There’s something so delightful about a warm bowl of soup, especially as the leaves begin to change color and the first hints of crisp autumn air brush against your cheek. It brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, huddled around the dining table, sharing stories and laughter. One dish that has secured a permanent spot in my heart—and on our family dinner table—is my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. Each spoonful is a hug in a bowl, creamy and rich, yet vibrant with a kick. It’s the kind of recipe that not only warms the belly but also the soul.

This soup is incredibly versatile, easy to whip up after a long day, and can be customized in countless ways. You’ll find it’s practically begging to become your next weeknight staple. Let’s dive into this creamy goodness and see why it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple: A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes!
• Comforting: Creamy and filling, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a pick-me-up.
• Budget-friendly: Uses everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to personalize it to your taste.

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer a little more flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered!)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend works best)
• 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed (plus extra for garnishing)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to bring this creamy chicken tortilla soup to life:

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and it’s heavenly!
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Incorporate the Rest: Add black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder to your pot. Stir everything together, and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to allow those flavors to meld.
5. Get Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through for a few minutes. Be careful not to boil it at this point, as you want to keep that creamy texture silky.
6. Finish It Off: Toss in the shredded chicken and half of the crushed tortilla chips. Stir to combine and taste! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve It Up: Ladle your creamy chicken tortilla soup into bowls and sprinkle with the remaining tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. Add any additional toppings you love, like avocado or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing zing.

Pro Tips & Variations

Here are some fun twists and encouraging tips for making this recipe your own:

• Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños to the sautéed veggies.
• Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like oregano or a dash of smoked paprika can add a nice depth of flavor.
• Go Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for hearty mushrooms or extra beans to make it a vegetarian delight.
• Cheesy Goodness: Try stirring in some cream cheese for an extra lush creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, this creamy chicken tortilla soup shines just on its own, but why not take it a step further? Here’s how I’d serve it:

• With Warm Cornbread: A slice of cornbread on the side is perfect for dipping and adds a nice sweetness.
• Over Rice: For heartier appetites, serve the soup over a bed of fluffy rice.
• With a Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the creaminess.

And, of course, a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea never hurts! Picture your cozy kitchen filled with laughter as everyone digs into their bowls.

Storage Tips

Let’s talk leftovers! If you manage to have any, here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Want to save some for later? Freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the cream may change texture a bit when thawed, but it’ll still be delicious.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, heat it gently on the stovetop over low heat. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to bring back that creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds incredible flavor. Just shred it and toss it in at the end!

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works great. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative!

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more chili powder, or toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you add the broth. Customize it to your spice tolerance!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare it ahead. Just keep the cream separate until you’re ready to serve to preserve the texture, then stir it in before serving!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this journey into making creamy chicken tortilla soup as much as I love sharing it! Cozy up with a bowl and let it warm your heart and home. If you try this recipe, please come back and tell me how it turned out! I’d love to hear your variations and tips. Happy cooking!

Savory Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Ultimate Comfort

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in this creamy chicken tortilla soup packed with flavor and the comfort you crave Perfect for any occasion Discover ultimate satisfaction

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

4 cups chicken broth

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheese

1 cup tortilla chips, crushed

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, lime wedges

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Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and shred after resting.

In the same pot, add diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.

Add black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder. Stir and let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Warm for a few minutes without boiling.

Add shredded chicken and half of crushed tortilla chips. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve in bowls topped with remaining tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings with its rich flavors and customizable toppings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: creamy chicken tortilla soup, chicken soup recipe, easy soup recipes