Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, beans, corn, and a blend of spices, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Great flavors: The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, green chilies, and spices creates a rich and robust flavor profile.
- Easy prep: Simply dump all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it simmer away, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: This soup can be customized with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, and sour cream, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredient Notes:
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Provides protein and a meaty texture. You can use either based on your preference.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor without being too salty. You can use regular chicken broth if preferred.
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds a smoky and slightly charred flavor to the soup. Regular diced tomatoes can be substituted.
- Chopped green chilies: Adds a mild heat and tanginess to the soup. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place chicken, broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilies, onion, garlic, and spices in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken, then add black beans and corn. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like crushed tortilla chips, cheese, avocado, and cilantro.
Helpful Tips:
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the beans and corn.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder and cumin to suit your taste.
- This soup freezes well, so make a double batch for future meals.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds an extra depth of flavor.
- Use fresh cilantro as a garnish for a burst of freshness right before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this soup with warm cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a refreshing margarita or a cold beer for a Mexican-inspired feast.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to thin out the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? – Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs will provide more flavor.
- How can I make this soup spicier? – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker? – Yes, simmer the ingredients in a pot for 1-2 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Are there any vegetarian substitutions for the chicken? – You can omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Try it out and customize it with your favorite toppings for a satisfying and comforting dish. Enjoy and share your feedback with us!
PrintSlow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 mins – 8 hours 15 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 (14.5 oz cans) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
- 3/4 cups finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups frozen corn
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For serving (optional):
- Tortilla chips, crushed
- Shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese
- Diced avocado, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs, rinse the onion and garlic under hot water, and chop all necessary ingredients.
- Cook the soup: Combine chicken, broth, tomatoes, tomato sauce, chilies, onion, garlic, and spices in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in black beans, corn, and cilantro during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional toppings like crushed tortilla chips, cheese, avocado, tomatoes, and sour cream.
Notes
- You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder and green chilies.
- Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg