Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect blend of flavors and spices, making it a comforting meal that's easy to prepare.
This chicken tortilla soup is a family favorite! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it do the work.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory broth with a hint of spice
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Customizable toppings for everyone’s taste
A Flavorful Comfort Food
Chicken tortilla soup is a beloved dish that brings together the warmth of a hearty broth and the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. With its rich, savory base and a hint of spice, this soup is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating an unforgettable taste experience that your loved ones will rave about.
This recipe is especially delightful during cooler months when a hot bowl of soup can warm you from the inside out. The combination of tender chicken, black beans, and corn creates a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up pantry staples, making it as practical as it is delicious.
Healthy and Nutritious
Not only is this chicken tortilla soup delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The addition of black beans and corn provides a great source of fiber and protein, contributing to a balanced diet. Chicken is a lean protein option that helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, making this soup a smart choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Moreover, the customizable toppings allow you to add fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro, which are rich in vitamins and healthy fats. You can easily adjust the soup to meet your dietary preferences, whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or want to add more vegetables.
Easy to Prepare and Serve
One of the best things about this slow cooker chicken tortilla soup recipe is its simplicity. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to meal prep for the week ahead. You can have a delicious, homemade meal waiting for you after a long day without the stress of cooking.
Serving this soup is just as easy. Set out a variety of toppings and let everyone customize their bowls. This not only adds to the fun of the meal but also caters to different tastes and dietary needs. From crunchy tortilla chips to creamy avocado, the options are endless!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Avocado, diced
Feel free to customize your toppings to suit your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
Serve
Serve the soup hot, and let everyone add their favorite toppings!
Enjoy your delicious chicken tortilla soup!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing chicken tortilla soup is a breeze. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup appears too thick. Heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal on busy days.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this chicken tortilla soup recipe. You can easily swap the chicken for shredded beef or turkey if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with additional beans or vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini. This versatility allows you to make the soup your own, tailored to your family’s tastes.
Another variation includes adding fresh lime juice and diced jalapeños for an extra kick. This soup is meant to be enjoyed, so don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients to find your perfect bowl!
Perfect Pairings
To make your meal even more special, consider serving the chicken tortilla soup with warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread. These sides complement the soup beautifully and add an extra layer of comfort to your dining experience. A simple side salad can also brighten up the meal and provide additional nutrients.
For those who enjoy a beverage with their soup, a light beer or a chilled glass of white wine pairs nicely. Alternatively, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade can balance the flavors and enhance your dining experience. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this soup is sure to be a hit!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can add frozen chicken directly to the slow cooker. Just increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes.
→ Is this soup spicy?
The soup has a mild spice level from the taco seasoning, but you can adjust it by using less or adding more spices if you prefer.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the slow cooker in the morning.
→ What can I substitute for black beans?
You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans, depending on your preference.
Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect blend of flavors and spices, making it a comforting meal that's easy to prepare.
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Avocado, diced
How-To Steps
In the slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
Serve the soup hot, and let everyone add their favorite toppings!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g