Irresistible Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Quick Easy
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s chilly outside, and the leaves are just beginning to turn that gorgeous autumn gold. I remember the first time I made Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup; it was one of those bustling nights when life felt a bit too chaotic. I was exhausted and craving something warm and flavorful, and my kitchen was dancing with the aromas of spices and chicken simmering away. And just like that, the soup emerged, a bowlful of cozy familiarity that wrapped around me like a warm hug.
This creamy chicken tortilla soup has become a staple in my home, not just for its comforting flavors, but also for its sheer simplicity and versatility. It’s like a warm invitation to gather around the table, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a cozy weekend get-together. Let me share with you how to create this deliciousness; trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for busy weeknights – quick and easy to make!
- Budget-friendly – you probably already have most ingredients at home.
- Comforting, creamy flavors that are perfect for chilly days.
- Endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients and get ready to create a delightful bowl of soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade if possible, but store-bought works great too)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup corn (can be frozen or canned)
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, and cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps for delicious results:
- Heat the oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. This sets the stage for sautéing the veggies and brings out their flavors.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Then, toss in the minced garlic and give it another minute until it’s aromatic.
- Cook the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot, stirring well. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point; it will finish cooking later.
- Add the flavors: Now, stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, black beans, corn, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and some salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, and let it come to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer away: Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those incredible flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally; it’s your moment to take a little breather in the kitchen!
- Make it creamy: Once the chicken is cooked through, pour in the heavy cream and stir. This is where it transforms into creamy chicken tortilla soup! Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve it up: Time to dish it out! Ladle the soup into bowls and get creative with your toppings – crispy tortilla strips, cool avocado slices, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of cheese. You can never have enough goodness topping it!
Pro Tips & Variations
This soup is so forgiving and playful; don’t hesitate to mix things up a bit! Here are some fun twists and ideas:
- Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Lean proteins: Swap the chicken for turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Vegetarian delight: Substitute the chicken with additional beans or even some roasted veggies like zucchini and squash.
- Herbs and spices: Refresh the flavor profile with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, or add a splash of lime juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your creamy chicken tortilla soup, I suggest going all out! A nice crusty bread or warm tortillas on the side are perfect for scooping. Feel free to balance it out with a simple salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette. And let’s not forget a cozy mug of coffee or a zesty margarita to sip alongside your soup. It just feels right!
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store your delicious creation:
- Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes wonderfully! Just let it cool completely, then ladle it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container; liquids expand when freezing!
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat. You might want to add a splash more broth or cream to revive that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic first in a pan, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours. Stir in the cream just before serving to keep it nice and creamy!
Is this soup spicy?
The heat level really depends on the spices and toppings you choose to add! If you’re sensitive to spice, you can easily tone it down by omitting the chili powder, or using mild peppers. Feel free to taste and adjust as you go!
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, and it adds a lovely depth of flavor to the soup. Just shred it and toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking!
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can certainly enjoy this soup without dairy! Simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It’ll still be creamy and delicious!
Conclusion
And there you have it, my friends! A warm, comforting bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup ready to brighten up your day. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s all about those cozy moments at home, sharing a bite with loved ones, and creating memories that warm the heart. Don’t forget to drop a comment or share how your version turned out! Happy cooking!
Irresistible Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Quick Easy
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Savor this quick easy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe Bring flavor to your table with this delightful hearty dish for any occasion
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A warm and comforting bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup, perfect for chilly days. Simple and so delicious, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 450 calories
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
Keywords: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, cozy soup recipe, easy dinner ideas