Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s a creamy chicken tortilla soup. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your household, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table for hearty meals, especially during the colder months. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother making her famous tortilla soup. The aroma would fill the house, drawing us in as we eagerly awaited our bowls. Inspired by her love for cooking and the joy it brought to our family, I developed my own creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe that honors those cherished moments while adding my personal touch.
What Makes This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its rich creaminess combined with the hearty flavors of chicken, beans, and spices. The use of both crushed tomatoes and Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies brings a unique depth of flavor that you won’t find in your typical tortilla soup. Plus, the addition of heavy cream creates a luxurious texture that makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug. It’s customizable, too! You can add any toppings you desire, making each bowl a unique experience.
The Full Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, with juices
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings (optional): tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, Tex-Mex cheese, etc.
Instructions
- In a soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the onions from sticking or burning.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, Rotel, chicken broth, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, corn, and black beans. Stir well and increase the heat to high.
- Once the soup boils, reduce the heat and simmer with the pot covered (lid slightly ajar) for 5 minutes. Tip: This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- While the soup simmers, prepare your desired toppings such as slicing avocado or shredding cheese.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cooked chicken. Let it warm through for 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: Taste the soup before serving to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the soup immediately and top with your favorite toppings for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This creamy chicken tortilla soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further. Consider adding crispy tortilla strips for a delightful crunch. Avocado slices bring a creamy freshness, while a dollop of sour cream adds tanginess. You can also sprinkle Tex-Mex cheese on top for extra flavor. For those who like it spicy, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Feel free to experiment with the toppings based on your preferences!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Is this soup spicy?
The spice level is mild to medium due to the Rotel tomatoes. If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add more chili powder or jalapeños to taste.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk, though this will change the texture slightly.
Enjoy a comforting bowl of this creamy chicken tortilla soup with your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Equipment
- Soup Pot For cooking the soup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 medium onion, chopped
- 28 ounce crushed tomatoes
- 10 ounce Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies with juices
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 tablespoon chili powder
- 12 ounce corn drained
- 14 ounce black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked chicken such as rotisserie chicken
- salt and pepper to taste
- toppings optional: tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, Tex-Mex cheese, etc.
Instructions
- In a soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the onions from sticking or burning.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, Rotel, chicken broth, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, corn, and black beans. Stir well and increase the heat to high.
- Once the soup boils, reduce the heat and simmer with the pot covered (lid slightly ajar) for 5 minutes. Tip: This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- While the soup simmers, prepare your desired toppings such as slicing avocado or shredding cheese.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cooked chicken. Let it warm through for 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: Taste the soup before serving to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the soup immediately and top with your favorite toppings for added flavor and texture.