Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla chips for serving; Shredded cheese, avocado, and cilantro for garnish

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Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that combines the warmth and richness of classic chicken soup with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting soup that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. With its tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty spices, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. The slow cooker makes it a breeze to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: Approximately 320
Protein: 24 grams
Carbohydrates: 36 grams
Fat: 9 grams
Fiber: 8 grams
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 680 mg

Why Make This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only simple but also the perfect solution for busy days. You simply throw everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! The result is a rich, flavorful soup that has a nice kick thanks to the cumin and chili powder. It’s a healthy option packed with protein and fiber, and the use of fresh toppings like avocado, cheese, and cilantro adds a wonderful freshness. The satisfaction of enjoying a homemade soup after a long day is unparalleled.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips for serving
Shredded cheese, avocado, and cilantro for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the ingredients together.

Step 2: Cooking

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to really develop, making your soup taste even better.

Step 3: Shredding

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir well. This step makes sure that every bite is filled with tender chicken goodness.

Step 4: Tasting and Final Touches

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even more chili powder if you prefer a spicier kick. Serve the soup hot with tortilla chips and garnish with shredded cheese, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro to enhance its flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup is best enjoyed hot. Serve it in deep bowls alongside a generous amount of tortilla chips for dipping. You can also top each serving with extra ingredients like sliced avocados, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and color. It’s a fantastic dish for gatherings, cozy nights in, or casual weeknight dinners.

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion when freezing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

For extra flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Feel free to customize the toppings based on what you have available. Sour cream, fresh lime juice, or sliced jalapeños make great additions!
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it before serving.
Experiment with different beans, such as pinto beans or chickpeas, for a unique twist.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for diced firm tofu or extra beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless option.
Spicy Option: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
Creamy Twist: Stir in some heavy cream or sour cream towards the end of the cooking time for a richer, creamier texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can add frozen chicken directly to the slow cooker. Just ensure to cook the soup for the longer time to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
Can I make this soup in advance? Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
What type of cheese works best? Shredded cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack also works beautifully for a hint of spice.
Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Can I use fresh vegetables? Of course! Fresh zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn on the cob can be delicious additions to the soup.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a winning recipe that brings comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients to your table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for family dinners or serving at gatherings with friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be customized to fit everyone’s tastes and dietary needs. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and give this delicious soup a try—you won’t be disappointed!