Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6

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Introduction

There are few meals as comforting, satisfying, and universally loved as a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup. This classic-inspired soup takes everything people love about traditional chicken tortilla soup—bold spices, tender chicken, hearty beans, and corn—and elevates it with a rich, velvety texture thanks to melted cheddar cheese and cream cheese. The result is a soup that feels indulgent yet approachable, cozy yet vibrant, and simple enough for weeknights while still special enough to serve guests.

What truly sets this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup apart is how effortlessly it comes together. With minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and flexible cooking options, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into busy lifestyles. Whether you simmer it gently on the stovetop after a long day or let it cook slowly while you tackle other tasks, this soup delivers deep flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is also incredibly adaptable. Use fresh chicken breasts, leftover cooked chicken, or store-bought rotisserie chicken—each option works beautifully. You can adjust the spice level, swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, or customize toppings to please everyone at the table. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, yet pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crusty bread, cornbread, or a crisp green salad.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and reliably delicious, this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup isn’t just another chicken soup recipe—it’s one you’ll come back to again and again. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Rich, Creamy Texture Without Being Heavy

Thanks to a combination of shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese, this soup achieves a smooth, luxurious texture without relying on excessive cream. The dairy melts seamlessly into the broth, creating a creamy base that still allows the bold flavors to shine.

2. Easy, Weeknight-Friendly Recipe

From start to finish, this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is ready in under an hour. Most of the time is hands-off simmering, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something homemade but low effort.

3. Flexible and Forgiving

This soup works with fresh chicken, leftover chicken, or rotisserie chicken. You can adjust seasonings, swap beans, or add extra vegetables without compromising the final result.

4. Bold Flavor With Customizable Heat

Warm spices like cumin, taco seasoning, jalapeño, and Rotel tomatoes give the soup its signature flavor. You control the spice level, making it family-friendly or fiery depending on your preference.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep lunches or make-ahead dinners.

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Ingredients + Tips

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup plays a specific role in building flavor, texture, and balance. Here’s a closer look, along with helpful tips for success.

Butter

Butter adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics. You can substitute olive oil if needed, but butter contributes a deeper flavor.

Yellow Onion

A small yellow onion provides a mild, slightly sweet base. Dice it finely so it melts into the soup as it cooks.

Jalapeño Pepper

Jalapeño adds warmth without overwhelming heat. For a milder soup, remove the seeds and membranes. For more spice, leave them in or add an extra pepper.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is essential for depth and aroma. Mince it finely to avoid large chunks.

Tomato Paste

Tomato paste adds concentrated flavor and helps thicken the broth slightly. Cooking it briefly before adding liquids removes any raw taste.

Corn

Corn adds sweetness and texture. Canned corn is convenient, but frozen or fresh corn works just as well.

Rotel Diced Tomatoes With Green Chilies

This ingredient provides acidity, moisture, and mild heat. If unavailable, substitute diced tomatoes and a small can of green chilies.

Black Beans

Black beans make the soup heartier and more filling. Rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

Chicken Broth

Use a good-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Low-sodium broth allows better control over seasoning.

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and shred easily. Cooked shredded chicken is a great shortcut option.

Spices

Cumin, cayenne, taco seasoning, and hot sauce work together to create bold, layered flavor. Adjust amounts to suit your taste.

Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar adds richness and tang. Shred it yourself for smoother melting.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese creates the signature creamy texture. Let it soften before adding to ensure it melts smoothly.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and jalapeño and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds. Add the corn, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, chicken, cayenne pepper, cumin, hot sauce, and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and cook for 20–25 minutes, avoiding a rolling boil to keep the chicken tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return them to the pot.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Elements

Reduce the heat to low. Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar and softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Taste the soup and add more taco seasoning or salt if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortillas.

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Slow Cooker Instructions (Optional)

To make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup in a slow cooker:

1. Add all ingredients except the cheddar cheese and cream cheese to the slow cooker.

2. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

3. Shred the chicken, return it to the slow cooker, and stir in the cheeses during the last 20 minutes.

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Variations and Customizations

Make It Spicier

Add extra jalapeño, more hot sauce, or a pinch of chili powder.

Make It Milder

Use mild Rotel tomatoes and skip the cayenne pepper.

Add More Vegetables

Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are great additions.

Dairy-Free Option

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and omit the cream cheese.

Low-Carb Version

Reduce beans and corn, and add extra chicken and vegetables.

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Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze without toppings for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth if needed.

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Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup pairs beautifully with:

• Warm crusty bread

• Cornbread or biscuits

• A simple green salad

• Rice or tortilla chips

It’s also perfect as a standalone meal thanks to its hearty ingredients.

Print

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 420–450

• Protein: 28–32g

• Carbohydrates: 28–32g

• Fat: 22–25g

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Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup remains a beloved comfort food across so many kitchens—it delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every spoonful. This version strikes the perfect balance between rich and hearty, creamy and bold, making it a reliable recipe you’ll want to keep close.

What makes this soup truly special is its versatility. It adapts effortlessly to your schedule, your pantry, and your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight, meal-prepping for the week ahead, or serving friends on a chilly evening, this soup rises to the occasion every time. It’s the kind of recipe that feels familiar yet exciting, comforting yet flavorful.

The creamy texture adds an indulgent touch without overwhelming the classic tortilla soup flavors. Tender chicken, savory beans, sweet corn, and warm spices come together in a way that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Each bite offers depth, balance, and comfort—exactly what a great soup should deliver.