As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s where my CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP comes in! This delightful dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Imagine a warm bowl of creamy goodness, filled with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a hint of spice. It’s the perfect solution for a hectic weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends. Trust me, this soup will become a family favorite, bringing smiles and satisfaction to your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The rich, creamy texture combined with the zesty flavors will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken from a previous meal.
- Corn kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn adds sweetness and texture.
- Black beans: These provide protein and a hearty feel. Rinse them well to reduce sodium.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: This adds a zesty kick. You can use plain diced tomatoes if you prefer less heat.
- Chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, it forms the soup’s flavorful base.
- Heavy cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and rich. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic goodness that elevates the dish.
- Cumin: This spice gives a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Chili powder: A must for that classic Mexican flavor. Adjust to your spice preference!
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste as you go!
- Tortilla strips: These are perfect for garnish, adding crunch and visual appeal.
- Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro brightens the soup and adds freshness.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they turn translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial! It builds a flavor foundation that makes your soup irresistible.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add the star players! Toss in the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. The colors and aromas will start to dance around your kitchen!
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Now, crank up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll want to stir occasionally, just to keep things from sticking.
Step 4: Add the Cream
After simmering, it’s time for the magic touch! Stir in the heavy cream and heat through for a few minutes. This is where the soup transforms into a creamy delight. The texture will be velvety, and your taste buds will thank you!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls while it’s hot. Don’t forget to garnish with crispy tortilla strips and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This not only adds a pop of color but also a delightful crunch. Your CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider roasting the corn before adding it to the soup.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder to suit your family’s taste.
- Don’t skip the garnishes; they elevate the dish visually and add texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy reheating later.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A Dutch oven works great, but any heavy-bottomed pot will do.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Measuring cups: Essential for accurate ingredient portions.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping veggies and shredding chicken.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with extra beans or roasted vegetables for a hearty meatless version.
- Low-Fat Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or opt for a low-fat cream alternative.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a cheesy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for added depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread for dipping.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
- Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls to brighten up your table.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
As you embark on your culinary adventure with CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding. You can even toss it in the pot with the other ingredients and let it simmer until cooked through.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. You can also increase the chili powder for an extra kick!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, it is! Just ensure that your chicken broth and any additional ingredients are labeled gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative works well. You’ll still get that creamy texture without the extra calories!
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. My CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP embodies that spirit. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s a dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to impress. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. So grab your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
Print
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Your New Favorite Recipe!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and creamy chicken tortilla soup that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips and fresh cilantro.
Notes
- For a spicier soup, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, Chicken Soup, Mexican Soup, Comfort Food