Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Fiesta in a Pot
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever come home on a chilly evening and crave something warm and comforting? This crockpot soup recipe is your answer.
It's packed with flavour, easy to make, and tastes like a fiesta in a bowl.
Brief Overview
Originally from Tex-Mex cuisine, the chicken tortilla soup recipe is a beloved dish. This easy crockpot soup version takes about 15 minutes to prep.
The slow cooker does all the hard work for you! This recipe makes about 6-8 servings. It is perfect for a family dinner.
Main Benefits
This healthy crockpot soup is loaded with protein and fibre. It is super satisfying, plus it's the perfect weeknight soup recipe .
What makes this southwestern soup recipe so special is how flavourful it is. You can customize it with your favourite toppings!
Slow Cooker Secrets and My Grandma's Wisdom
I remember when my grandma first introduced me to the magic of slow cooking. She always said, "The slower it cooks, the better it tastes!" Honestly, she wasn't wrong.
That's especially true for this delicious crockpot chicken soup variations . It allows all those amazing spices to blend together perfectly.
Looking for dump and go soup recipes ? It doesn't get easier than this. Simply toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
Then, forget about it! I've even started it before heading out for the day. Coming home to a ready-made dinner is simply bliss.
This really is one of the best crockpot soup recipes out there. It's super adaptable. Play around with the ingredients to make it your own.
Before we dive into the full ingredient list, let me tell you a story about my first batch of this recipe.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Crockpot Soup Ever!
Okay, let's talk about what you'll need for this crazy good slow cooker chicken tortilla soup . Honestly, it's more about dump and go soup recipes than a culinary degree. So easy!
Main Ingredients: The Fiesta Lineup
Here’s what you need to whip up this southwestern soup recipe :
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Quality matters! Look for plump chicken.
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) for that optional, but awesome, sear.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. About 1 cup (150g) .
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. A good 2 tsp (10g) .
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 chopped. Aim for about 1 cup (150g) .
- Black Beans: 1 (15 oz/425g) can, rinsed and drained.
- Corn: 1 (15 oz/425g) can, drained. Or 1 ½ cups (180g) frozen!
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz/411g) can, undrained.
- Rotel: 1 (10 oz/283g) can, undrained. That's diced tomatoes and green chilies.
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups (950ml) . Go for low sodium if you're watching the salt!
- Taco Seasoning: 1 packet (about 1 oz/28g) .
- Cumin: 1 tsp (5ml) for that earthy flavor.
- Chili Powder: ½ tsp (2.5ml) for a touch of heat.
- Salt and pepper: To taste! Seasoning is all about you .
Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!
Taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder? A match made in heaven! The Rotel really punches up the flavor. Want a kick? Add a pinch of cayenne! Don't have taco seasoning? Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy kit. Just the essentials:
- 6-quart (5.7 liter) slow cooker/crockpot . Obvs! It is a crockpot soup after all.
- A large skillet. Only if you're searing the chicken.
- Cutting board and a decent chef's knife. Chopping time!
Now, get ready for one of the best crockpot soup recipes you'll ever try! It is a healthy crockpot soup , and a great way to get a delicious meal on the table on those busy weeknight soup recipes .
Cooking Method: Unleash Your Inner Chef with Crockpot Soup!
Oh my gosh, let’s talk about crockpot soup ! Honestly, there’s nothing I love more than tossing a bunch of ingredients into my slow cooker and letting it do its thing.
It’s like having a personal chef without the hefty bill. This easy crockpot soup recipe for slow cooker chicken tortilla soup is one of my all-time favorites.
It’s a southwestern soup recipe dream. You know? Let's dive in!
Prep Steps: Get Your Mise en Place On!
First things first: the essential mise en place! Chop your onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Rinse those black beans and drain the corn.
This prep work makes the dump and go soup recipes a breeze. I usually do this while binge watching Netflix. Saves time, you see? For safety, always use a sharp knife on a stable surface.
step-by-step: Easy Peasy Crockpot Magic
Here’s how to make this chicken tortilla soup recipe a reality:
- (Optional) Sear Chicken: Brown chicken in a skillet, about 2- 3 minutes per side. Trust me, it adds flavor!
- Crockpot Time: Add onion, garlic, pepper, beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and spices to your crockpot.
- Chicken On Top: Place the chicken on top of everything else.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 3- 4 hours .
- Shred It: Shred chicken with two forks.
- Soup Reunion: Return chicken to the crockpot.
- Seasoning Check: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning, if needed.
- Serve It Up: Ladle into bowls and go crazy with toppings.
Pro Tips: Secrets to Crockpot Soup Success
Want to take your crockpot chicken soup variations to the next level? Searing the chicken is clutch. Also, don't overcook the chicken, it will be ruined!.
A common mistake is over salting. Taste before you add more. If you want to get ahead, chop all your veggies the night before.
That would be wonderful to save time. What a great healthy crockpot soup .
Honestly, this best crockpot soup recipes is perfect for weeknight soup recipes or any time you want a delicious, stress free meal.
Give it a try. You won't regret it! This is my go to dump and go soup recipes .
Recipe Notes That'll Make You Say "Yum!"
Okay, so you're ready to dive into this slow cooker chicken tortilla soup ? Awesome! Before you get started, let's chat about a few little things to really make this easy crockpot soup shine.
Think of these as friendly tips from your kitchen buddy. Honestly, I’ve made this crockpot soup so many times, I’ve learned a thing or two, like the best time to add the cilantro (right at the end, trust me!).
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Let's talk presentation. A simple swirl of sour cream can make this southwestern soup recipe look extra fancy. And don’t forget the crunch ! A handful of tortilla strips adds a satisfying texture.
Honestly, a little chopped avocado never hurt anybody. Think about serving this chicken tortilla soup recipe with a lime wedge for a bright, zesty kick! It is one of the best crockpot soup recipes .
Storage Savvy: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? (If you do, you’re stronger than me!). This weeknight soup recipes keep great! Just pop it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days .
Wanna freeze it? Go for it! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer safe bags or containers. It’ll last for up to 3 months .
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop. Be sure to avoid reheating for too long or drying it out.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen
Feeling adventurous? Let’s tweak this healthy crockpot soup ! For a dairy-free version, skip the sour cream and cheese, and top with a dollop of coconut cream instead.
It's surprisingly good! And for a low-carb option, load up on the veggies and use cauliflower rice instead of tortilla strips.
You could even try different beans, like pinto beans. When thinking of crockpot chicken soup variations , let your creativity shine!
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in a Bowl
This dump and go soup recipes aren't just delicious, they are packed with goodness! We are talking protein from the chicken and beans.
Fiber from the beans, corn, and veggies keeps you feeling full. Plus, all those colorful veggies offer a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.
It’s a win-win, really!
So, there you have it! Your cheat sheet to crockpot soup success. Now go forth and create some slow cooker recipes magic! Remember, cooking should be fun, so don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Happy slurping!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this crockpot soup ahead of time? Like, a day before my Downton Abbey viewing party?
Absolutely! In fact, many soups taste even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld. Just cool the soup completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the crockpot before serving. Remember to keep refrigerated leftovers at all times!
My chicken always dries out in the slow cooker. How do I prevent dry chicken in this crockpot soup recipe?
Ah, the bane of every slow cooker enthusiast! To avoid dry chicken, don't overcook it. Check for doneness around 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. Searing the chicken beforehand also helps retain moisture. Also, ensure there's enough liquid in the crockpot to keep the chicken submerged.
What's the best way to store leftover crockpot soup, and how long will it last?
Cool your leftover crockpot soup completely before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 2-3 months). Just be aware that the texture of some toppings, like avocado, might change after freezing.
Is there a vegetarian version of this crockpot soup? I'm trying to cut down on meat like a good veggie loving British citizen.
You bet! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the chicken altogether. To make it even heartier, add an extra can of black beans or pinto beans. You could also add some diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added flavour and texture.
Can I adjust the spice level of this slow cooker chicken tortilla soup? My taste buds are more "mild" than "spicy".
Definitely! This recipe is easily customizable. To reduce the heat, use a mild taco seasoning, reduce or omit the chili powder, and skip the diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel). If you really like it mild, you can even add a dollop of sour cream right into the soup to cut the spice.
What if I don't have all the toppings listed? Are they really necessary for this chicken tortilla crockpot soup?
While the soup is delicious on its own, the toppings are what truly elevate it to "fiesta in a pot" status! Think of them like the perfect hat for a fabulous outfit - they complete the look. But if you're missing some, don't fret! Tortilla chips or strips are a must have for the crunch.
Avocado, sour cream or greek yogurt, cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges are all recommended, but if you are missing one or two, don't worry too much. Be creative and use what you have. Maybe some extra corn, or a dollop of your favourite salsa!
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Fiesta In A Po
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 8g |