Bowl of creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup garnished with tortilla strips and herbs

why make this recipe

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and delicious dish that warms you from the inside out. It combines savory chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty flavors, making it perfect for chilly evenings. This soup is quick to prepare and is sure to please the whole family, whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

how to make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
8 oz cream cheese
4 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can corn, drained
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Tortilla chips, for serving
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
Add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, chicken broth, and taco seasoning to the pot.
Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10-15 minutes.
Stir in the cream cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Serve hot with tortilla chips and garnish with fresh cilantro.

how to serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in bowls, topped with crushed tortilla chips for a nice crunch. You can also add extra cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, or diced avocado on top for added flavor and texture.

how to store Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat until hot. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time.
Adjust the taco seasoning to your taste; add more for a spicier kick.
If you like extra veggies, throw in some bell peppers or zucchini when sautéing the onion and garlic.
For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheese.

variation

For a twist, try adding lime juice for a citrusy flavor or swapping the chicken for shredded beef or turkey. You can also use different beans, like pinto beans or kidney beans, based on your preference.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this soup a day in advance. The flavors will deepen as it sits! Just reheat before serving.

How spicy is this soup?
The soup is mild, but you can make it spicier by adding more taco seasoning or some diced jalapeños.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, if you use fresh chicken, you will need to cook it first. You can sauté it in the pot before adding the other ingredients.