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Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup – A Rich, Comforting, Protein-Packed Soup with Bold Mexican-Inspired Flavors

Few soups are as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken, aromatic spices, a lightly creamy broth, and classic tortilla toppings to create a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or whenever you crave something hearty and flavorful. What makes this soup truly special is its balance. The broth is creamy without being heavy, rich without overpowering the fresh ingredients. Spices like cumin and chili powder add warmth and depth, while tomatoes and broth keep everything bright and savory. Chicken provides satisfying lean protein, making this soup filling enough to serve as a complete meal on its own. This recipe is also incredibly practical. It’s made in one pot, uses simple ingredients, and can be adapted easily based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, preparing meals ahead of time, or feeding a crowd, this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup fits seamlessly into real life. It stores well, reheats beautifully, and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. If you’re looking for a soup that combines comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor in every spoonful, this is the recipe for you. Creamy, cozy, and deeply satisfying, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
Vegetables
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
Protein
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
Liquids
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For Serving
  • Baked tortilla strips
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Lime wedges
  • These ingredients come together to create a creamy savory, and perfectly spiced chicken soup.

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or ladle

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
  1. Stir in bell pepper and corn.
  2. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 3: Bloom the Spices
  1. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Stir for 30 seconds to release the aroma and deepen the flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
  1. Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
  2. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add Chicken
  1. Add shredded chicken to the pot.
  2. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
Step 6: Make It Creamy
  1. Reduce heat to low.
  2. Slowly stir in the heavy cream.
  3. Simmer gently for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste the soup and adjust salt or spices as needed.
Step 8: Serve
  1. Ladle into bowls.
  2. Top with baked tortilla strips and fresh herbs.
  3. Serve with lime wedges for brightness.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Soup thickens slightly as it sits.
Freezer
Freeze without tortilla toppings for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
Stir well to maintain creamy texture.
🥄 Variations
Extra Creamy Soup
Add an additional ¼ cup cream.
Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Add chili flakes or extra chili powder.
Veggie-Loaded Version
Add zucchini or black beans.
Lighter Version
Replace half the cream with extra broth.
Slow Cooker Option
Simmer on LOW for 4–5 hours before adding cream.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it works perfectly and saves time.
2. Is this soup very spicy?
No, it’s mildly spiced — adjust to taste.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream or dairy-free cream.
4. Does this soup freeze well?
Yes, freeze without toppings.
5. Can kids eat this soup?
Yes, it’s mild and family-friendly.
6. Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, simmer longer until fully cooked.
7. Why add cream at the end?
It prevents curdling and keeps texture smooth.
8. Can I make it thicker?
Simmer longer or add more cream.
9. What tortillas work best?
Corn tortillas baked until crisp.
10. Is this soup filling?
Yes, protein and cream make it very satisfying.
🏁 Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and bold flavor. With its rich, velvety broth, tender chicken, and warming spices, it delivers everything you want in a cozy homemade meal. Easy to prepare, adaptable, and deeply satisfying, this soup fits effortlessly into busy schedules while still feeling special. Whether served for dinner, meal prep, or a comforting lunch, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to whenever you need something warm, creamy, and delicious.