There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup. Picture it: velvety broth, tender chicken, and a fiesta of toppings that make your taste buds do the salsa. This dish wraps you in a cozy embrace as soon as you take that first spoonful, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you just need a little pick-me-up.
Remember those rainy days when all you wanted was a hug in the form of food? Well, this creamy chicken tortilla soup is that hug! Whether it’s a family gathering or a solo night in with your favorite Netflix series, this soup brings warmth and nostalgia, promising to fill your belly and lift your spirits. Get ready for an explosion of flavors, textures, and aromas that will have you dreaming about second servings!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken tortilla soup is an easy dish that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory spices with creamy goodness for an unforgettable experience.
- The vibrant colors from the toppings make it a feast for the eyes as well.
- You can easily modify ingredients based on pantry finds or dietary needs, ensuring everyone loves it!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; they soak up flavors beautifully while keeping everything tender.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum aroma—nobody wants a weak garlic smell in their life.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness; chop it finely to avoid any tears during prep.
Chicken Broth: Go for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness; no one likes a heartburn crisis!
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes if you’re feeling adventurous; they add an extra kick.
For the Sauce:
Cream Cheese: This is what gives our soup its dreamy texture—make sure it’s softened to blend easily.
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These aromatic spices bring out the bold flavors in your soup, making every bite exciting.
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Base
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about five minutes. Try not to eat them raw; they smell amazing!
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Next up, throw those boneless chicken breasts into the pot. Stir around for about five minutes until they are lightly browned. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked through; they will finish cooking later.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about ten minutes. The aroma should have everyone wandering into the kitchen by now.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Add cream cheese along with cumin and chili powder into the pot. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy—this is where things get ultra-delicious!
Step 5: Shred That Chicken
Once your chicken has cooked through (about another ten minutes), remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into your glorious soup.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your creamy chicken tortilla soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, cheese, or whatever else tickles your fancy!
As you savor each spoonful of this creamy goodness, don’t forget to invite loved ones to join you! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Cheers to soul-warming meals!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken tortilla soup is not just a bowl of goodness; it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day.
- It’s rich, full of flavor, and has the perfect balance of spice.
- Plus, it’s easy to whip up for any occasion!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a large pot to lock in that mouthwatering flavor. While the chicken sizzles, chop your veggies and prepare any seasonings. Once cooked, add everything together and let those flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this soup! Swap out chicken for turkey or add beans for extra protein. Want more heat? Toss in some jalapeños or switch up the spices to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover creamy chicken tortilla soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, let the soup simmer longer; it enhances all those delicious spices.
- When adding cream, do so at the end to prevent curdling.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; it makes all the difference!
Sharing this recipe with friends is always a hit; they rave about it every time we have our cozy get-togethers! It’s like magic in a bowl that brings everyone together.
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
To make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need cooked chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell peppers, corn, black beans, and a blend of spices. For creaminess, add heavy cream or cream cheese. Don’t forget tortilla strips for garnish! You can customize this recipe with your favorite toppings like avocado or cilantro.
How long does it take to prepare Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Preparing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup typically takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. This means you can enjoy a delicious homemade soup in less than an hour! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have unexpected guests. The quick preparation makes it a go-to recipe in many households.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in advance?
Yes, you can make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in advance. Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cream and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove and stir in the cream for that luscious texture.
What are some variations for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?
There are many ways to customize your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. You can make it spicier by adding jalapeños or using spicy salsa. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt. Additionally, you can replace chicken with turkey or shrimp if desired. These variations keep your soup exciting and flavorful.
Conclusion for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with creamy richness. By utilizing simple ingredients like chicken, broth, and spices, you can create a delightful meal that’s both filling and satisfying. This versatile recipe allows for plenty of customization based on personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or served as a quick weeknight dinner, this soup will surely become a family favorite!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or gatherings. This rich and velvety soup features tender chicken, a delightful blend of spices, and is topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh garnishes. In just under 30 minutes, you can create this flavorful dish that warms both your heart and taste buds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add chicken breasts to the pot and cook until lightly browned, approximately 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in cream cheese, cumin, and chili powder until creamy and well combined.
- Once the chicken is cooked through (about another 10 minutes), shred it using two forks and return it to the soup.
- Serve hot in bowls topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, cheese, or cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - Customize your soup by adding beans or corn for extra texture. - For a spicier kick, include jalapeños or spicy salsa. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
