Creamy chicken tortilla soup: 7 reasons to love it

Name: Creamy chicken tortilla soup: 7 reasons to love it
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can corn, drained; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips for topping; Fresh cilantro for garnish

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening, isn’t there? I remember the first time I made creamy chicken tortilla soup; it was one of those nights when the wind howled outside, and I just craved some comfort. As the aroma filled my kitchen, I felt wrapped in a cozy blanket of flavors. This soup is my go-to for those nights when all I want is something rich and satisfying. The creamy texture mingling with the spices and tender chicken just makes everything feel right in the world. Trust me, when you take that first spoonful, you’ll understand why this creamy chicken tortilla soup has earned a special place in my heart. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Perfect for sharing with friends or curling up with on the couch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home, too.

creamy chicken tortilla soup - detail 1

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can corn, drained
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips for topping
Fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making creamy chicken tortilla soup is a breeze! I promise, if you follow these steps, you’ll be savoring a delicious bowl in no time. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a large pot and heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This will get things started on the right foot!
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. You’ll love the aroma!
Now, stir in the drained corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. It’s coming together nicely!
Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This should take about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it!
Once simmering, add in the shredded chicken, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well and let it simmer for another 10 minutes to let those flavors meld.
Now, it’s time to make it creamy! Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir until it’s fully combined. Heat it through for about 3-5 minutes. Wow, that color!
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skip this step; it really brings the soup to life!
Your soup is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and top with crunchy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro. Enjoy it hot!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. So, think of these figures as estimates to guide you on your creamy chicken tortilla soup journey!

Here’s a quick overview of the typical nutritional values per serving (1 cup) of this delicious soup:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 20g

This creamy chicken tortilla soup is not only comforting but also packed with protein and flavor. Enjoy every spoonful knowing you’re fueling your body with goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh my goodness, where do I even start? This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a total game-changer, and here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

Comfort in a Bowl: It’s like being wrapped in a warm blanket, perfect for cozy nights.
Rich and Creamy: The heavy cream gives it that luxurious texture you crave—so smooth and satisfying!
Flavor Explosion: With cumin and chili powder, it’s got just the right kick that dances on your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, it’s a wholesome meal.
Customizable: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spices to suit your palate!
Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Family Favorite: Everyone will love it—kids and adults alike! Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Once you try this recipe, I’m sure it will become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your creamy chicken tortilla soup turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips to help you along the way:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time and boost flavor, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds a delicious depth to your soup!
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onion and garlic. Getting them nice and translucent helps build a flavorful base for your soup.
Adjust to Your Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, feel free to reduce the chili powder. You can always add more spice later if you want a kick!
Mix in Fresh Lime Juice: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lime juice into your soup just before serving. It adds a delightful brightness!
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on toppings! Crunchy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro not only look beautiful but also add great texture and flavor.
Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a bit gives the flavors time to meld together beautifully. Don’t rush this step—it’s worth it!
Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup as you’re cooking. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure it’s just right for your palate.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This soup reheats beautifully, but don’t forget to stir it well before serving!

Follow these tips, and I promise your creamy chicken tortilla soup will be a hit! Happy cooking!

Variations of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

One of the best parts about this creamy chicken tortilla soup is how adaptable it is! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:

Spicy Twist: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the pot. It’ll give your soup a fiery kick that’s absolutely delicious!
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for extra beans, like pinto or kidney beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You won’t miss the meat at all!
Dairy-Free Delight: For a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It’ll still be creamy and comforting without the dairy!
Extra Veggies: Feel free to load up on veggies! Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in when you add the corn and beans.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some shredded cheese just before serving for a melty, cheesy version. Cheddar or Monterey Jack work wonderfully here!
Southwestern Flair: Add in some corn tortillas cut into strips and stirred into the soup for a more authentic Mexican feel. They’ll soften up and add a lovely texture!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme. They’ll add a fragrant depth to the soup that’s really delightful!

These variations keep things exciting and allow you to make the soup your own. Don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients and find what makes your taste buds dance! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store your creamy chicken tortilla soup and keep it delicious for later! After you’ve savored your first bowl, you’ll likely have some leftovers, and trust me, you’ll want to enjoy them again!

To store your soup, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. I like using glass containers because they’re durable and don’t retain odors. Plus, they’re microwave-safe for easy reheating!

Once it’s in the container, you can store your creamy chicken tortilla soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. It should last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to reheat: If you’ve frozen the soup, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results. For reheating, you can either use the microwave or heat it on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Just be sure to heat it until it’s steaming hot throughout!

And don’t forget to give it a quick taste before serving! You might want to adjust the seasoning a bit after reheating. Enjoy your cozy leftovers, and feel free to top them with more tortilla strips and cilantro to make it feel fresh and exciting again!

FAQ About Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

I know you might have a few questions about this creamy chicken tortilla soup, so let’s dive into some of the most common ones I’ve encountered. I want to make sure you feel confident and excited to make this delicious dish!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding. You can even throw the frozen chicken breasts directly into the pot with the broth, let it simmer until cooked through, then shred it and continue with the recipe. It’s a great time-saver!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when you reheat it!

Is this soup spicy?

The spice level is totally adjustable! If you prefer a milder version, just reduce the amount of chili powder. If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch!

Can I freeze creamy chicken tortilla soup?

You bet! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut milk or cashew cream are fantastic substitutes that still give that creamy texture. You can also use half-and-half if you want a lighter alternative.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just toss them in when you add the corn and beans to let them cook nicely in the soup.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and tortilla strips. Just check the labels to be sure, and you’re good to go!

What toppings work best with this soup?

Oh, the toppings make all the difference! I love using crunchy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. You could also sprinkle some cheese on top for an extra indulgent touch!

Hopefully, these answers help ease your mind as you whip up this creamy chicken tortilla soup! If you have more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or White Chicken Chili for a comforting meal option!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.