Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
- 4 oz cream cheese (or ½ cup heavy cream)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Crispy Tortilla Strips:
- 4 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced avocado 🥑
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Extra shredded cheese
- Diced jalapeños 🌶
- Fresh lime wedges 🍋
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- Add diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, and chicken broth.
- Place the chicken breasts directly into the pot.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the cooked chicken breasts and shred them using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
- Stir in cream cheese or heavy cream until fully melted and smooth.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness (optional).
- Simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
- Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Make Crispy Tortilla Strips
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss tortilla strips with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder.
- Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
- Ladle hot soup into bowls.
- Garnish with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, sour cream, and extra cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, creamy goodness!
Notes
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
✔ Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds extra flavor!
✔ Melt the Cream Cheese Slowly – Ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
✔ Make It Spicier – Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder.
✔ Blend for Extra Creaminess – Blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken.
✔ Use Fresh Toppings – Avocado, lime, and fresh cilantro enhance the flavors beautifully.