Description
A rich and satisfying creamy tortilla soup bursting with tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a flavorful blend of Mexican spices in a smooth, creamy broth. Topped with crispy tortilla strips, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for a comforting and delicious meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Tortilla strips
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onion and bell pepper: Cook diced onion and red bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute until fragrant to build the soup’s base flavor.
- Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in chicken broth and add the canned diced tomatoes; bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer the soup: Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes allowing flavors to meld together.
- Add shredded chicken: Stir in cooked shredded chicken and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Incorporate cream cheese: Add softened cream cheese to the soup and stir until melted and smooth, creating a creamy texture.
- Add heavy cream: Pour in heavy cream and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, ensuring the soup is heated through and creamy.
- Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper according to your preference and stir well.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges for a delicious finish.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit chicken.
- Use fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
