Oh, the joys of a slow cooker recipe that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. This Chicken Tortilla Soup is no exception, combining tender chicken, vibrant spices, and crispy tortilla strips for a comforting bowl of goodness.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding flavors together over hours for a depth you can’t rush.
- It’s incredibly versatile—swap in your favorite toppings or adjust the heat to suit your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep, this soup tastes even better the next day, making it a smart choice for busy weeks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups tortilla strips
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This ensures you won’t be scrambling mid-recipe. Rinse your black beans and corn to remove any canning liquids, which can add unwanted saltiness to your soup. Tip: Freshly squeezed lime juice can brighten the flavors, so have those limes ready to go.
Step 2: Combine in Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine. Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Tip: Resist the urge to peek too often; every time you lift the lid, you add to the cooking time.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine. This step ensures every spoonful is packed with protein.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. The toppings add texture and freshness, elevating the soup from good to great.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their Chicken Tortilla Soup to the next level, consider these advanced tips. First, homemade chicken broth can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup. Second, toasting your own tortilla strips in the oven with a bit of oil and salt adds a delightful crunch. Lastly, incorporating a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) can thicken the soup for those who prefer a heartier consistency.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for extra beans and add more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños for those who love heat.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re more forgiving and can result in even more tender meat. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it and mix it back in, or add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Summary
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a foolproof recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd, it’s a versatile dish that welcomes customization. Don’t forget the toppings—they’re the cherry on top of this delicious soup.
