Warm, creamy, and full of bright flavors, this soup is a quick weeknight winner.

introduction

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is easy to make and tastes like a warm hug. It uses cooked chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and cream cheese to make a rich broth. For another easy chicken dinner idea that uses simple pantry items, see easy chicken pot pie recipe.

why make this recipe

It comes together fast and fills the house with good smells.
The soup is creamy and hearty, but still light on effort.
Kids and adults both like it.
You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.

how to make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Make the soup in one pot on the stove. First cook the onions and peppers, then add broth, beans, corn, and tomatoes. Stir in the chicken, then melt the cream cheese and cheddar for creaminess. This method is simple and forgiving. If you like very simple soups, you might also enjoy the 3-ingredient butternut squash soup for a different quick option.

Ingredients :

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped bell peppers
2 cloves garlic (minced)
4 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 can corn (15 oz)
1 can black beans (15 oz, rinsed and drained)
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
8 oz cream cheese
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips (for garnish)
Avocado (for garnish)
Cilantro (for garnish)

Directions :

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until soft.
Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and taco seasoning; bring to a simmer.
Stir in the shredded chicken and cream cheese, cooking until the cream cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Mix in the cheddar cheese until melted; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado, and cilantro.

how to serve Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ladle into bowls and top with tortilla strips, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
Add a squeeze of lime for bright flavor.
Serve with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread.
Offer shredded cheese, sour cream, or hot sauce for people to add.

how to store Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

In the fridge: cool the soup, then put it in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
In the freezer: freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Leave room at the top for expansion.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat so the cream cheese does not separate. Stir often.
Do not add crunchy tortilla strips before storing; add them when you serve.

tips to make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Warm the cream cheese a bit before stirring in to help it melt smoothly.
Taste and add salt last, since broth can be salty.
For extra depth, add a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika.
If you want a smoother soup, mash some beans or blend a cup, then stir back in.

variation (if any)

Make it spicy: add jalapeños or chipotle in adobo.
Use different cheese: pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a milder melt.
Swap chicken for shredded turkey or cooked ground turkey.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients except cheeses. Cook on low 4–6 hours. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar near the end until melted.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes. Use about 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes and add a little more broth if needed.

Q: Will the cream cheese separate when I reheat the soup?
A: Reheat slowly over low heat and stir often. This helps keep the soup creamy.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use vegetable broth, skip the chicken, and add extra beans or tofu for protein. Use a plant-based cream cheese if you want dairy-free.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup brings comfort and bold flavors with little work. For another take on this cozy dish, check this version from Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup – The Cozy Cook, and for more creamy soup ideas, see Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup • Salt & Lavender.