Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Family Favorite
When the chill of evening sets in and your family gathers around the dinner table, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup to bring comfort. This delightful recipe combines tender shredded chicken with vibrant flavors and creamy richness, making it the perfect meal for any night of the week. Just imagine a hearty soup that not only warms your soul but also fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into this easy, family-friendly dish that will become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
One of the greatest things about Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is its versatility. Whether you’re whipping it up during the week or serving it on the weekend, this soup will please even the pickiest of eaters. Chicken tortilla soup is typically filled with ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, making it a convenient option. The combination of chicken, beans, and corn not only makes for a balanced meal but also packs in plenty of protein and fiber.
Additionally, this flavorful recipe includes just the right amount of spice without overwhelming the palate, making it kid-friendly yet satisfying for adults as well. Serve it with crunchy tortilla strips and fresh garnishes, and watch your family’s faces light up with joy as they take their first bite. Ready to make your own? Let’s gather our ingredients!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup black beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a large pot over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add in the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, chicken broth, corn, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer the soup for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream, ensuring everything is well-mixed. Heat through until the chicken is warmed and the soup reaches a comforting temperature.
Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, and a wedge of lime for that extra zing.
Tips for Your Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
To elevate your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider trying a few of these tips:
Substitute Different Proteins: Although shredded chicken gives the soup a homey touch, you can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time, or even shredded turkey if you have it on hand.
Add Extra Veggies: Consider sneaking in more vegetables to enhance the nutrition factor. Chopped bell peppers or zucchini can blend well with the flavors of this soup.
Change the Heat Level: If your family enjoys a bit of heat, feel free to add jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to spice things up.
Make it Your Own: Personalize the recipe by adding toppings like sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream for a more indulgent experience.
For more delicious family meals, be sure to check out our other comforting recipes on Cekerecipes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Chicken Tortilla Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat and add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! To lighten up your soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk. You can also replace some of the chicken broth with additional diced tomatoes for a fresher taste while reducing calories.
What can I serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh cornbread, homemade quesadillas, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. The key is to keep sides light to complement the creamy richness of the soup.
Can I freeze the Soup?
Yes! You can freeze Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream or broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Conclusion
In just a few easy steps, you can create a hearty, comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup that’s perfect for a family dinner. Its blend of flavors and creamy texture makes it a delightful choice for any occasion. So gather your loved ones, serve this delicious soup, and enjoy the warmth it brings. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as our family does! For more cozy, family-friendly meal ideas, explore more delicious recipes with us and let your kitchen shine!
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Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
A warm and comforting bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup filled with tender chicken, beans, corn, and vibrant flavors.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup black beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a large pot over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add in the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, chicken broth, corn, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer the soup for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream, ensuring everything is well-mixed. Heat through until the chicken is warmed and the soup reaches a comforting temperature.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, and a wedge of lime for that extra zing.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
