An ideal dish for a comfortable evening in is Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup, which is loaded with flavor. Allow the flavorful ingredients to combine in a warming bowl of bliss by letting the slow cooker handle the labor for you. When you need a filling and cozy dinner but are busy, this simple recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Tasting Notes
This Chicken Tortilla Soup is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and zesty spices. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to intensify, creating a rich and savory broth. Topped with crunchy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro, each spoonful is a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tortilla strips (for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Kitchen Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Can opener
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, onion, bell pepper, and garlic on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper over the ingredients.
- Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro. Offer lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Pro Tips
- For a smokier flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Make extra tortilla strips for a crispy snack on the side.
Variations
- Add a can of green chilies for additional flavor.
- Include cooked rice or quinoa for added substance.
- Experiment with different toppings such as sour cream or diced green onions.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to three months.
How do I store the tortilla strips to keep them crispy?
Store tortilla strips separately in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tortilla strips (for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, onion, bell pepper, and garlic on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper over the ingredients.
- Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro. Offer lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6 servingsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 400Total Fat: 15gSodium: 1000mgCarbohydrates: 30gFiber: 7gSugar: 5gProtein: 30g
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