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Easy One-Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

A close-up, appetizing view of creamy tortilla soup topped with shredded chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro.

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Make this simple, creamy chicken tortilla soup in one pot for a satisfying weeknight dinner. It delivers bold, comforting flavor quickly.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For serving: Crispy tortilla strips, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with liquid), and green chilies (with liquid). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  6. Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving generously with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, cilantro, and avocado slices. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

  • To make quick homemade tortilla strips, cut corn tortillas into thin strips, toss lightly with oil and salt, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until crisp.
  • If you do not have cooked chicken, you can simmer 1 pound of raw chicken breasts in the broth until cooked through, then shred the chicken and return it to the pot before adding the cream.
  • For a spicier soup, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving.

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