Name: Creamy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with chilies; 1 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 tbsp lime juice; Avocado slices; Additional shredded cheese; Fresh cilantro; Lime wedges

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 83 reviews

If you’re craving a bowl of comforting, flavor-packed soup that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe. It’s everything you love about chicken tortilla soup — rich, spicy, and full of vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors — but without the beans or crunchy tortillas. This soup is silky, satisfying, and wildly simple to whip up, making it an absolute weeknight winner you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl with a red geometric pattern holds a creamy orange soup mixed with small red and green vegetable pieces, filling the bowl mostly. On top, there is a circle of white sour cream surrounding a small mound of yellow and white shredded cheese. Next to the cheese are several green avocado cubes, and fresh green herbs are scattered around the sour cream. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and a luscious texture. Each element, from the creamy cheese to the zesty lime juice, plays an essential role in making this soup both hearty and satisfying without carb overload.

2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Using rotisserie chicken speeds things up and adds great flavor.
4 cups chicken broth: The savory base that brings everything together with warmth and depth.
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream: For that luxurious creaminess that makes the soup indulgent yet keto-friendly.
1 can diced tomatoes with chilies: Adds a spicy kick and vibrant color.
1 tbsp taco seasoning: Brings classic Mexican spices into the mix, yielding authentic taste.
½ cup shredded cheese: Melted right into the soup for richness and texture.
1 tbsp lime juice: A hint of citrus brightness that elevates every spoonful.
Optional toppings (avocado, extra cheese, cilantro, lime): These fresh garnishes enhance flavor and presentation while keeping it keto.

How to Make Creamy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Step 1: Combine Broth, Tomatoes, Taco Seasoning, and Chicken

Start by pouring the chicken broth into a pot over medium heat. Add the diced tomatoes with chilies and the taco seasoning for that signature kick. Stir in the shredded chicken, letting all those ingredients mingle while you bring the soup just to a gentle simmer. This stage lets the flavors start developing into the hearty base you’re craving.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup for 10 Minutes

Keep the soup at a low simmer for about 10 minutes. This slow bubble allows the chicken to soak up the spices and the tomatoes to release their rich essence into the broth. It also gives time for the soup to slightly reduce, which intensifies the taste and ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Stir in the Cream, Cheese, and Lime Juice

Turn down the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream if you prefer), the shredded cheese, and the lime juice. Watch as the cheese melts smoothly into the soup, creating that irresistible creamy texture, while the lime lifts the flavors with a fresh zing. Be sure to keep the heat low enough so the cream doesn’t curdle—just a gentle warmth is all you need.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

This is your chance to get the soup just right. Taste to see if you want more salt, a little extra lime juice for tang, or an additional pinch of taco seasoning for spice. Adjusting the seasoning here ensures that your Creamy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe hits exactly the flavor note you’re hoping for.

How to Serve Creamy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

A white shallow bowl filled with a red soup topped with sliced green avocado, jalapeño slices, small green herbs, and shredded pale chicken pieces. Behind the bowl are three small white ramekins holding chopped green onions, light orange shredded cheese, and crispy light brown tortilla strips. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh toppings truly elevate this soup to the next level. Slices of ripe avocado add buttery creaminess and healthy fats. Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese for gooey indulgence and a handful of chopped cilantro for herbal brightness. A wedge of lime on the side lets everyone add a splash of citrus just before digging in, perfect for balancing the richness.

Side Dishes

This soup stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with light keto sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or some crunchy pork rinds for dipping. You can even serve it alongside cauliflower rice, which amps up the heartiness while keeping everything low carb and gluten-free.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls topped with dollops of sour cream or crema and a sprinkle of crushed keto-friendly tortilla chips made from cheese crisps. You could also layer the soup over a bed of sautéed cauliflower rice in shallow bowls to mimic a stew-like experience, impressing guests while sticking firmly to keto principles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. The creaminess might thicken overnight, so you may want to stir in a splash of broth or water when reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the texture of creamy soups can change slightly after freezing, so consider leaving out the cheese until reheating to maintain the best consistency.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove. Stir frequently and add a bit of broth or water if the soup becomes too thick. Avoid microwaving on high heat as it can cause separation of the cream. With a little care, your soup will taste just as delicious the second time around!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cream?

Absolutely. Heavy cream provides the richest texture, but coconut cream is a fantastic dairy-free option that still creates a creamy mouthfeel and adds a subtle coconut note which pairs nicely with the Mexican spices.

Is this soup spicy?

The spice level mainly comes from the diced tomatoes with chilies and the taco seasoning, which is usually mild to medium. You can adjust the heat by choosing a milder or spicier taco seasoning or adding extra chili flakes if you like a bit more punch.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes, cauliflower rice is a popular addition for extra body without the carbs. You could also add diced bell peppers or zucchini if you want more texture and nutrition. Just keep them low carb and don’t overdo it to maintain the keto balance.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melt smoothly and give great flavor, but feel free to use your favorite shredded cheese. Avoid hard aged cheeses that don’t melt well to keep the soup creamy.

How can I make this soup thicker?

Adding cauliflower rice during cooking can help thicken the soup naturally. You can also simmer it a touch longer to reduce the liquid, or add a bit more cheese or cream for a richer consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Keto Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe effortlessly combines indulgent creaminess with bold, flavorful ingredients that honor classic Mexican tastes without breaking your keto goals. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, it’s a delightful, cozy dish that is sure to become one of your favorites. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and savor every comforting, spicy spoonful!