Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 carrot, diced; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortilla strips for garnish; Shredded cheese for garnish; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

When I first made this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, I was amazed at how quickly it came together while delivering such a rich flavor. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy broth creates a comforting dish that's perfect for any day of the week. I love topping it off with crispy tortilla strips and a sprinkle of cheese, which adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor to each spoonful. It's an easy recipe to whip up, especially when you need a hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:45:35.904Z

Making this soup has become a comforting routine for me, especially on chilly evenings. I remember the first time I experimented with different spices, and I was thrilled with the balance of cumin and chili powder. Adding a splash of lime juice at the end brightens everything up, making it even more irresistible!

One detail I learned early on is to actually sauté the vegetables before adding the broth. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the soup a deeper, more satisfying taste. Each bowl is a delicious reminder of why I love cooking!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
Perfect blend of spices that makes every bite flavorful
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

Unlocking Layered Flavors

To elevate the flavor profile of your Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider sautéing the vegetables until they’re slightly caramelized, which enhances their sweetness and depth. This can take an additional 2-3 minutes on medium heat. The onion should become translucent, while the bell pepper gains a vibrant color, signaling that it’s ready to absorb the chicken broth's savory notes.

Don’t underestimate the impact of the spices! Toasting the ground cumin and chili powder in the pot after sautéing but before adding liquids allows these spices to release essential oils, making the soup's base even more aromatic. Just 30 seconds on medium heat can transform the spices, enriching the overall taste of the soup.

Creamy Consistency Tips

When incorporating the heavy cream, ensure it's at room temperature to prevent curdling. If you forget to take it out of the fridge, simply warm it gently in a separate pot before mixing it into the broth. This precaution will help achieve a silky consistency that blends seamlessly into the soup without lumps.

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just be mindful that coconut cream will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which can be delightful if you enjoy experimenting with different tastes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting the cooking process:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 carrot, diced
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Corn tortilla strips for garnish
Shredded cheese for garnish
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Make sure you have your garnishes ready to elevate the presentation of your soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add Chicken and Spices

Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, ground cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Stir in Cream

Pour in the heavy cream, stir well, and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Enjoy your creamy chicken tortilla soup with your favorite side or simply on its own!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken and adjust the spices based on your heat preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup is ideal for meal prepping, as it stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup without the cream. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then heat it through and stir in the cream when serving for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup with a variety of toppings can enhance the dish’s texture and flavor. Alongside crispy tortilla strips, consider adding avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or thinly sliced jalapeños for extra heat. These toppings not only add visual appeal but also create a satisfying contrast to the creamy base.

For a complete meal, pair this soup with a fresh side salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. You can also serve it with a side of beans or grilled corn for added substance and nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a low-fat cream alternative.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but it's best to add the heavy cream after thawing for best texture.