Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips for topping; Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup on chilly evenings. It combines the richness of chicken and cream with the vibrant flavors of spices and fresh veggies. I often find myself experimenting with extra toppings like avocado or crispy tortilla strips to bring in some crunch. Every spoonful is delightfully comforting, and I'm always excited to share it with friends and family. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use leftover chicken and create something soul-soothing in just under an hour.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:29:36.271Z

Creating this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup has become a joyful ritual in my kitchen. Every time I make it, I play around with spices, which really elevates the dish. It’s amazing how a pinch of cumin or a dash of chili powder can transform this soup from basic to extraordinary. I learned that stirring in the cream at the end prevents it from curdling, giving you a silky texture that wraps around the ingredients beautifully.

Recently, I invited some friends over to taste my newest version, and they couldn't get enough of the rich creaminess balanced with the crispy tortilla strips. They suggested adding more lime for a zesty kick, which I am excited to try next time. This experience reassured me that cooking is as much about personal connectivity as it is about flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul
A spicy kick that perfectly complements the richness
Customize with your favorite toppings for added texture and flavor

The Role of Cream in Soup

Heavy cream plays a crucial role in achieving the lush texture of this soup. It not only provides a rich, velvety mouthfeel but also balances the spiciness from the chili powder. When adding the cream, keep the heat low to prevent curdling. You want the soup to be warm and comforting, not boiling, which can cause the cream to separate. Stirring gently will help blend it into the broth seamlessly.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half or substituting some cream with a blend of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. While these alternatives will alter the creamy richness slightly, they still provide a delicious base for the soup. Remember, if you go for yogurt, add it off the heat to maintain a smooth consistency.

Choosing and Using Your Chicken

For exceptional flavor, use rotisserie chicken, which has a seasoned, tender texture that enhances the broth. If you're cooking chicken specifically for this recipe, poach it in lightly salted water with herbs for about 20-30 minutes until fully cooked and easy to shred. This method helps infuse moisture and flavor into the chicken, making it a perfect addition to your soup.

However, be mindful of using canned chicken as it may lack the depth of flavor you’re after. If you prefer a vegetarian option, feel free to replace the chicken with hearty beans like black beans or chickpeas, and enhance the soup with extra vegetables for a satisfying alternative.

Perfecting Your Toppings

The right toppings can elevate your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup to new heights. Crispy tortilla strips add not only a wonderful crunch but also a beautiful presentation. To make your own, cut corn tortillas into strips, toss them in oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden and crispy, approximately 10 minutes.

Don't hesitate to mix and match toppings based on what you have! Avocado slices add creaminess, while a sprinkle of queso fresco offers a salty bite. Fresh cilantro brightens the dish, and lime wedges bring a zesty finish that ties all the flavors together perfectly. Experiment with these to find your ideal combination!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a deliciously creamy and flavorful soup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips for topping
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepared for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the soup in no time!

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices and Broth

Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder, stirring well. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Incorporate Chicken and Corn

Once simmering, add the shredded chicken and corn to the pot. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to warm through, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for added flavor.

Your creamy chicken tortilla soup is ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste! If you want a little more heat, add some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring into an airtight container. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat on the stove, avoiding boiling to maintain the creamy texture. If it appears too thick after refrigeration, simply stir in a little chicken broth or water until you achieve your desired consistency.

For longer storage, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion. Label and date each portion; it can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it gently on the stove.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. To serve a larger group, simply double the ingredients, ensuring you keep cooking times consistent as broth temperature and stirring can affect simmering times. Monitor the soup closely; it may take a few extra minutes to meld flavors when the pot is fuller.

If cooking for one or two, you can halve the ingredients. This makes for excellent meal prep, as you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week without excessive waste. Just adjust your toppings to match your servings for a more personalized experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and will save you time in preparation.

→ Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to leave out the cream until you're ready to serve.