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil; watch for bubbles rising to the surface, indicating it’s time to move on to the next step!
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors of the Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup to meld together beautifully.
- While the soup simmers, take this time to prep your favorite toppings. Slice avocado, crumble tortilla strips, or prepare sour cream and Tex-Mex cheese.
- Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of cooked chicken (preferably rotisserie). Heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring gently until the chicken is warmed and the soup is creamy and luscious.
- Taste the soup and season generously with salt and pepper according to your liking. Once perfectly seasoned, it’s time to serve!
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and generously pile on your chosen toppings. The contrast of creamy, hearty soup with crispy tortilla strips and creamy avocado is utterly satisfying. Dig in and savor the warmth and comfort of your homemade Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!