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Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

A close-up overhead view of a bowl of creamy chicken tortilla soup, topped with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cilantro, and a swirl of cream.

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A simple and flavorful creamy chicken tortilla soup recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal. This Tex-Mex inspired soup is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  4. Add black beans, corn, shredded chicken, and diced green chilies. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and cilantro. Heat through but do not boil.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a spicier soup, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can poach and shred chicken breasts or thighs.
  • For a cheesy version, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese in the last few minutes of cooking.
  • This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. Add the cream just before serving.

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