Here’s a comforting and flavorful creamy chicken tortilla soup that will warm your soul. With its rich and creamy texture, this soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something hearty. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the crunch of tortilla strips creates a delicious harmony that will have you coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortilla strips for garnish
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional information is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
2. Add the diced green bell pepper and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken, corn, and diced tomatoes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to heat through.
8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips and fresh cilantro.
10. Enjoy your creamy chicken tortilla soup with your favorite toppings!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option or use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy chicken tortilla soup pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with avocado slices and extra tortilla strips for added crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be aware that the cream may change texture upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it builds flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
- Adjust the spice level gradually; you can always add more.
- Using low-quality broth can affect the soup’s flavor.
- Don’t add cream too early, as it can curdle if boiled.
- Make sure to taste as you go to balance flavors.
- Store leftovers properly to avoid spoilage.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
- Fresh lime juice adds a nice brightness.
- Experiment with different toppings like cheese or sour cream.
- For a thicker soup, blend part of it before adding cream.
- Make it ahead of time; flavors deepen overnight.
FAQs
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can use turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the ingredient you choose.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, simply add all ingredients (except cream) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add cream before serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while it simmers for a kick of heat.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made in advance for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I use frozen chicken?
You can, but cook it thoroughly before shredding. It may require longer cooking time in the soup.
How do I thicken the soup?
You can blend part of the soup or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired thickness.
What toppings go well with this soup?
Toppings like avocado, cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro enhance the flavors and add texture.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken tortilla soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Its rich, savory flavors combined with the crunch of tortilla strips make it a delightful dish that everyone will love. Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends, and savor every comforting spoonful!
Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the diced green bell pepper and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, corn, and diced tomatoes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips and fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy your creamy chicken tortilla soup!
