Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Introduction
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm, tasty dish that makes a perfect meal for any day of the week. It combines shredded chicken, tomatoes, and spices, making it a delicious choice for families and friends. Easy to prepare, this soup simmers in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it’s simple and delicious. You get a hearty meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work for you, and the flavors blend perfectly over time. Plus, you can customize it to your liking with extra toppings or side dishes. It’s perfect for busy days, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Making Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is easy! Follow these steps to create a delightful dish for you and your loved ones.
Ingredients:
1 pound shredded, cooked chicken
1 (15 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, mashed
1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chile peppers
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups water
1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 (10 ounce) package frozen corn
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
7 corn tortillas
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, or as needed
Directions:
- Gather all ingredients.
- Place chicken, tomatoes, enchilada sauce, green chiles, onion, and garlic into a slow cooker.
- Pour in water and chicken broth; season with cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir in corn and cilantro. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours.
- When the soup is almost finished, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly brush both sides of tortillas with oil.
- Cut tortillas into strips, then spread on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until crisp, 10 to 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle tortilla strips over soup before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Serve this soup hot in bowls. You can add toppings, such as shredded cheese, avocado, or extra cilantro for a fresh touch. A squeeze of lime juice can elevate the flavors as well. Enjoy it with your favorite bread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely. Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Keep the soup thicker by reducing the amount of water.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Ensure you use cooked chicken to save time and effort.
Variation
You can make a spicy version by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with black beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
Yes, but you will need to cook it longer. Ensure the chicken reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I make this soup in a regular pot?
Absolutely! You can cook it on the stovetop, but it will take about 30 minutes. Just make sure to simmer it until the flavors meld.
3. What toppings are best for this soup?
Some great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges to enhance the flavors!
Enjoy your cooking and the delicious flavors of this easy-to-make Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup!