Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Rich and Flavorful Recipe

November 30, 2025February 4, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make creamy chicken tortilla soup, you’ll need:

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced

– 1 medium jalapeño, deseeded and finely minced

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices

– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 cup corn kernels (can be fresh, frozen, or canned)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Tortilla strips, for garnish

– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

– Slices of avocado, for garnish

– Lime wedges, for serving

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap some ingredients for different flavors or needs:

– Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

– If you dislike jalapeños, try bell peppers for less heat.

– Substitute chicken with cooked turkey or beans for a vegetarian option.

– Use vegetable broth if you want a lighter soup.

– Canned tomatoes can be swapped with fresh ones if you prefer.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of creamy chicken tortilla soup contains:

– Calories: Approximately 400 kcal

– Protein: 25g

– Fat: 25g

– Carbohydrates: 30g

– Fiber: 4g

– Sodium: 800mg

This soup is rich and filling, perfect for a cozy meal. Enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Instructions

Gather your ingredients first. This makes cooking easier. You will need:

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced

– 1 medium jalapeño, deseeded and finely minced

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices

– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 cup corn kernels (can be fresh, frozen, or canned)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Tortilla strips, for garnish

– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

– Slices of avocado, for garnish

– Lime wedges, for serving

Chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño. This helps release their flavors.

Cooking Process

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to be soft and clear. Next, add the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook these for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often to avoid burning.

Now, add the shredded chicken and mix it with the veggies. It should smell great! Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and green chilies. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. Turn up the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Once it boils, lower the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This lets the flavors blend well. After that, stir in the corn and heavy cream. Mix gently and warm it for another 5 minutes. Make sure it doesn’t boil again.

Tips for Achieving the Right Consistency

To get the perfect creamy texture, use full-fat heavy cream. This keeps the soup thick and rich. If the soup seems too thick, add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to taste the soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Serve it hot and garnish with tortilla strips, cilantro, and avocado slices. The lime wedges add a nice zesty touch!

Tips & Tricks

How to Enhance Flavor

To boost the flavor of your creamy chicken tortilla soup, use fresh herbs. Fresh cilantro adds a bright taste. You can also squeeze lime juice into the soup for a zesty kick. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Roasting your veggies before adding them to the pot can also deepen the flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not sautéing the onion and garlic long enough. You want them soft and fragrant. Be careful not to skip the simmering step. This helps all the flavors come together. Adding the heavy cream too early can make it curdle, so wait until the end. Finally, remember to taste your soup before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your soup hot in colorful bowls to make it look appealing. Top with crispy tortilla strips for crunch. Add fresh cilantro and slices of avocado for creaminess. A wedge of lime on the side brightens the dish. You can also serve it with warm tortillas or cornbread. This makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Variations

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you love heat, make a spicy chicken tortilla soup. Start by adding more jalapeños. You can use two or even three, depending on your taste. For extra spice, toss in some cayenne pepper. A dash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor. This soup will warm you up on a cold day!

Vegetarian Version

You can easily make a vegetarian version. Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add black beans or pinto beans for protein. This version is still creamy and packed with flavor. Everyone will enjoy it, even meat lovers!

Adding Extra Proteins or Beans

If you want more protein, add beans or lentils. Black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas work great. Cook them with the soup for added flavor. You can also toss in cooked quinoa or rice for a heartier meal. This way, you get a filling soup that satisfies hunger while keeping it delicious!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store your creamy chicken tortilla soup, let it cool first. Once cooled, pour it into an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date.

Freezing Guidelines

You can freeze this soup, too! First, cool the soup completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Seal tightly and label. It can last in the freezer for about three months. When you want to eat it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating is simple! For the best taste, use a pot on the stove. Pour in the soup and heat over medium-low. Stir often until hot. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. You can also use a microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Just be careful not to overheat it!

FAQs

Can I make creamy chicken tortilla soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make creamy chicken tortilla soup in a slow cooker. Start by sautéing the onion, garlic, and peppers in a pan. Then, add them to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. When it’s almost done, stir in the heavy cream. This method lets the flavors blend well, making the soup rich and tasty.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Another choice is using a mix of milk and cornstarch to thicken the soup. Just remember that these options will change the taste a bit, but they will still keep your soup creamy.

How long can I store this soup in the fridge?

You can store creamy chicken tortilla soup in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure to put it in an airtight container. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. Just remember to leave out the toppings until you are ready to serve.

This blog post covered all you need for a great chicken tortilla soup. We discussed ingredients, substitutions, and nutrition facts. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation and cooking. I shared tips to enhance flavors and avoid common mistakes.

You can explore variations for spice, vegetarian options, or adding proteins. Plus, I provided storage info for leftovers, freezing, and reheating. Follow these ideas, and you’ll make a delicious soup. Enjoy creating your perfect tortilla sou