Short, Catchy Intro

So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh Same. This Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is the kind of dinner that looks like you tried hard and tastes like you won at life with minimal effort. Want even more variations and nerdy recipe backups in case you feel adventurous later Check out this alternative take for inspiration a different creamy twist on the same idea

This soup plays nice with busy weeknights, snacky weekends, and any time you want to impress someone without sweating. Ready to make your kitchen smell like a fiesta and your couch warm like a hug

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Because it is stupidly good and shockingly simple. Seriously this recipe is pretty much idiot proof even I did not mess it up the first time. It comes together fast, uses pantry-friendly cans, and lets a rotisserie chicken do most of the heavy lifting.

It is comfort food with a personality check Salsa vibes creamy vibes crunchy vibes all in one bowl. The heavy cream adds that velvety mouthfeel that makes every spoonful feel like a small celebration. Also toppings are where you win friends and influence people so pile on the avocado if you are feeling generous.

If you want a slightly different base or want to compare method notes you can peek at this other version that breaks things down a tad differently a classic creamy chicken tortilla soup writeup

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil because your pan deserves a little polish
1 1/2 medium onion chopped yes that is half an onion plus a little more for drama
1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes trust the can it does the work
1 10 ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies with juices hello mild kick
1 cup chicken broth keep it cozy and savory
1 teaspoon garlic powder do not skip the garlic vibes
1 teaspoon smoked paprika for that smoky hint that says chef but not too much
1 1/2 tablespoon chili powder a little heat friendly and forgiving
1 12 ounce can corn drained sweet little pops of joy
1 14 ounce can black beans drained and rinsed protein and texture team players
2 cups cooked chicken rotisserie chicken recommended because life is short
1 cup heavy whipping cream the secret to silky success
Salt and pepper to taste because nuances matter
Tortilla strips for crunch and fun
Avocado slices because they make everything prettier
Sour cream for tang and comfort
Tex Mex cheese grate away and melt away

Step by Step Instructions

Heat olive oil in a soup pot over medium high heat Add chopped onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant. Keep the onion moving so it does not sulk and burn.
Stir in crushed tomatoes Rotel diced tomatoes with juices and chicken broth Add garlic powder smoked paprika chili powder corn and black beans Mix thoroughly and increase heat to high. Give it a good stir so the spices wake up.
When the soup comes to a boil reduce heat to low and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors. This is where everything becomes best friends.
While the soup simmers get your toppings ready slice avocados shred cheese and prepare tortilla strips. Toppings take this from good to legendary so do not skimp.
Stir in the heavy cream and cooked chicken pieces Continue warming the soup for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. If you want it richer add a splash more cream if you want it tangier add a pinch more salt
Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of tortilla strips avocado sour cream and Tex Mex cheese Serve immediately. Eat hot and pretend you planned it this way

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Thinking you can skip the sauté step and just dump everything in raw That shortcut kills flavor by being lazy. Sauté the onion it rewards you tenfold.
Overcooking the cream Heat it gently after you add it or it might separate Nobody wants grainy cream in their soup Keep it low and slow when dairy is involved.
Forgetting to taste and adjust Seasoning is free therapy for soup Add salt last and taste as you go A small adjustment can make it sing.
Being stingy with toppings Tortilla strips and avocado are not optional they are the personalities of the bowl
Using cold chicken right out of the fridge Toss it in the pot to warm or the soup will lose some heat and momentum

Alternatives & Substitutions

No rotisserie chicken No problem Use cooked turkey shredded or even canned chicken in a pinch I still think rotisserie is the cheat code for flavor and texture.
No heavy cream Try full fat coconut milk for a dairy free route It changes the flavor a touch but keeps the creaminess intact and works well with the spices.
Want it spicier Add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onion or toss in a splash of your favorite hot sauce Works great if you like living on the edge
Need vegetarian Make it without chicken and use vegetable broth Add more beans and maybe some quinoa to make it hearty
Want a herbaceous twist Try serving a spoonful of a bright sauce on top I sometimes steal ideas from crazy good green sauce recipes like this one that pairs nicely with chicken based dishes a creamy green sauce option for a fresh finish
Out of canned tomatoes Fresh crushed tomatoes work too if you have them But canned are convenient and consistent so I usually keep a couple in the pantry

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

Q What if I only have frozen corn Can I use that
A Sure thaw it or toss it in when the soup is simmering It will cook through fine and still taste great

Q Can I swap heavy cream for milk
A You can but the soup will lose some silkiness If you must use milk add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a little cold liquid to help thicken it

Q How long does this keep in the fridge
A Stored in an airtight container it lasts for about 3 to 4 days Reheat gently on the stove to avoid dairy separation

Q Can I freeze this soup
A Yes but dairy can change texture a bit after freezing To reduce that risk freeze before adding the cream and then stir fresh cream in when you reheat

Q Any tips for making tortilla strips at home
A Cut flour or corn tortillas into strips toss with a little oil and salt then bake at 375 degrees until crispy about 8 to 12 minutes Keep an eye on them they go from perfect to charcoal fast

Q Can I make this on a slow cooker
A Absolutely Brown the onions first for flavor then combine everything except cream and toppings Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours Add cream at the end and heat through

Q What cheese melts best in this soup
A Tex Mex blend is classic but Monterey Jack or cheddar work great Pick what melts well and makes you smile

Final Thoughts

There you go a bowl of comfort that looks fancy but is basically a clever cheat code for dinner. Use rotisserie chicken to save time and grab extra toppings because they are the best part. Invite a friend over or hoard it for yourself either way you deserve this moment of deliciousness.

Now go impress someone or yourself with your new culinary skills You have earned it and you did not even have to break a sweat

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup