If you’ve been searching for a soul-soothing dish that’s packed with vibrant flavors and a touch of creamy indulgence, this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s the perfect bowl of comfort, combining tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a rich, velvety broth that brings a festive flair to every spoonful. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly evening or a lively dish to share with friends, this soup hits all the right notes with its delightful textures and layers of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the joy of making this soup. Each element plays a crucial role, offering balance in flavor, texture, and color that makes this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe downright irresistible.
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded: Tender chicken provides the heartiness and protein that makes the soup filling.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and ensures your onions and garlic cook perfectly without sticking.
- 1 onion, chopped: Builds a sweet, aromatic base that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with a robust kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and a vibrant hue to brighten the soup.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds earthiness, fiber, and a satisfying texture contrast.
- 1 cup corn kernels: Offers bursts of natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates the flavorful, nourishing liquid that carries all the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret to that creamy, luscious mouthfeel that elevates this soup.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Brings warmth and a subtle smoky depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Adds a gentle earthiness that perfectly complements the chili powder.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the soup’s flavors.
- Tortilla chips, for topping: Provide irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Offers a bright, herbal freshness that livens every spoonful.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Step 1: Heat Olive Oil
Start by warming up your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This is where the flavor magic begins, as the oil gently warms to create the perfect environment for sautéing your aromatics.
Step 2: Cook Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring occasionally as they soften and release their fragrances. About three minutes is perfect to build a rich, savory base that invites you to smell all the delicious layers ahead.
Step 3: Add Ingredients and Simmer
Next, toss in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about ten minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a harmonious, hearty broth.
Step 4: Add Shredded Chicken
Stir in your cooked and shredded chicken breast, letting it soak up those delicious flavors. Keep the soup at a simmer for another ten minutes to ensure the chicken remains tender and well-seasoned.
Step 5: Stir in the Heavy Cream
This is the moment that transforms your soup from delightful to indulgent. Add the half cup of heavy cream, stirring gently to blend it in. Cook for an additional five minutes, giving the cream time to infuse the soup with that rich, silky texture you’ll love.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your soup into bowls and crown each serving with crunchy tortilla chips and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This finishing touch adds both texture and a visual pop of color, making every bite a celebration.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the classic tortilla chips and cilantro, think about adding shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor depth. These toppings invite you to customize your comfort bowl to exactly how you like it.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some warm quesadillas creates a satisfying meal that feels lovingly complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small mason jars or colorful bowls at your next gathering. Adding a sprinkle of crushed spicy tortilla chips on top just before serving gives it a playful crunch and flair that always impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and robust flavors, making it perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for a longer time, this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe freezes well. Just be mindful to freeze it before adding the heavy cream, which can change texture after thawing. Add the cream fresh when reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the cream from separating. Warm it just until heated through to enjoy that lovely creamy consistency every time.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut and adds great flavor, making your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe even easier to prepare without sacrificing taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version, while keeping all the other delicious ingredients intact for a creamy, satisfying soup.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Definitely! Simply increase the chili powder or add some diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions and garlic, adjusting the heat to your preference for a bold kick.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?
Using two forks to pull the chicken apart works great, or simply toss the cooked chicken breasts into a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed for effortless shredding.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can try half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Experiment to find the perfect balance that suits your taste and diet.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a bowl of soup that feels like a hug in every spoonful, and this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe fits that description perfectly. With its vibrant ingredients and comforting creaminess, it’s a dish you’ll want on repeat, whether for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. So don your favorite apron and dive into this rich, flavorful soup that’s ready to become your new go-to recipe!
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Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal combining tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a touch of creamy heavy cream. Infused with chili powder and cumin, this warming soup is perfect for cozy dinners and is topped with crunchy tortilla chips and fresh cilantro for added texture and freshness.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Toppings
- Tortilla chips, for topping
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to blend flavors and heat through.
- Stir in Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes until the soup is creamy and warmed through.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with crunchy tortilla chips and fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience and to add extra flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the black beans before adding them to the pot.
- Vegetarian option: omit chicken and use vegetable broth instead.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra broth or cream if needed.
