Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich and flavorful broth, this soup is perfect for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly night or serve it as a crowd-pleaser at a potluck, this recipe stands out with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. Customize it with your favorite toppings for an enjoyable dining experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of spices and creamy chicken creates a deliciously satisfying soup that warms you up.
• Versatile Toppings: Load up your bowl with tortilla strips, avocado, or cheese to make it uniquely yours.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the taste of this creamy soup, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; this soup stores well in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need to prepare your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This is essential for simmering the ingredients together evenly without spilling.
• Sharp knife: A good knife helps with quick chopping of onions and other vegetables.
• Ladle: It’s perfect for serving your delicious soup into bowls without making a mess.

Ingredients

This 30-minute creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe is easy to make and has a cozy, perfectly seasoned broth. Load it up with your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal!

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (with juices)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 tablespoon chili powder

For the Add-ins

• 1 (12 ounce) can corn (drained)
• 1 (14 ounce) can black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 2 cups cooked chicken (I used a rotisserie chicken)

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Toppings (optional)

• Tortilla strips
• Avocado
• Sour cream
• Tex-Mex cheese

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Add the oil and onion to a soup pot and sauté over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes or until it’s lightly browned.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Rotel, and chicken broth. Follow this with garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, corn, and black beans. Stir well and increase the heat to high.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Once the soup has come to a boil, reduce the heat. Let it simmer with the pot covered but slightly ajar for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Toppings

While the soup simmers, prepare any desired toppings such as slicing avocado or crushing tortilla strips.

Step 5: Add Cream and Chicken

Stir in the cream and chicken into the pot. Allow it to warm through for 3-5 minutes. Taste and season with salt & pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately. Top each bowl as desired with your favorite toppings like tortilla strips or Tex-Mex cheese. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings. Serving it with the right accompaniments enhances its flavors and textures, making your meal even more satisfying.

Tortilla Strips

• Crispy tortilla strips add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy soup. You can easily make them by frying or baking corn tortillas until golden brown.

Avocado

• Creamy avocado slices lend a rich texture to the soup. Their mild flavor balances the spices, making each bite more enjoyable.

Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream provides a tangy finish that complements the savory broth. It also adds creaminess without overpowering the dish.

Tex-Mex Cheese

• Shredded Tex-Mex cheese blends beautifully with the soup’s flavors. Sprinkle it generously on top for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Fresh Cilantro

• Chopped fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness and vibrant color, brightening up each bowl. It’s perfect for those who enjoy herbal notes in their meals.

Lime Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lime juice over the soup enhances its flavor profile with a zesty kick. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate this comforting dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds great flavor. The pre-cooked chicken is tender and infused with seasonings that enhance your soup.
• Adjust Spices: Always taste as you go! You can tweak the garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder to suit your flavor preference.
• Simmer Gently: After boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. This allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully without overcooking them.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t limit yourself! Try adding jalapeños for heat or diced red onion for crunch to personalize your servings.
• Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight for full flavor development.
• Freeze Leftovers: If you have extra soup, freeze it in portions for quick meals later. Just reheat on the stove or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices makes an excellent companion. Serve it on the side or mix it into your soup for added heartiness.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a wonderful contrast in flavor and texture. It’s perfect for soaking up leftovers from your bowl.
3. Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing! Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a great appetizer before enjoying your main course.
4. Guacamole: Rich guacamole pairs nicely with tortilla soup, adding creaminess and flavor that complement each other well.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add health benefits while enhancing flavors. Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions work well together.
6. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with beans or chicken make for a filling side that goes hand-in-hand with your creamy soup.
7. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers freshness and crunch that balances out the richness of the soup perfectly.
8. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide an earthy contrast; they are satisfying alongside any bowl of creamy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy chicken tortilla soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Not sautéing the onions properly: This step adds depth to the flavor. Make sure to sauté until they are lightly browned for a richer taste.
• Skipping the seasoning: Underseasoned soup can be bland. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper before serving.
• Overcooking the cream: Adding cream too soon or cooking it for too long can lead to curdling. Stir it in at the end and warm gently.
• Ignoring toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t forget to load your soup with tortilla strips, avocado, or cheese for a delightful finish.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield better results. Opt for high-quality chicken broth and tomatoes for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy chicken tortilla soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Freeze creamy chicken tortilla soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Consider freezing without cream; add it when reheating.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add extra cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or using spicy Rotel tomatoes.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of creamy chicken tortilla soup.

What toppings should I use for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Popular toppings include crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste!

How long does creamy chicken tortilla soup last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, creamy chicken tortilla soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken tortilla soup is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, loaded with toppings or simple, this recipe invites customization. Give it a try today!