Irresistible Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

I can still remember that chilly evening when I first tried creamy chicken tortilla soup. The aroma wafting through the air reminded me of cozy family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. Each spoonful felt like a warm hug, with rich flavors dancing in my mouth, making it impossible to stop at just one bowl.

Fast forward to today, and this creamy chicken tortilla soup has firmly secured its place as a household favorite. It’s perfect for those lazy Sundays or busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet effortless. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why everyone raves about it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy chicken tortilla soup is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
  • It boasts a flavor profile that balances spice and creaminess beautifully
  • The vibrant colors make it visually enticing, and its versatility allows for endless variations based on your ingredients

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how comforting and delicious this soup was during our last dinner party.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your crowd size for optimal flavor.

  • Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh cloves to ensure a robust flavor that brightens the soup.

  • Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté until translucent for maximum sweetness.

  • Bell Peppers: Choose colorful peppers for visual appeal and a hint of sweetness; they brighten up the dish nicely.

  • Chicken Broth: Go for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while allowing other flavors to shine.

  • Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with green chilies for added spice; they bring an exciting kick!

  • Heavy Cream: This is the magic ingredient that creates that luscious creaminess we all crave.

  • Tortilla Chips: Use crisp chips for crunch; they will elevate each bite of this tasty soup!

  • Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds a pop of freshness; chop it finely and sprinkle before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s embark on this culinary adventure together.

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent—about 3-4 minutes should do it.

Cooking the Chicken: Toss in your boneless chicken breasts next. Season them with salt and pepper while browning them slightly on both sides—this step takes about 5-6 minutes.

Add the Vegetables and Broth: Throw in chopped bell peppers along with canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer, letting those flavors meld together beautifully—about 15-20 minutes of simmering should suffice.

Shredding the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked through (reaching 165°F), remove it from the pot. Shred it using two forks while it’s still warm; feel free to channel your inner chef here!

Mixing in Creaminess: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well combined. Watch as your soup transforms into a dreamy concoction—this is where the magic happens!

Topping It Off!: To serve, ladle hot soup into bowls over crispy tortilla chips. Top generously with fresh cilantro if desired—and don’t forget extra chips on the side!

Now you’re ready to dive into this mouthwatering creamy chicken tortilla soup that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

You Must Know

  • This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings
  • The delightful blend of spices and textures will make your kitchen smell like a fiesta, while the simplicity of the recipe ensures that you won’t need a culinary degree to impress your loved ones

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken and broth for optimal flavor blending.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for beans or tofu for a vegetarian version, and add extra toppings like avocado or cheese for fun.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until hot.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To enhance the flavor of your creamy chicken tortilla soup, consider using homemade stock instead of store-bought
  • Additionally, adding fresh lime juice just before serving brightens the taste immensely
  • Don’t be shy with toppings; they elevate the dish into something special!

I remember the first time I made this creamy chicken tortilla soup for my friends. They devoured it, and one even proclaimed it as “life-changing,” which is quite the compliment coming from a foodie!

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best way to thicken creamy chicken tortilla soup?

Use cornstarch mixed with cold water or blend part of the soup for a creamy texture.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.

What ingredients can I add to enhance flavor?

Consider adding jalapeños, corn, or black beans for additional flavors and textures.

Print
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Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup


  • Author: Ethan Brooks
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x

Description

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out. This easy-to-make soup combines tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a rich creaminess that will have your taste buds dancing. Topped with crunchy tortilla chips and fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for cozy weeknights or gatherings with friends. Once you try this delicious recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups tortilla chips
  • Fresh cilantro (optional), for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent (3-4 minutes).
  2. Add chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper; brown on both sides for about 5-6 minutes.
  3. Stir in bell peppers, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Remove chicken once cooked through (165°F), shred using two forks.
  5. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream until well combined.
  6. Serve hot over tortilla chips, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 610mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 19g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for black beans or tofu. Enhance flavors by adding jalapeños or corn. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

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