Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Crispy tortilla strips; Chopped cilantro; Sour cream; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and rich dish that combines succulent chicken, savory spices, and a creamy base, topped with crispy tortilla strips.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-05T17:38:20.838Z

Indulge in this creamy, flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish is sure to please the whole family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
Bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients and spices
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Comforting Classic

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any time of year. The combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables creates a satisfying dish that warms both the body and spirit. The creamy texture adds a rich depth, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Whether it's chilly outside or you're simply in need of some cozy food, this soup hits the spot every time.

What sets this soup apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add some heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer a vegetarian version? Substitute the chicken with additional beans or vegetables. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for families and gatherings.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this soup delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The inclusion of black beans adds fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Plus, the corn and tomatoes contribute important vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish as nourishing as it is tasty.

Heavy cream adds a decadent touch, but you can opt for alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter version. This way, you can enjoy the creamy texture while catering to different dietary needs. The balance of ingredients ensures that you're not just indulging but also fueling your body with wholesome nutrients.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing you to prepare a big batch at the start of the week and enjoy it throughout. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in minutes.

Additionally, this soup freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze portions in airtight containers. On busy days, simply thaw and heat for a quick and comforting meal. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup will become a staple in your meal rotation, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

Crispy tortilla strips
Chopped cilantro
Sour cream
Avocado slices

Gather all your ingredients to make this delicious soup!

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from pot and let cool slightly, then shred the chicken.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken back to the pot along with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.

Add Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and heat through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, cilantro, sour cream, and avocado slices.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken tortilla soup!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, presentation matters! Consider using vibrant bowls to complement the colorful ingredients. Garnishing with crispy tortilla strips adds a delightful crunch, while avocado slices and cilantro provide freshness. A dollop of sour cream can also offer a creamy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor. These simple touches can elevate your soup from simple to spectacular, impressing family and friends alike.

For a complete meal, pair this soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. The combination of textures and flavors ensures a satisfying dining experience, whether for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones.

Tips for the Best Soup

To achieve the best flavor in your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider using homemade chicken broth if possible. It adds a depth of flavor that store-bought versions may lack. Alternatively, opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt level and allow the spices to shine through. This small change can significantly enhance the overall taste of your dish.

Another tip is to let the soup simmer longer for a richer flavor. While 15 minutes is sufficient, allowing it to simmer for 30 minutes can deepen the flavors and improve the texture. Just be sure to monitor the creaminess; if it thickens too much, add a splash of broth to maintain the desired consistency.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different proteins in this soup. Swap chicken for shredded beef or turkey for a different twist. For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or lentils in place of meat. You can also add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. This recipe is a fantastic base that allows for endless creativity in the kitchen.

If you're a fan of spice, consider topping your soup with sliced jalapeños or drizzling with a spicy chili oil. Alternatively, a sprinkle of cheese, such as queso fresco or shredded cheddar, can enhance the creaminess and add a savory flavor. Each variation can bring a new element to this comforting classic, making it a dish you'll love to make time and time again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this soup!

→ Is it possible to make this soup spicier?

Absolutely! Add more chili powder or a diced jalapeño for an extra kick.

→ Can this soup be frozen?

Yes, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.