When the chill of winter sets in or a rainy day calls for cozy comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits. Full Moon Cafe Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only hearty and delicious, but it’s also an absolute crowd-pleaser. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and just the right amount of spice, this soup is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Serve it with crispy tortilla strips, fresh guacamole, and a sprinkle of cheese, and you’ll have a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets the Full Moon Cafe Chicken Tortilla Soup apart from other recipes is its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and zesty tomatoes creates a symphony of taste that will keep you coming back for more. The secret lies in the seasoning; the chicken is marinated in fajita seasonings, infusing every bite with a burst of flavor. Topped with deep-fried tortilla strips and a hint of heat from diced jalapeños, this soup is as satisfying as it is delicious. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 1/2 quarts chicken stock
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup flour
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend
1 pint half and half
2 teaspoons diced jalapeños
1 (10-ounce) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies
1 cup cooked diced chicken (marinated in fajita seasonings)
Guacamole, for serving
Shredded cheese blend, for serving
Deep-fried flour tortilla strips, for serving

Equipment at a Glance

Large pot or Dutch oven – for simmering the soup.
Whisk – to combine the flour and butter mixture smoothly.
Wooden spoon – for stirring the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure ingredient accuracy.
Serving bowls – for enjoying your delicious soup.

Mastering Full Moon Cafe Chicken Tortilla Soup: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden.

Step 2: Add the Chicken Stock

Gradually pour in the chicken stock while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Step 3: Season the Soup

Stir in the white pepper, diced jalapeños, and the can of Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and add the pint of half and half, stirring gently to combine. Next, gradually mix in the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend, allowing it to melt and create a creamy texture.

Step 5: Add the Chicken

Fold in the cooked diced chicken, letting it heat through in the soup for about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with guacamole, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and deep-fried tortilla strips for that perfect crunch. Enjoy your Full Moon Cafe Chicken Tortilla Soup hot!

Substitutions by Diet

For a lighter version, replace half and half with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with black beans or extra vegetables.
For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot Rotel tomatoes according to your taste.

Learn from These Mistakes

When making Full Moon Cafe Chicken Tortilla Soup, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Skipping the roux step can result in a thin soup. Take your time to properly cook the flour and butter.
Not stirring the soup enough can cause it to stick to the bottom of the pot and burn.
Using cold chicken stock may prevent the soup from thickening properly; warm it slightly before adding.
Neglecting to taste the soup before serving can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Season to your liking!

Storing Tips & Timelines

Full Moon Cafe Chicken Tortilla Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store:

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup has thickened too much.

Reader Q&A

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to the soup. Just make sure to shred it before adding it to the pot.

How spicy is this soup?

The spice level can vary based on the jalapeños and the Rotel tomatoes you use. If you prefer milder soup, you can omit the jalapeños or choose a mild variety of Rotel.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with a side of cornbread, a fresh salad, or even some quesadillas for a complete meal.

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Wrap-Up

As we wrap up this journey through the comforting world of Full Moon Cafe Chicken Tortilla Soup, we hope you’re inspired to bring this delightful recipe into your kitchen. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress. Its creamy texture combined with the vibrant flavors of marinated chicken, zesty tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla strips makes it an irresistible dish. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a heartwarming bowl of soup that will bring everyone to the table. Happy cooking!