01 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 yellow onion, diced, and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
02 -
Stir in 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1 tsp smoked paprika, cooking for 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 1/2 cups mild or medium chunky salsa. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
03 -
Add 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes, to the pot. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This step is crucial for the creamy base of your Tex-Mex Creamy Salsa Potato Soup with Shredded Chicken.
04 -
Remove about 1 cup of cooked potatoes from the pot and mash them thoroughly with a fork or potato masher. Return the mashed potatoes to the pot, stirring well to slightly thicken the soup. This enhances the body of your Tex-Mex Creamy Salsa Potato Soup with Shredded Chicken.
05 -
Reduce the heat to low. Add 4 oz cream cheese, softened, and 1/2 cup whole milk, stirring continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and smooth. Fold in 2 cups cooked shredded chicken and heat through for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is warmed.
06 -
Stir in the juice of 1 lime and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped. Season your Tex-Mex Creamy Salsa Potato Soup with Shredded Chicken generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and serve immediately.