Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

🕒 Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 35 min | Total Time: 45 min

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded chicken)
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 oz packet taco seasoning (about 3 tablespoons)
• 1½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• ⅓ cup cream cheese, softened

Toppings

• Corn or flour tortillas, sliced and toasted (see notes)
• Optional: avocado, fresh cilantro, extra cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Base
   Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and jalapeño. Cook for 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant. 🌶️
2. Build the Soup
   Stir in tomato paste, corn, Rotel, black beans, chicken broth, and chicken. Add cayenne, cumin, hot sauce, and taco seasoning. Start with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning and adjust later to taste.
3. Simmer Gently
   Bring to a slow simmer, partially covered. Cook chicken for 20–25 minutes until done. Avoid rapid boiling to keep the chicken tender.
4. Shred & Return Chicken
   Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and stir it back into the soup. 🥣
5. Make it Creamy
   Lower heat. Gradually stir in cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese until fully melted and creamy.
6. Taste & Serve
   Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, or extra cheese. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, then stir in cheeses at the end.
• Use Leftovers: Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great and saves time.
• Crispy Tortilla Strips: Cut tortillas into strips, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until golden.

Nutrition Info Table + Disclaimer

Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.