Bold & Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe!

The first time I made this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, I didn’t expect it to become a regular in my weekly dinner rotation—but it truly earned its place. It’s warm, cheesy, just the right amount of spicy, and it comes together with simple pantry ingredients that I almost always have on hand.

What really makes it shine is the velvety base—thanks to cheddar cheese soup and half-and-half—that wraps each spoonful in rich, cozy comfort. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights because it’s nutrient-dense and super satisfying, yet it fits perfectly into a balanced lifestyle.

In fact, soups like this have been shown to increase satiety, meaning they help you feel full longer without overeating—great for those watching portion sizes or aiming for mindful eating.

I like to pair it with a crunchy Vibrant Cauliflower Tomato Salad for contrast, or follow it with a light dessert like Strawberry Tres Leches when I’m hosting. And yes, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

It’s bold, creamy, and comforting—just what a busy weeknight calls for. Now I can’t imagine colder months without it.

Have your own twist? I’d love to hear how you make it yours.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too!)

• I made this soup for the first time on a rainy Thursday—and it was like a warm hug in a bowl: It instantly lifted my mood and became a comfort-food favorite.
• It fits beautifully into my meal prep routine: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to.
• I started making it when I was shifting toward lighter eating: The creamy texture keeps things indulgent without loading up on heavy carbs.
• I’ve swapped in grilled corn or fresh lime before—both work great: It’s flexible and forgiving, perfect for whatever’s in your fridge.
• The simple prep saves me on hectic weeknights: Everything simmers in one pot with minimal cleanup, and that’s a win in any kitchen.

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

This creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup blends savory flavors with a velvety, cheesy base. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s a satisfying one-pot dish that combines spiciness, creaminess, and crunch in every bite!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6

Calories 321 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Can Opener
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Ladle (for serving)

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 14 ounce cans chicken broth
• 1 10.5 ounce can condensed Cheddar cheese soup
• 1 cup picante sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 pound cooked chicken shredded
• ⅔ cup drained and rinsed canned corn
• ½ cup half-and-half
• ¼ cup tortilla strips

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
  
• Stir in chicken broth, cheddar cheese soup, picante sauce, chili powder, oregano, cumin, cilantro, white pepper, and bay leaf.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes.
  
• Add the shredded chicken, canned corn, and half-and-half. Stir to combine and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  
• Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips before serving.
  

Nutrition Info:

Delicious Variations For This Recipe!

1. Add Roasted Poblano Peppers: For a deeper, smokier flavor, roast poblano peppers and blend them into the soup base. This adds complexity and a slight heat without overwhelming the palate.
2. Incorporate Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: If you’re craving more of a smoky, spicy kick, chop up a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce and add it to the soup. It gives a bold, layered flavor.
3. Substitute with Spicy Sausage: Instead of chicken, use spicy sausage (chorizo works great!) for a richer, more savory profile. Brown the sausage before adding it to the soup for extra flavor depth.
4. Creamy Coconut Twist: Swap half-and-half with coconut milk for a dairy-free, tropical variation. It adds a hint of sweetness that balances out the spices, while still keeping the creamy texture.
5. Add Sweet Potatoes: For an unexpected twist, add diced sweet potatoes to the soup. Their natural sweetness complements the chili powder and cumin, making for a more robust, comforting meal.
6. Top with Avocado Cream: Mix avocado with a little sour cream and lime juice to create a creamy topping for the soup. It adds freshness and an extra layer of richness.
7. Layer in Black Beans: For extra fiber and texture, add black beans alongside the chicken and corn. This adds earthiness and makes the soup even more filling.
8. Use Tortilla Chips for Extra Crunch: Instead of simple tortilla strips, use crushed tortilla chips as a crunchy garnish. It adds more texture and a saltier, more satisfying bite.
9. Add a Squeeze of Lime: Brighten up the soup with a fresh squeeze of lime just before serving. It cuts through the richness and enhances the other flavors.
10. Make it Smoky with Smoked Paprika: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the base for a smoky flavor without the need for chipotle. It’s subtle but adds a delicious depth that balances the creaminess.

Try more of our recipes:

Mexican Street Corn Soup: Spicy Elote Soup! Taco Salad Dressing Recipe (Fast & Flavorful) Savor the Flavors of Fall Season with Butternut Squash Soup! Caramelized Bliss in a Bowl: This French Onion Soup of Your Fall Season Dreams!