Slow-Simmered Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chicken tortilla soup on a chilly day, especially one that’s been simmering for hours until every flavor is perfectly melded. This version is rich, hearty, and slightly spicy, with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a medley of beans and veggies that make each spoonful a satisfying bite. A long simmer transforms this dish into the ultimate comfort food — perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or warming up after a cold day outside.

Ingredients for Slow-Simmered Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 box chicken stock or broth, 32 oz (950 ml)

• 1 can ranch-style beans, 15 oz (425 g)

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed, 15 oz (425 g)

• 1 can Mexi-corn, drained, 11 oz (310 g)

• 1 can mild green chiles, 4 oz (113 g)

• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature

• 1 cup (115 g) shredded Pepper Jack cheese

• 2 Tbsp (14 g) ground cumin

• 1 tsp (3 g) cayenne pepper

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Chopped green onions, for garnish

• Tortilla chips, for garnish and thickening

• Additional shredded Pepper Jack cheese, for garnish

How to Make Slow-Simmered Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic salt, and cumin. In a frying pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken, turning until browned on all sides, and continue until fully cooked. Remove from heat.

2. In a large soup pot or slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, ranch-style beans, drained black beans, drained Mexi-corn, room-temperature cream cheese, and green chiles. Add cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

3. Shred or cube the cooled chicken and add it to the pot. Stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Simmer for at least 2 hours to blend the flavors, though 4–8 hours will create an even richer taste.

4. When ready to serve, top each bowl with chopped green onions, crushed tortilla chips, and extra shredded Pepper Jack cheese.

A Bowl Full of Comfort

This chicken tortilla soup is more than just a meal — it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. The slow simmering draws out every bit of flavor, and the combination of spices, creamy cheese, and crunchy garnishes creates a perfect balance of textures. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy dinner or serve it at a casual gathering, one thing’s for sure — you’ll be making it again and again.