Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and crispy tortilla strips for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Packed with flavor from fresh ingredients
- Easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights
A Perfect Comfort Food
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that warms you from the inside out. The rich, velvety texture of the soup combined with the crunchy tortilla strips creates a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and comforting. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or simply when you crave something hearty and delicious.
As the soup simmers, the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and creamy goodness makes this soup irresistible. It's a dish that promises to bring smiles and contentment, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family's tastes or dietary preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for more beans or sautéed vegetables, maintaining the rich flavors with vegetable broth and cream.
Additionally, you can experiment with toppings. While crispy tortilla strips are traditional, feel free to get creative with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. This soup can evolve with your culinary creativity, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners. To keep the tortilla strips crispy, store them separately and add them just before serving.
If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so without the heavy cream. Prepare the soup base, cool it completely, and then freeze in airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw and reheat the soup, adding the cream at the end to maintain its creamy texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Tortilla strips for topping
Gather all your ingredients to make the cooking process easier.
Instructions
Prepare the Soup Base
In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Add Chicken and Cream
Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!
Nutritional Benefits
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and recovery. The addition of black beans and corn contributes fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you feeling full longer.
Moreover, the tomatoes and cilantro bring a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants to the table. This balanced soup can be a part of a healthy diet while still satisfying your cravings for comfort food.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider pairing this soup with a fresh side salad or crusty bread. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the creaminess of the soup beautifully, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Additionally, this soup can be served as a starter for a Mexican-themed dinner. Follow it up with enchiladas or tacos for a festive feast that your guests will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a depth of flavor to your soup. Just shred the chicken and add it in when instructed.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative to maintain that creamy texture without the extra calories.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. Just add the tortilla strips right before serving to keep them crispy.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
→ Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and ensure your chicken broth is dairy-free.
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Tortilla strips for topping
How-To Steps
In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 26g