Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

There’s something magical about the warm, comforting aroma of a homemade soup wafting through the house, and this Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup does just that. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a touch of spice, it’s the perfect meal to prepare in advance for those busy weeknights or lazy weekend afternoons. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful flavors that come together effortlessly. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe?

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only incredibly easy to make, but it’s also versatile and adaptable to your taste preferences. The slow cooking process ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully, while the ingredients create a hearty and satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking to feed your family or impress guests, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation. Plus, it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

Ingredient Rundown

To make the best Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish; they cook down beautifully and soak up all the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic for added flavor.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
• 2 to 3 cloves minced garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 29 ounces chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, giving it a rich and savory flavor.
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels: Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides warmth and earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a delightful kick.
• 15 ounces black beans: A great source of protein and fiber, making the soup hearty.
• 1 lime, juiced: Brightens up the flavors.
• 10 ounces Rotel Original: Brings in a spicy tomato flavor.
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes: Adds richness and body to the soup.
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced: For those who love a little heat.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.
• ½ cup cilantro, chopped: Freshness that complements the soup.
• 6 corn tortillas, cut into ¼ inch strips: Crispy topping to add texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For frying the tortilla strips until crispy.

What’s in the Gear List

To achieve the perfect Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Crock Pot: The star of the show, allowing for slow and even cooking.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping your veggies and chicken.
• Skillet: To fry the tortilla strips until golden and crispy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing your ingredients.
• Serving bowls: To enjoy your delicious soup!

Mastering Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup: How-To

Now that you have all your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get to the step-by-step process of making this mouthwatering Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Crock Pot

Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic into your crock pot. Add the boneless skinless chicken breasts, chicken broth, frozen corn, ground cumin, chili powder, black beans, lime juice, Rotel, crushed tomatoes, and diced jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Let It Cook

Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the chicken will be.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.

Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients

Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro for that fresh flavor kick.

Step 6: Prepare the Tortilla Strips

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the corn tortilla strips and fry until crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crispy tortilla strips, and garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup!

Seasonal Twists

Feel free to customize your Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup with these seasonal twists:

• Fall: Add diced sweet potatoes for a hearty addition.
• Winter: Toss in some butternut squash for a sweet and creamy texture.
• Spring: Incorporate fresh bell peppers for a pop of color.
• Summer: Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a burst of summer flavor.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is relatively straightforward, here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooked Chicken: Avoid cooking the chicken too long; check for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time.
• Too Watery: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more beans.
• Too Spicy: Adjust the jalapeño and chili powder according to your heat preference.
• Flavorless Soup: Don’t forget to season to taste with salt and pepper before serving!

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to make ahead and store it:

• Make the soup and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
• For best results, add the tortilla strips fresh just before serving.

Common Qs About Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

You could use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even water, but chicken broth provides the best taste.

How can I spice it up further?

If you want more heat, add extra jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even some hot sauce when serving.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead.

Similar Recipes

If you love this Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll also enjoy these dishes:

• Cassies Crockpot Chicken And Noodles
• Instant Pot Chicken Stew
• Chicken Enchilada Pasta Bake

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details for this delightful Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! With just a little prep and the help of your trusty slow cooker, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process, savor the aromas, and most importantly, enjoy every spoonful of your delicious creation!