Name: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: for cooking oil (for frying the tortilla strips); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion (chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne; 3 cups cooked chicken (diced/shredded); 6 cups chicken stock; 15 oz black beans (drained and rinsed); 15 oz sweet corn (drained and rinsed); 14.5 oz fire roasted tomatoes; 4 oz diced green chiles; 1/2 cup sour cream; 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (velveeta is also a good option!); 1/2 cup cilantro (finely chopped); jalapeños (to taste); fresh cilantro (to taste); crispy corn tortilla strips ((see recipe))

Introduction to Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Why You Need This Soup in Your Life

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food that warms you from the inside out, look no further than this creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe. It’s a delightful blend of savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and spices, all wrapped up in a rich, creamy base. Ideal for cozy nights in, this dish combines the heartiness of a classic soup with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.

Imagine coming home after a long day and serving yourself a bowl of this deliciousness. The creamy texture, paired with crispy tortilla strips and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, elevates this simple soup to something truly special. With flavors that are both comforting and exciting, it’s perfect for a weekday dinner or as a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings.

One of the best parts? It’s incredibly easy to make! In just about 22 minutes, you can whip up a pot that serves six. Plus, it’s flexible—feel free to adjust the spice levels or add your favorite toppings. Don't forget to check out our guide on how to make the best chicken stock for an added depth of flavor. Now, let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Essential ingredients

Creating a creamy chicken tortilla soup that's bursting with flavor starts with the right ingredients. Here's what you'll need for this cozy dish:

Crispy Tortilla Strips: 4 corn tortillas and oil for frying
Soup Base:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large chopped onion
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves minced garlic
Spices:
2 tablespoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
⅛ teaspoon cayenne (adjust for spice preference!)
Main Ingredients:
3 cups cooked chicken (diced/shredded)
6 cups chicken stock
15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
15 oz can sweet corn (drained and rinsed)
14.5 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes
4 oz can diced green chiles
Creaminess:
½ cup sour cream
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (Velveeta works too!)
½ cup finely chopped cilantro

These ingredients come together to create a hearty meal, perfect for any night of the week!

Optional garnishes

While the soup itself is a delight, garnishes can elevate your creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe to the next level. Consider topping your soup with:

Fresh jalapeños for added zest
A sprinkle of extra cilantro for freshness
Crispy corn tortilla strips for crunch

Feel free to mix and match your garnishes based on your taste buds—it's your soup, after all! If you're curious about the benefits of adding fresh herbs, check out this article on Herbs in Cooking to learn more!

Step-by-step preparation of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creating this comforting creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe is not just about grabbing a few ingredients; it’s also about savoring the process! Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can enjoy every moment in the kitchen.

Prepare the crispy tortilla strips

Start by preparing your crispy tortilla strips, which add a delightful crunch to the soup.

Slice the tortillas: Take 4 corn tortillas and cut them into thin strips.
Heat the oil: In a skillet, heat enough oil for frying over medium heat.
Fry until golden: Carefully add the strips to the hot oil, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy. This takes just a couple of minutes.
Drain and set aside: Once crispy, let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Set these aside; they’ll be the perfect topping for your soup!

Sauté the vegetables

Next, let’s build flavor by sautéing your vegetables.

Add olive oil: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the onion and bell pepper: Add one chopped large onion and one chopped green bell pepper. Sauté these until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate garlic and spices: Add 4 minced cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, and a hint of cayenne (⅛ teaspoon). Cook everything for about 2 minutes until it’s wonderfully fragrant.

Combine the ingredients

Now, let’s combine all those delicious ingredients into a hearty soup.

Add the chicken and stock: Stir in 3 cups of diced or shredded cooked chicken and pour in 6 cups of chicken stock.
Include the canned goodies: Add in a drained 15oz can of black beans, a drained 15oz can of sweet corn, a 14.5oz can of fire-roasted tomatoes, and a 4oz can of diced green chiles for an extra kick. This is where the soup gets its robust flavor!

Simmer and stir

It’s time to let those flavors mingle.

Bring to a simmer: Cook over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the soup heated through and all those flavors blended together perfectly.

Finish the soup

It’s almost time to enjoy your delicious creation!

Stir in the creamy elements: Remove the pot from heat. Gently stir in ½ cup of sour cream and 8 oz of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. The creaminess is what makes this soup truly comforting!
Garnish and serve: Dish it up and garnish with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and those crispy tortilla strips you made earlier. Enjoy the warmth and flavor with every spoonful!

And there you have it—the beautiful creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe that will surely become a favorite at your table. Happy cooking!

Variations on Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

For those who crave an extra kick, try adding more heat with some sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also incorporate additional spices like chipotle powder or fresh chiles to give the creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe a smoky flavor. Want it even hotter? Replace the black beans with spicy chorizo for a flavorful twist that will awaken your taste buds!

Vegetarian Option

If you're looking for a meatless meal, simply swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Keep the base creamy by adding additional sour cream or a splash of coconut milk for richness. Legumes such as lentils or chickpeas can boost the protein content while maintaining the flavor profile of the classic creamy chicken tortilla soup. This way, you can enjoy a satisfying bowl that's just as heartwarming without the chicken!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Creating the perfect creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe is simple with a few handy tips.

Customize the Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or even some diced jalapeños while cooking. Remember, you can always start with less and adjust as you go!
Make-Ahead Magic: This soup is perfect for meal prep! Cook a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it without the sour cream. Just stir it in when you reheat for the best creamy texture.
Cheesy Variation: For a little twist, consider swapping shredded cheddar for a creamy cheese like cream cheese. It adds a delightful tanginess!

For further inspiration, check out Chicken Cooking Tips for more ideas on preparing chicken dishes. Enjoy crafting this delicious soup!

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ideal Accompaniments

When enjoying your creamy chicken tortilla soup, consider pairing it with fresh toppings like sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips. For an extra kick, add a dollop of salsa or avocado, enhancing both flavor and texture. These fresh additions not only elevate your meal but also offer a vibrant visual appeal.

Perfect Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve a side of Mexican-inspired cornbread or a refreshing slaw. A simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette complements the soup beautifully and adds some crunch. You might also enjoy your favorite tortilla chips to dip alongside. Elevate your dining experience further by pairing it with a chilled sparkling water or a fruity iced tea, making this comforting dish feel even more special!

Feel free to explore more on side dish ideas for your creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe for inspiration.

Time breakdown for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Preparation time

With just a quick 5 minutes of prep, you can have your ingredients ready to go. Slice your tortillas, chop your veggies, and gather your spices efficiently. In no time, you’ll be ready to start cooking this delicious creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe.

Cooking time

For the cooking phase, set aside about 17 minutes. This time allows for sautéing your onions and peppers, adding in the tender chicken, beans, and other ingredients, and letting it all meld into a warm, satisfying bowl of comfort.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at 22 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch, this speedy recipe will have you enjoying a hearty bowl of soup in no time! If you’re looking to double or modify ingredients, just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Now that you know the breakdown, let’s dive into the recipe!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Calories

This creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe packs a hearty punch with approximately 605 calories per serving. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something comforting yet satisfying.

Protein

You'll get about 40 grams of protein from each serving, thanks to the combination of diced chicken and beans. It's an excellent way to boost your daily protein intake and keep you feeling full longer.

Sodium

Keep an eye on sodium content as this soup contains about 1200 mg per serving. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken stock or rinsing canned beans to reduce the overall sodium levels without sacrificing flavor. For more tips on managing sodium in soups, visit American Heart Association.

Follow these nutritional guidelines to enjoy this delicious soup while keeping your wellness goals in check. Make it part of your regular meal rotation for a quick, nutritious dinner!

FAQs about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! This creamy chicken tortilla soup is perfect for freezing. Just remember to leave out the sour cream when you initially make it. Add it in after you've reheated the soup for the best texture and flavor. Stored properly, it can last up to three months in the freezer.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, there are plenty of tasty options! Greek yogurt works wonderfully, adding creaminess and a bit of tang. You could also try cream cheese for an extra-rich flavor, or a dairy-free option like cashew cream if you're avoiding dairy altogether.

How do I make it spicier?

Love a kick in your soup? It’s easy to add more spice! Simply increase the cayenne pepper in the recipe or toss in some chopped jalapeños while cooking. For an extra layer of flavor, consider using a spicier salsa or hot sauce as a garnish when serving. Tailor the heat to your taste and enjoy the warmth!

Feel free to explore more tips and dishes that will complement your creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe!

Conclusion on Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

In conclusion, this creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe is your ticket to a comforting meal that's quick to prepare and utterly delicious. Perfect for cozy evenings or gathering with friends, this soup combines vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love. Give it a try, and savor every bowl!