Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight dinner.
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth, topped with crispy tortilla strips for the perfect texture.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich flavor that satisfies every craving
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
- Quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights
A Bowl of Comfort
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening. As the temperatures drop, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to lift your spirits and soothe your soul. The rich flavors of shredded chicken meld seamlessly with the creamy base, providing an inviting and satisfying experience with every spoonful.
This soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family's taste. Whether you prefer a mild flavor or want to amp up the heat with additional chili powder or jalapeños, this recipe allows for customization that makes it uniquely yours.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether it's a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family, this soup fits the bill. It's quick to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Serve it as a hearty main course or as a starter to kick off a festive meal.
With its vibrant colors and delicious toppings, this soup is as visually appealing as it is tasty. The crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro not only add texture but also elevate the presentation, making it a standout dish at any table.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
The ingredients in Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup provide a range of health benefits. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle health and repair. It also supports immune function, making this soup a great choice for those looking to maintain their well-being.
The use of fresh vegetables like onions and bell peppers adds vitamins and minerals to the dish. Onions are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants, contributing to your overall health while indulging in this delicious soup.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Stir in Cream
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to heat through without boiling, about 5 minutes.
Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy tortilla strips and chopped cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup!
Tips for Perfect Soup
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider using homemade chicken broth if you have the time. This adds depth and richness to the flavor profile that store-bought broth may lack. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken for added convenience and flavor.
When adding the heavy cream, do so gradually to ensure a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream, as this can cause it to separate and become less appealing.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious soup can be served with a variety of sides to enhance the meal. Consider pairing it with warm cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced dinner. For an extra kick, serve with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Don't forget to provide a selection of toppings for your guests to personalize their bowls. In addition to crispy tortilla strips and cilantro, consider options like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or lime wedges to add freshness and flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to heat through without boiling, about 5 minutes.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy tortilla strips and chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g