BEST-EVER CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP – easymealstoprep

Okay, let’s dive into creating this delicious, comforting Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!

I still remember the first time I tasted a truly great tortilla soup. It was at a small, family-run restaurant, and the aroma alone transported me to a warmer place. I knew right then I had to learn how to recreate that magic at home. The challenge? Finding the perfect balance of spice, creamy texture, and authentic flavor. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup you’ll ever make!

The Ultimate Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

This isn’t just *any* chicken tortilla soup recipe. This is *the* recipe. The one you’ll turn to again and again when you crave something comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy broth that’s just begging to be topped with crispy tortilla strips and your favorite garnishes. Are you ready to create a soup masterpiece? Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we jump into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples, and a quick trip to the grocery store will cover the rest. This list is designed to create a soup that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a cozy night in.

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer a richer flavor)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing
• Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (or more if you’re a garlic lover like me!)
• Bell Pepper: 1, diced (I like to use a mix of red and green for color)
• Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (optional, for heat – adjust to your preference)
• Corn: 1 cup, frozen or canned (drained)
• Black Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5-ounce) can, undrained
• Chicken Broth: 6 cups (low sodium is best, so you can control the salt level)
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons
• Cumin: 1 tablespoon
• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon, dried
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened
• Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, fresh
• Optional Garnishes: Tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll have a pot of incredible Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup simmering in no time. I’ve broken it down into easy-to-follow steps, so even beginner cooks can achieve soup perfection. Trust me, you’ve got this!

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. This will help build flavor from the very beginning.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this point; we’re just building flavor.
3. Remove and Shred: Take the chicken out of the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred it with two forks.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should become translucent and the peppers slightly tender.
5. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step is crucial for blooming the spices and releasing their full flavor.
6. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, corn, and black beans. Stir well to combine.
7. Return Chicken to Pot: Add the shredded chicken back to the pot.
8. Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become!
9. Stir in Cream Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Cut the softened cream cheese into cubes and stir into the soup until completely melted and smooth. Be patient; it might take a few minutes for the cream cheese to fully incorporate. The soup will become beautifully creamy and luscious.
10. Add Lime Juice: Stir in the fresh lime juice. This adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the soup.
11. Season to Taste: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
12. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges are all fantastic choices.

Success Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Want to guarantee soup success? Here are my top tips for creating the most delicious, flavorful Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup every single time. These are the little secrets that take this recipe from good to absolutely unforgettable.

• Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken is essential for developing a rich, savory flavor. The browning process creates delicious caramelized notes that will infuse the entire soup.
• Bloom Your Spices: Cooking the spices with the vegetables for a minute before adding the liquids helps to “bloom” them, releasing their full aroma and flavor. This is a game-changer!
• Use High-Quality Chicken Broth: The quality of your chicken broth will significantly impact the flavor of the soup. Opt for a low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness yourself. Homemade broth is even better if you have the time!
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the soup. This will prevent clumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture. You can even microwave it for a few seconds to speed up the process.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt, pepper, or lime juice can make a big difference.

Variations and Adaptations

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spice It Up: Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You could also use a spicier chili powder.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, squash, or carrots.
• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add extra beans or tofu for protein.
• Use a Slow Cooker: Sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese and lime juice before serving.
• Add Some Greens: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also delicious served with a side of cornbread or a simple salad. Here are a few other serving suggestions:

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with a generous pile of crispy tortilla chips for dipping or crumbling on top.
• Avocado Toast: A slice of avocado toast makes a perfect accompaniment.
• Quesadillas: Serve with a side of cheesy quesadillas for a heartier meal.

And while we’re talking about comfort food, have you ever tried CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP? It’s another one of my absolute favorites, especially on a cold day. The tender dumplings and rich broth are simply irresistible. Or, if you’re craving something cheesy and comforting, you absolutely *must* try my CREAMY TORTELLINI SOUP. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – a true weeknight winner!

Making it even creamier and flavorful

Sometimes I love to really amplify the creaminess and flavor of this soup. Here are a few extra tips for those days you want to go all out:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roast the onions, peppers and garlic before adding them to the soup. Roasting brings out a sweetness and depth of flavor that really elevates the soup.
• Chicken Thighs: While chicken breasts are great, chicken thighs offer a richer, more savory flavor. Try using a combination of both!
• Add a touch of heat: Instead of just jalapenos, try adding a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky heat that complements the other spices beautifully.
• Blend a portion: For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend about a third of the soup before adding the cream cheese. This creates a velvety base that’s simply divine.

Speaking of creamy, did you know I have a recipe for CREAMY CHICKEN TORTELLINI HEAVEN? It’s a pasta dish, not a soup, but it shares that wonderful creamy texture and comforting flavor profile. If you’re in the mood for something with a kick, my CAJUN CHICKEN SOUP HEAVEN is sure to please. It’s packed with spice and flavor, and it’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Lucky you if there are leftovers! Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, the cream cheese may slightly change the texture upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the cream cheese after thawing and reheating. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Also if you love creamy comforting soups, you need to check out my Creamy White Chicken Chili, the slow cooker version is Crockpot White Chicken Chili they are great options too!

There you have it! My tried-and-true recipe for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. I truly believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let’s get cooking!

Enjoy!