Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Flavorful Delight
Are you ready to transform your meal routine with this delicious and easy slow cooker chicken soup? The Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is your perfect solution for a nutritious and hearty meal that tastes like a restaurant favorite. The best part is, all you need to do is gather the ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Therefore, without further ado, let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe.
Why Choose Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup?
This soup is not just a flavorful delight; it boasts several health benefits as well. The ingredients are carefully selected to enhance the nutritional value. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while tomatoes provide a healthy dose of vitamins A and C. Moreover, the addition of ginger and chili powder adds a kick of antioxidants. Above all, the simplicity of using a slow cooker means less time in the kitchen and more time for you to relax and unwind.
Yield
This recipe yields a satisfying eight servings, ideal for family meals or for preparing in advance to enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients
To make this slow cooker chicken soup, you will need:
- 1 pound shredded, cooked chicken breasts
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, mashed
- 1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green bell 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
- ¼ 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
Instructions for the Best Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Let’s delve into the simple steps to create this delightful slow cooker chicken soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Firstly, gather all your ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken if it’s not already shredded. Then, mash the canned tomatoes slightly. This will help them incorporate better into the soup as they cook.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, mashed tomatoes, enchilada sauce, chopped green bell peppers, chopped onion, minced garlic, water, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Ensure everything is mixed well for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Set your slow cooker to cook on high for 3 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together beautifully, creating a rich and aromatic base.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf and stir in the frozen corn and chopped cilantro. These fresh ingredients add a burst of color and flavor to your slow cooker chicken soup.
Serve Your Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Garnish each bowl of soup with some grated cheddar cheese, avocado slices, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These toppings not only add creaminess and zest but also complement the rich and spicy flavors of the soup perfectly.
Healthier Cooking Options
For a healthier alternative, consider using olive oil instead of vegetable oil. Olive oil has beneficial monounsaturated fats that are heart-healthy. Additionally, using low-sodium chicken broth can further reduce the sodium content, making your soup even healthier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
In conclusion, this Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is quick and easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for deliciously effortless home-cooked meals. In short, it’s not just a dish; it’s a comforting experience. Above all, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
Try it today! Explore more related recipes like the best slow cooker chicken tortilla soup, easy slow cooker chicken tortilla soup, and authentic Mexican chicken tortilla soup recipe. Happy cooking!