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, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes w/ 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 (like Frank’s)
• 1 oz packet taco seasoning (about 3 tbsp)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ⅓ cup cream cheese, softened

Optional Toppings

• Corn or flour tortilla strips
• Sour cream, diced avocado, shredded cheese, jalapeños, cilantro

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the base:
   In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and jalapeño, and cook for 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and sauté 1 minute more.
2. Add the bulk:
   Add tomato paste, corn, Rotel, black beans, chicken broth, raw chicken, seasonings, and hot sauce. Start with 2 tbsp of taco seasoning — you can always add more later.
3. Simmer gently:
   Bring soup to a slow simmer, partially covered. Avoid boiling rapidly — this keeps the chicken tender and juicy. 💧
4. Shred the chicken:
   After 20–25 minutes, remove the cooked chicken and shred with two forks. Return it to the pot.
5. Add the creamy goodness:
   Lower the heat and slowly stir in the cheddar and cream cheese until smooth and melty. 🧀
6. Finish & serve:
   Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Top with crunchy tortilla strips and your favorite garnishes. Enjoy warm!

💡 Pro Tips

• Make it crock pot–friendly: Sauté onions, peppers, and garlic first, then transfer everything (except cheese) to the slow cooker. Cook on low 6 hrs or high 4 hrs.
• Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie or leftover chicken? Add it early to let the flavors blend — no need to boil.
• Tortilla crisp tip: Cut tortillas into strips and fry in hot oil until golden. Drain on paper towels and salt lightly.

📊 Nutrition Info

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 cup	204	13g	17g	10g	4g	3g

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.