Martina McBride's Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Martina McBride is not shy about her adoration of making, serving, and eating this creamy chicken tortilla soup, especially in her 2018 cookbook Martina's Kitchen Mix: My Recipe Playlist for Real Life.

"I do love making soups, and I feel like it's something you can put on the stove and let it simmer all day, and it makes the whole house smell good," she told Southern Living, noting what a great option soups are when cooking for a crowd. "Honestly, you could put on a big pot of a soup and a crusty loaf of bread, and nobody's gonna complain about that," she quips.

In her cookbook, the Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is certainly a fan-favorite. "Flavorful and delicious, this is a creamy, comforting version of the classic. Make it spicier by adding more jalapeño or smokier with chipotle chili powder in place of the regular chili powder. I prefer fresh corn here, but frozen will do in a pinch," McBride writes in the note accompanying the recipe.

What Is Tortilla Soup?

Also known as "Sopa Azteca," the traditional version of this Mexican soup is known for its comforting, rich flavor. A tomato-based broth is seasoned with herbs and spices, and vegetables and sometimes proteins like chicken, beef, or beans, are added in for a hearty side dish or main course. Tortilla strips are sprinkled over the top before serving.

This twist on the classic soup calls in the same flavors, but with a creamy base that adds another level of comfort to this soul-satisfying dish.

Ingredients for Martina McBride's Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Spices, aromatics, and creamy elements come together to flavor this hearty soup filled with chicken, beans, and corn. The garnishes take it over the top. To make this creamy chicken tortilla soup, you'll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein for the soup. Can be substituted with shredded rotisserie chicken if desired.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Seasons the chicken.
• Chicken broth: A savory liquid base for the soup.
• Canola oil: To sauté the onions and other aromatics.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and an aromatic depth.
• Jalapeño: For a touch of mild heat, flavor, and color.
• Garlic cloves: Adds a savory touch to the soup.
• Chili powder, cumin, and paprika: A blend of spices that add depth, warmth, and smokiness to the soup.
• Canned tomatoes with diced green chiles: For a mild heat, acidity, and sweetness.
• Masa harina: Thickens the soup with a subtle corn flavor. If needed, substitute with corn flour or all-purpose flour.
• Milk: Adds creaminess to the soup.
• Canned black beans and pinto beans: For a protein-rich, tender addition.
• Fresh or frozen corn: For a pop of sweetness and color.
• Heavy cream: Adds a rich creaminess to the soup.
• Sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
• For garnishing: Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, corn tortilla chips, and hot sauce.

How To Make Martina McBride's Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

The bulk of the time spent making this soup is hands-off, leaving just 45 minutes of active time for a hearty, flavorful soup that's ready to serve a crowd. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare chicken: Preheat oven to 350°F. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place in a greased 11- x 7-inch baking dish. Top with 1 cup broth and cover. Bake 45 minutes or until cooked through. Reserve the cooking liquid and shred the chicken.
• Step 2. Cook aromatics: Heat oil in a large Dutch oven. Add the onion and jalapeño; cook 3 minutes. Add the garlic; stir and cook 30 seconds. Add remaining broth, cooking liquid, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and tomatoes.
• Step 3. Finish soup: Whisk together the masa and milk and stir into the soup. Cook, stirring, until the mixture boils and thickens slightly. Stir in the chicken, black beans, pinto beans, and corn. Reduce heat to low and stir in cream and sour cream. Serve with garnishes.

Can I Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Ahead?

This soup can be prepared ahead, and in fact, it can help the flavors meld and deepen as it sits. Cook the soup as written, through the point of adding the chicken, beans, and corn. Cool to room temperature. Cover or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days for the freshest flavor. You can also freeze the soup for up to two months for longer storage.

Before serving, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Heat on the stovetop until hot throughout; add the cream and sour cream, and garnish fresh before serving.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To store and reheat leftover soup, refrigerate covered or in an airtight container for up to four days, or freeze for up to two months. Consider freezing in small portions so you can reheat the soup quickly as needed. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat small portions on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve. Garnish before serving.

What To Serve With Martina McBride's Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

With a variety of toppings served alongside, including shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, corn tortilla chips, and hot sauce, this soup is a hearty one-pot meal. Add even more variety by serving with pickled or sliced jalapeños, green onions, lime wedges, and other favorite toppings.

Bulk up the meal by pairing the soup with Mexican rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips and salsa for snacking on before serving.

Why This Recipe Gets Rave Reviews

With its velvety texture and satisfying flavor, this creamy chicken tortilla soup is a must-make. But don't just take our word for it:

SusanGee commented, "I love this recipe. I've made it many times. I've doubled it and brought it to potlucks, where is has been devoured. The masa harissa — which thickens as well as flavors — makes this recipe different from all other chicken recipes I've tried."

Another Southern Living community member said, "The best I’ve ever made !!! The addition of the masa gives it a very nice flavor and a little texture. We love it. And it makes a lot."

Finally, Jan D said, "Definitely a keeper as written. So so good! Headed off to buy her cookbook ...."

More Hearty Soup Recipes You'll Love

A comforting and nourishing choice for dinner, these soup recipes are perfect for warming the body and soul:

• Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
• Broccoli-Cheddar Soup
• Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheddar Cheese
• Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
• 7-Can Soup
• Busy Day Soup
• Baked Potato Soup
• Easy Taco Soup
• Slow-Cooker Corn Chowder
• Slow-Cooker Black Bean Soup
• Soulful Chicken Soup
  

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.