Introduction
There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup. Perfect for cozy nights in or to impress guests, this dish bursts with flavors and textures that will surely leave everyone coming back for seconds. With a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and the richness of heavy cream, this soup is both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Avocado and fresh cilantro for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, bell peppers, and carrots; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, and stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and cooked shredded chicken.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
- For extra creaminess, use half-and-half in place of some of the heavy cream.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and freezes well.
- Top with cheese or jalapeños for additional flavor.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the best flavor in your creamy chicken tortilla soup, sautéing the vegetables until they are perfectly tender is key. Don’t rush this step; allowing time for these ingredients to soften enhances their sweetness and deepens the overall taste of the soup.
FAQ
- Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, replace the chicken with beans or extra vegetables, and use vegetable broth.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! It’s a great time saver and adds wonderful flavor.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. As you prepare this comforting recipe, let the flavors meld together, and enjoy every comforting spoonful. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to become a beloved favorite!