When you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that feels like comfort in a bowl, Cheesy Rotel Chicken Soup is the perfect choice. This rich and creamy soup combines tender chicken, flavorful diced tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheese to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. It’s ideal for cold evenings, busy weeknights, or anytime you want a cozy homemade meal with bold flavor.
What makes this soup especially appealing is its simplicity. With basic pantry ingredients and flexible cooking options, it can be prepared in a slow cooker for hands-off convenience or on the stovetop when time is limited. The result is a smooth, cheesy soup with just the right touch of spice that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients :
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 32 ounces chicken broth
- 2 cans diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 block cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional thickening ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water, or
- A small pinch of xanthan gum
Instructions :
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, garlic salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend adds depth and warmth to the soup base.
Step 2: Cook the Soup
Place the seasoned chicken, chicken broth, and undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies into a slow cooker or large pot.
- Slow cooker: Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4 hours
- Stovetop: Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring constantly until the soup becomes creamy and well combined.
Step 5: Adjust Thickness
If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes. You can also stir in the cornstarch mixture or a small amount of xanthan gum for extra thickness.
Helpful Tips
- Allow cheeses to come to room temperature before adding to prevent clumping
- Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you enjoy more heat
- Stir frequently after adding cheese to keep the texture smooth
Serving Ideas
Serve this soup hot with:
- Crusty bread or cornbread
- Crackers or tortilla chips
- A fresh green salad for balance
This soup also reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.
Conclusion :
Cheesy Rotel Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a hint of spice into a satisfying and flavorful meal. Its simple preparation and adaptable cooking methods make it a reliable recipe for both busy days and relaxed evenings at home.
Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a cozy dish to warm you up, this soup delivers every time. Rich, hearty, and comforting, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
