Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges; Sliced avocado; Shredded cheese

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, especially on chilly evenings. The combination of tender chicken, velvety broth, and zesty toppings creates a flavor explosion that warms the soul. I appreciate how quick it comes together, allowing me to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Each spoonful is comfort food at its finest, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:21:36.270Z

When I first tried making Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, I was amazed at how flavorful the result was despite minimal effort. The secret lies in using a well-seasoned broth combined with cream to enrich the flavor profile. I also learned that the toppings make a huge difference; fresh cilantro, crispy tortilla strips, and a squeeze of lime elevate the dish remarkably.

One thing I recommend is to let the soup simmer just long enough for the chicken to absorb the flavors before shredding it. This method ensures every bite is juicy and packed with taste. Don't skip the avocado; its creamy texture balances the soup perfectly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that comforts on cold days
Bursting with flavor from fresh ingredients and spices
Customizable with your favorite toppings for a personal touch

Perfecting the Broth

To achieve a flavorful broth, use a high-quality chicken broth as your base. Homemade broth can enhance the soup’s depth, and if you're short on time, a good store-bought version works well. Ensure to taste the broth after you add the spices; adjusting the seasoning at this stage can make a significant difference. Adding a splash of lime juice before serving will also brighten the flavors.

When combining the ingredients, slow and low is the way to go. Start with medium heat to avoid burning the aromatics. Keep an eye on the soup as it simmers; you want the vegetables to soften without becoming mushy, which usually takes around 15 minutes. The visual cue is the gentle bubbling on the surface.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the joys of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is its adaptability. If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a reduced-fat cream alternative. Both will still give you a creamy texture while lightening up the dish without sacrificing flavor.

Feel free to elevate the toppings based on what you have on hand. Adding diced jalapeños can introduce a delightful kick, or you might opt for pickled red onions for a tangy contrast. Changing up the cheese—maybe using a sharp cheddar or a crumbly queso fresco—can also alter the soup's flavor profile beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings

Tortilla strips
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
Sliced avocado
Shredded cheese

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, cumin, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and then reduce to a simmer.

Add Cream and Season

Once the soup has simmered for about 15 minutes, pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, and shredded cheese as desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in spices before cooking, or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce if you like heat.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the soup even tastier on the second day. However, if your soup includes the cream, it's best to add it fresh when reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

To reheat, use a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often to ensure even warming. If the soup thickens too much while it sits in the fridge, simply add a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the soup with a side of warm cornbread or a crisp green salad. This balances the richness of the soup and provides an extra layer of comfort. I also enjoy offering a few different toppings in small bowls so that everyone can customize their own bowl—making the meal feel interactive and festive.

If you're planning a more festive gathering or a family dinner, consider serving the soup alongside a spread of Mexican-inspired appetizers like nachos or quesadillas. This not only complements the soup's flavors but also provides a fun, shared experience around the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Simply reheat it on the stove and add cream just before serving.

→ Is it possible to freeze this soup?

Absolutely! You can freeze the soup without the cream. Once it’s cooled, transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat, then add the cream right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option, but the flavor will differ slightly.

→ Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.