There’s something heartwarming about coming home to a bowl of delicious, warm soup after a long day. Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect comfort food, offering layers of bold flavors and hearty ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is as convenient as it is satisfying.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Imagine tender shredded chicken, earthy spices, and the crunch of tortilla strips in every bite. This soup is perfect for chilly nights, busy days, or when you simply want to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings and adjust the spice level to your taste.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
Soup Base Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 4 1/2 cups |
| Petite diced tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Yellow onion, finely chopped | 1 1/4 cups |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Chili powder | 1 Tbsp |
| Ground cumin | 2 tsp |
| Paprika | 3/4 tsp |
| Ground coriander | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Protein and Add-ins
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 1/2 lbs |
| Black beans, drained and rinsed | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Frozen corn | 1 1/2 cups |
| Fresh lime juice | 1 Tbsp |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Optional Toppings
- Tortilla strips or tortilla chips
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream
- Diced Roma tomatoes
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and measuring your spices. Preparing these elements in advance ensures smooth cooking.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Pour the chicken broth and diced tomatoes into your slow cooker.
- Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts on top, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid.
3. Cook the Soup
Set your slow cooker to LOW and let it cook for 6 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
5. Add the Final Ingredients
Stir in the black beans, frozen corn, lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Let the soup cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on LOW until everything is heated through.
6. Serve and Garnish
Why Use a Slow Cooker for This Recipe?
Using a slow cooker for Chicken Tortilla Soup simplifies the process and enhances the flavors. The low-and-slow cooking method tenderizes the chicken while allowing the spices to infuse every bite. Plus, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days.
Health Benefits of Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. Protein-Packed
The chicken and black beans provide a high-protein base, keeping you full and energized.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Ingredients like corn, tomatoes, and cilantro are loaded with essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
3. Low-Calorie Option
This soup is hearty yet light, making it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Finely Chop the Onion: This ensures the onion cooks evenly and blends into the soup without overpowering it.
- Don’t Skip the Lime Juice: The acidity brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the broth.
- Customize the Heat: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce if you like extra spice.
- Make Your Own Tortilla Strips: Slice tortillas into thin strips, bake or fry until crisp, and use them as a garnish.
What to Serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Bread: Crusty bread or warm cornbread complements the soup beautifully.
- Salad: A side of mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette balances the bold flavors.
- Rice: Serve the soup over a scoop of rice for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~230 |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Sodium | ~550mg |
FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! This soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or storing leftovers.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are slightly richer in flavor and work just as well in this recipe.
4. How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
5. Can I make this vegetarian?
Of course! Swap the chicken for extra beans, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and enjoy a plant-based version.
6. How long does it take to cook on HIGH?
If you’re short on time, cook the soup on HIGH for 3-4 hours instead of 6 hours on LOW.
Conclusion: Warm Up Your Week with Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate combination of flavor, convenience, and nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing meals for the week, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Actionable Tip: Double the recipe and freeze half for those busy nights when you need a delicious, ready-made meal.
It’s time to dust off your slow cooker and start creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. Enjoy! 😊
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Comforting, Flavorful Favorite
Imagine tender, flaky salmon infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs, roasted garlic, and a hint of lemon. Garlic Herb Roasted Salmon is a dish that’s elegant, healthy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients
- 4 portions of salmon fillet (~6 oz each)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4–5 slices of lemon
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mince the garlic and chop the parsley and dill. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create the herb mixture.
- Season the Salmon:
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased baking dish.
- Brush the herb mixture generously over each fillet, ensuring the tops are fully coated.
- Lay thin lemon slices on top of each fillet for added flavor.
- Roast the Salmon:
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. It should flake easily and appear opaque.
- Optional Broiling:
- For a slightly caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the roasted salmon to a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or cilantro.
- Avoid Overcooking: Remove the salmon as soon as it flakes easily to keep it tender.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted asparagus, quinoa, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.