Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and rich dish that combines tender chicken, a blend of spices, and a creamy base, topped with crispy tortilla strips for an added crunch.
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a family favorite, perfect for cold nights and gatherings. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a delightful meal that warms the soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy flavor that's irresistible
- Loaded with tender chicken and fresh vegetables
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly or you're in need of a hearty meal, this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the answer. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a velvety cream base makes it a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Each spoonful delivers a rich flavor that is both satisfying and nourishing, perfect for any day of the week.
Not only does this soup provide comfort, but it also delivers a well-balanced meal. With the addition of vegetables like onions and bell peppers, you’re not just indulging in a delicious dish; you’re also nourishing your body with essential nutrients. This makes it an excellent choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Meal Prep Friendly
One of the best features of this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is how easy it is to prepare in advance. You can make a big batch on the weekend and store it in the fridge or freezer for busy weekdays. This means that a warm, delicious meal is just a quick reheat away, saving you time and effort during the week.
Simply portion out the soup into airtight containers and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy it, just thaw and heat it on the stove or in the microwave. You can also add fresh toppings like cilantro and tortilla strips just before serving, ensuring that every bowl is as delicious as if it were just made.
Customizable for Everyone
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your family's tastes. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add jalapeños or hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, while still maintaining that creamy texture.
Additionally, you can mix in your favorite vegetables or grains to make this soup your own. Corn, zucchini, or even quinoa can be great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition. This flexibility ensures that everyone at the table can enjoy a bowl of this delightful soup, no matter their dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to prepare your soup:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 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
- Corn tortilla strips for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your creamy chicken tortilla soup:
Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes.
Add the Main Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the Cream
Slowly stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to heat through for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve the Soup
Serve hot, garnished with crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken tortilla soup!
Tips for the Best Soup
To enhance the flavors of your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider sautéing the spices briefly in the olive oil before adding the other ingredients. This technique helps to release the essential oils in the spices, intensifying their flavors and giving the soup a deeper taste.
Using high-quality chicken broth is crucial for a rich flavor. If possible, opt for homemade broth or a low-sodium option to control the salt levels better. This simple choice can significantly elevate the overall taste of your soup.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve this soup with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad. These sides not only complement the soup beautifully but also provide a balanced dining experience. You can also offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or sour cream to elevate your soup even further.
Pairing this dish with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage can enhance the dining experience. A simple lemonade or iced tea can be perfect for cutting through the creaminess of the soup while refreshing your palate.
Storage and Reheating
When it comes to storing your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s best to keep the tortilla strips separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents them from becoming soggy and losing their crunch. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.
To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens too much upon reheating, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and saves time!
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup spicy?
It has a mild spice level, but you can adjust the chili powder to your taste.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the cream until you're ready to reheat.
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and rich dish that combines tender chicken, a blend of spices, and a creamy base, topped with crispy tortilla strips for an added crunch.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Nourishing Comfort Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 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
- Corn tortilla strips for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes.
Add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
Slowly stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to heat through for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g