This flavorful and creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe is perfect for quick chicken recipes that bring warmth and comfort to your table. Loaded with tender shredded chicken, smoky spices, corn, black beans, and a rich creamy broth, it’s a cozy meal that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.
If looking for cozy meals that pair well with soups, check out our Chicken Caesar Wraps for a fresh and satisfying combo.
Why This Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Stands Out
This chicken tortillas soups recipe combines traditional tortilla soup flavors with a creamy twist that enhances the broth’s richness without overpowering the classic spicy and smoky notes. It’s a perfect warm-up meal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, with simple ingredients and a cooking time under an hour.
The blend of smoky paprika, cumin, chili powder, and fresh lime juices perfectly complements the creamy broth and hearty chicken, making it one of the best creamy chicken tortilla soup recipes out there.
Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and diced (optional for heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, with juices
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 (14-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (12-ounce) can corn, drained
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream or half-and-half
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded Mexican blend cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
How to Make This Easy Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeños (if using), and garlic. Cook until onions soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in crushed tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Spice it up: Add smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the flavors.
- Add beans, corn, and chicken: Mix in black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Bring soup to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes to marry flavors.
- Add cream and lime juice: Stir in heavy cream and fresh lime juice. Warm through but do not boil to avoid curdling.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, sour cream, and cilantro to taste.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Make it spicier: Add jalapeños seeds or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- For a lighter version: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or omit cream for a dairy-free tortilla soup.
- Use leftover chicken: This recipe is perfect for using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
- Freeze and reheat: Soup freezes well without cream added; add cream fresh when reheating.
Pairings and Meal Ideas
Chicken tortilla soup pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or light sandwiches. You can try it with our Easy Healthy Salad Recipes or enjoy alongside tacos for a Tex-Mex feast. For more cozy, hearty meals, explore our Cozy Meals Collection.
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Conclusion
This creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe offers a flavorful, cozy meal that’s simple to make and endlessly satisfying. Its blend of spices, creaminess, and fresh toppings make it a delightful twist on classic tortilla soup — perfect for quick weeknight dinners or relaxed gatherings.
