Name: Delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1 jalapeno pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, diced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained; 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 5 cups chicken broth; 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups shredded chicken; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce; 1 oz packet taco seasoning (about 3 tablespoons); 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened; Corn or flour tortillas (for topping)

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. This rich and delicious creamy chicken tortilla soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of spices, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Each spoonful is a delightful experience that warms you from the inside out. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is a family favorite for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. You can whip it up in just 45 minutes, making it a go-to for busy evenings. The combination of flavors from Chicken Tortilla Soup with Cream creates a rich and satisfying taste that will keep you coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy, satisfying various dietary needs. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in veggies for the kids, making it a family-friendly creamy chicken tortilla soup option. Not to mention, the leftovers are just as delicious!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, diced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
5 cups chicken broth
2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups shredded chicken
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon cumin
1-2 teaspoons hot sauce
1 oz packet taco seasoning (about 3 tablespoons)
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1/3 cup cream cheese, softened
Corn or flour tortillas (for topping)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, jalapeno, and garlic until softened.
Step 2: Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly.
Step 3: Add corn, diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and chicken. Season with cayenne, cumin, hot sauce, and taco seasoning.
Step 4: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
Step 6: Stir in cheddar and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 7: Serve hot, topped with tortilla strips.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh veggies and high-quality chicken broth make a significant difference.
If you love spice, consider adding more jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy creamy chicken tortilla soup.
This soup can be easily made in a slow cooker. Just add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hassle-free meal.
For added creaminess, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese.

Delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup for Cozy Nights - Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

There are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy your Creamy Tortilla Chicken Soup. Here are a few ideas:

Top with avocado slices for a fresh twist.
Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro for extra flavor.
Serve with warm, crispy tortilla chips on the side.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To store your leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients and balancing the spices. Using fresh vegetables and good chicken broth enhances the flavors of this delicious creamy chicken tortilla soup.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It reheats beautifully for a quick meal later on.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Cook just until done, then shred and return it to the soup to keep it tender.

Variations of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup You Can Try

There are many tasty variations of this soup you can experiment with:

For a healthy creamy chicken tortilla soup, use low-fat cheese and add more vegetables.
Add a can of diced green chilies for an extra flavor punch.
Try adding some quinoa for added texture and protein.
For a twist, incorporate some lime juice and cilantro for a zesty finish.

Delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup for Cozy Nights - Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup - additional detail

For more tips on cooking and recipes, check out this guide on cooking techniques. You can also explore family-friendly meals and healthy cooking options for more inspiration!