Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. Loaded with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and a creamy base, it’s topped with crispy tortilla strips and your favorite garnishes for a satisfying and customizable dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The addition of heavy cream adds a velvety texture.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite toppings and add-ins.
• Family Favorite: A comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
• Onion, chopped – ½ medium
• Crushed tomatoes – 1 (28-ounce) can
• Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (with juices) – 1 (10-ounce) can
• Chicken broth – 1 cup
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Chili powder – ½ tablespoon
• Corn, drained – 1 (12-ounce) can
• Black beans, drained and rinsed – 1 (14-ounce) can
• Heavy/whipping cream – 1 cup
• Cooked chicken (e.g., rotisserie chicken), shredded or chopped – 2 cups
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Optional Toppings: Tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, shredded Tex-Mex cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients

1. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes (with their juices), and chicken broth.
2. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, corn, and black beans. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
2. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Cream and Chicken

1. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked chicken.
2. Let the soup warm through for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve hot, topped with tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, or any of your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter soup.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans or veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheese directly into the soup for a cheesy base.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?

Yes, add raw chicken breasts or thighs to the soup during the simmering step, cook until fully cooked (about 15–20 minutes), then shred or chop.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients except for the cream and cooked chicken in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, then stir in the cream and cooked chicken before serving.

3. What kind of beans can I use?

Black beans are traditional, but pinto or kidney beans work well too.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.

5. Can I add rice to this soup?

Absolutely! Cooked rice can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for added texture.

6. What are the best toppings for this soup?

Tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro are all great options.

7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 4–5 fresh tomatoes, chopped, and adjust the liquid by adding a bit more broth if needed.

8. How do I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans or add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Use a larger pot and adjust seasoning to taste.

10. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a deliciously comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, hearty beans, and a creamy base, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to please. Top it with your favorite garnishes for a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Print