What makes a perfectly comforting soup? This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution, loaded with shredded chicken and crunchy tortilla strips. Save this idea for a homemade family favorite that everyone will love, perfect for a cozy night in, try it soon!

two bowls of creamy chicken tortilla soup

Introduction

Imagine a chilly evening, and you’re craving something that’s both comforting and flavorful. Look no further than a delicious, homemade bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup. This recipe is a masterclass in ease, flavor, and creativity, utilizing everyday ingredients to create a dish that’s not only impressive but also incredibly satisfying. With its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and crunchy tortilla strips, this soup is a perfect blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. The best part? It’s remarkably easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist, and the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive results, the soup is straightforward to prepare, with steps that are simple to follow and require no special cooking techniques.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The creamy texture and the addition of tortilla strips give the soup a restaurant-quality feel without needing hours of preparation or exotic ingredients.

Key Ingredients

The foundation of this creamy chicken tortilla soup includes boneless, skinless chicken breasts, a variety of vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, tortillas for the crunchy strips, and a blend of spices including cumin, chili powder, and paprika. For the creamy element, heavy cream or half-and-half is added, though for a lighter version, you could substitute with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative. Practical substitutions can be made based on personal preferences or dietary needs, such as using gluten-free tortillas or opting for low-sodium broth.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Cut the tortillas into strips and set them aside for later use. Measure out your spices and have your chicken and broth ready.
2. Step 2: In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, then add the bell peppers and cook until they start to soften. Add the chicken to the pot, seasoning with cumin, chili powder, and paprika, and cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through.
3. Step 3: Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat and letting it simmer. While the soup is cooking, fry the tortilla strips in a little oil until crispy and set them aside. Once the soup has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, or transfer some of it to a blender, to create a creamy texture. Then, stir in the heavy cream or your chosen cream substitute.
4. Step 4: For the final touches, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the soup hot, topped with the crispy tortilla strips, some shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and any other desired toppings such as diced avocado, sour cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro.

Handy Tips

• For an extra rich soup, use chicken broth that’s been reduced or intensified by cooking it for a longer period or using less water. Also, be mindful of the cream’s quantity to avoid an overly rich soup.
• Consider roasting your vegetables before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor profile.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken and vegetables to maintain their texture and prevent the soup from becoming too thick or mushy.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the chicken and frying the tortilla strips. For the chicken, cook over medium heat to prevent burning the outside before the inside is fully cooked. For the tortilla strips, medium to medium-high heat is ideal to achieve a crispy exterior without burning. The soup itself should simmer at a low heat to allow the flavors to meld together without reducing too quickly.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this soup comes from the fried tortilla strips. To achieve the perfect crunch, fry the strips in hot oil until they’re golden brown, then remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. You can also bake the tortilla strips in the oven as a healthier alternative, tossing them in a little oil and seasoning before spreading them on a baking sheet and baking until crispy.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before baking the tortilla strips.
• Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the ideal frying temperature for the crispiest tortilla strips.
• Prepare ingredients ahead of time. Chopping vegetables and measuring spices can be done a day in advance to speed up the cooking process.

Storage Tips

• Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more broth if the soup has thickened too much.
• For longer storage, the soup can be frozen without the cream and tortilla strips. When reheating, add the cream and prepare fresh tortilla strips for the best texture.
• Use airtight, microwave-safe containers for reheating convenience and to preserve flavors.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this soup, it can be packaged in insulated containers to keep it warm during transport. Add a bag of crispy tortilla strips, some shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream on the side, along with instructions for reheating. For a more personalized touch, include a small bag of crusty bread or some fresh cilantro for added freshness.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Experiment with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or add some heat with diced jalapeños.
• Creative toppings: In addition to the standard toppings, consider adding some diced radishes for extra crunch, pickled onions for a tangy flavor, or a sprinkle of queso fresco for a salty kick.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of protein like shrimp or beef for a change of pace, or substitute some of the vegetables with others like zucchini or mushrooms.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more broth. If it’s too thin, reduce it further or add a little cornstarch to thicken.
• Ingredient replacements: Don’t have heavy cream? Use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken.
• Over/undercooking signs: Chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Vegetables should be tender but still crisp. If the soup is too hot, it can burn the cream, so adjust the heat accordingly.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the cream and tortilla strips to preserve texture and flavor.
• Is it gluten-free? The soup can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free tortillas and ensure the broth and any added ingredients are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, just keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust the seasoning accordingly as the flavors concentrate.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken tortilla soup is a versatile and delicious meal that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. With its combination of comforting warmth, rich flavors, and satisfying crunch, it’s perfect for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or even a thoughtful gift for a friend in need of a pick-me-up. Feel free to experiment with the recipe, adding your own favorite spices or toppings to make it truly yours. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, providing warmth and comfort with every bowl.