This creamy chicken tortilla soup offers the perfect combination of rich, velvety broth and tender chicken, topped with crispy tortilla chips. The addition of fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream enhances the flavor, adding a vibrant touch to the dish.
Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, this soup is an absolute crowd-pleaser. The balance of creamy texture with crunchy tortilla chips creates an irresistible contrast, and it’s an easy recipe that can be whipped up in no time. Pair it with a side of cornbread for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, crushed (for garnish)
- Shredded cheese (optional for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the cumin and chili powder, stirring to coat the onions and garlic. Cook for another minute to release the spices’ aroma.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the cooked, shredded chicken and frozen corn. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cilantro, allowing the soup to heat through for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup in bowls, garnished with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Comforting Mexican Classic
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a beloved Mexican dish that combines comforting chicken broth, tender shredded chicken, and a rich, creamy texture that makes it both filling and satisfying. This dish is a perfect blend of hearty flavors and textures, making it a go-to comfort food for cold evenings, family gatherings, or cozy weeknights. The addition of crispy tortilla strips and fresh toppings like cilantro, sour cream, and cheese elevates the flavors and provides a delightful contrast in textures.
The Origins of Chicken Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup, also known as sopa de tortilla in Spanish, has deep roots in Mexican cuisine. While its exact origins are debated, it is widely believed to have originated from central and southern Mexico. The dish was initially created as a way to use up stale tortillas. These tortillas were cut into strips and fried to create a crunchy topping that would be added to a broth-based soup.
Traditional tortilla soup recipes often include tomatoes, chilies, and a variety of herbs and spices, all simmered together to create a flavorful broth. Over time, as Mexican cuisine spread throughout the world, the recipe evolved, and many regional variations emerged. One of the most popular modern adaptations is Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, which adds a velvety texture by incorporating cream and other dairy products, making it even more comforting and indulgent.
Flavor Profile of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
The flavors of creamy chicken tortilla soup are a delightful balance of rich, savory, and slightly spicy elements. The chicken provides a savory base, while the creamy texture of the soup adds a luscious, smooth mouthfeel that’s comforting and satisfying. The spices, typically cumin and chili powder, give the soup a warm, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and crunchy tortilla strips.
When making creamy chicken tortilla soup, the key is to create a flavorful broth. The combination of chicken broth, tomatoes, and green chilies provides a savory foundation that is enhanced with the cream. The richness of the cream balances the spices, making the soup feel luxurious without overwhelming the palate. Toppings like crispy tortilla strips, cheese, and sour cream not only add flavor but also introduce texture and contrast, making each bite a little different from the last.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Making a perfect creamy chicken tortilla soup is easier than it might seem. Here are a few tips to help you get it just right:
- Use Homemade Chicken Broth: While store-bought chicken broth is convenient, homemade broth adds more depth of flavor to your soup. If you have the time, simmer some chicken bones with vegetables and herbs for a few hours. The homemade broth will make a noticeable difference in the richness of the soup.
- Shred the Chicken Yourself: While using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, shredding your own chicken allows you to control the texture and flavor. Poaching chicken breasts or thighs in the soup’s base allows the chicken to absorb the broth’s flavor, making it even more delicious.
- Balance the Spice: Chili powder and cumin are the go-to spices for this soup, but be careful with the amount. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the chili powder. On the other hand, if you like a little more heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Make it Creamy Without Overdoing It: The cream is what gives this soup its signature smooth and velvety texture. However, it’s important to add it slowly, tasting as you go. You can also use half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream if you prefer a lighter version.
- Customize the Toppings: The beauty of creamy chicken tortilla soup is that you can easily adjust the toppings to your liking. Some people love adding fresh avocado, while others enjoy a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a spoonful of guacamole. For extra crunch, try using fried tortilla strips or crumbled tortilla chips.
- Leftovers Taste Even Better: Like many soups and stews, creamy chicken tortilla soup tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy a comforting meal anytime you need a quick dinner.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
While the classic creamy chicken tortilla soup is already a crowd-pleaser, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Make It Spicy: Add some heat to the soup by stirring in diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also use spicy chili powder or hot sauce to amp up the spice level.
- Make It Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. These alternatives will still give the soup a creamy texture while keeping it light and vegan-friendly.
- Add Vegetables: If you’re looking to make the soup even heartier, try adding vegetables like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers. These will add extra nutrition and flavor to the dish.
- Go Vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian version of this soup, simply substitute the chicken with beans, such as black beans or pinto beans. You can also add some roasted sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor.
- Top with More Crunch: Aside from tortilla strips, you can also use crispy fried onions, roasted chickpeas, or even crumbled corn tostadas for a crunchy topping that complements the creamy soup.
Why Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a Must-Try
There’s something incredibly comforting about creamy chicken tortilla soup. It’s the type of dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor, making it perfect for all seasons. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a dinner party, creamy chicken tortilla soup is a versatile and easy option. Its balanced flavors, rich texture, and endless customization possibilities make it a recipe that will continue to stand the test of time in kitchens around the world.
In addition to being delicious, this soup is also a great way to feed a crowd. It’s easily scalable and can be made in large batches. Plus, with the variety of toppings and customization options, everyone can tailor their bowl to their liking. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, creamy or light, this soup is a winner for all types of eaters.
Conclusion:
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile, satisfying, and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. With its rich, velvety broth and deliciously tender chicken, it’s the perfect comfort food to serve on chilly nights. The variety of toppings and spice options allow for plenty of room for customization, making it a dish you can adapt to your own preferences.
Whether you make it with a homemade broth or opt for a quicker version, creamy chicken tortilla soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So next time you’re craving something cozy, grab a bowl of this creamy, flavorful soup it’s guaranteed to warm both your body and your soul.