Introduction
Gather around, friends! There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup to warm your soul and fill your belly. This delightful dish is loaded with tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a colorful array of black beans and corn, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and best of all, it cooks itself while you go about your day! So, grab your crockpot, and let’s get started on this flavorful adventure.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tortilla strips
- 1 avocado, diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This is where the magic begins!
- Add in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the rinsed black beans, drained corn, diced onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle over the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Gently stir the ingredients to combine, ensuring that the chicken is nicely submerged in the aromatic liquid.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Once the chicken is ready, shred it using two forks right in the pot and give it a good stir to mix it back into the soup.
- Add the tortilla strips and let them soak in the hearty broth for a few minutes, allowing them to absorb all that delicious flavor.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side for a bright touch.
Notes or Tips
- If you want to add extra heat, consider tossing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- This soup is perfect for meal prep; just store it in airtight containers and reheat when craving a comforting bowl.
- Feel free to customize the toppings with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced radishes for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is all about the slow cooking method, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully throughout the day. The low and slow approach transforms the chicken into tender morsels and enhances the overall taste. Remember to adjust seasoning at the end; a sprinkle of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors even more and elevates every bite!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! Just add an additional hour to the cooking time if using frozen chicken breasts.
- What can I serve with the soup? This soup is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.
- How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hug in a bowl, ready to make your weeknight dinners effortless and delicious. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s no wonder this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy it as comfort food on a chilly evening or serve it at your next gathering for a vibrant and satisfying dish that everyone will love!