Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect blend of rich, bold flavors and cozy comfort in a bowl. It’s everything you love about classic tortilla soup—tender chicken, vibrant spices, sweet corn, and crunchy tortilla strips—taken to the next level with a creamy, velvety base. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to warm you up on a chilly day, this soup delivers both flavor and comfort. Quick to prepare and packed with southwestern-inspired ingredients, this creamy version of tortilla soup hits all the right notes: smoky, spicy, and irresistibly creamy. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

What Makes This Soup Special?

What sets this soup apart is its luxurious creamy texture, achieved without making it too heavy. The balance of shredded chicken, spices, veggies, and just the right amount of creaminess creates a layered, flavorful bite every time. The crunchy tortilla strips on top add the perfect contrast, making it hearty, satisfying, and fun to eat.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
½ cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh lime juice (optional)
Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips, for topping
Shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the Base Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, shredded chicken, Rotel, black beans, and corn. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

3. Stir in Creamy Elements

Lower the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it melts and blends into the soup. Then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to create a creamy, smooth texture. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

4. Simmer and Serve

Let the soup simmer for another 5–10 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

5. Garnish and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crunchy tortilla strips. Add optional garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne for heat.
Low-Carb: Skip the beans and corn for a keto-friendly twist.
Extra Hearty: Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for added bulk.
Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Ladle
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: ~320
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 20g
Protein: 22g
Sugar: 4g

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second intervals.

My Cooking Experience

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of my go-to recipes when I want something comforting with a bit of spice. It’s quick to throw together, and everyone always goes back for seconds. The creamy broth paired with the crisp tortilla strips is simply irresistible. I love how adaptable this soup is—you can switch up the toppings or spice level based on your mood or what’s in your fridge.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the kind of meal that makes you feel warm and cozy from the inside out. With bold flavors, a creamy texture, and just the right amount of heat, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a bowl of comfort that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

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