Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort you on a chilly day, and this Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is the perfect dish to wrap your hands around. With its rich blend of spices, hearty chicken, and a burst of fresh flavors, this soup not only warms the body but also the soul. Plus, the ease of throwing everything into a crockpot makes it a weeknight favorite for busy days. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen, ready to be enjoyed with your family!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the rinsed black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and diced tomatoes with green chilies on top.
- Next, incorporate the corn, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, and pour in the chicken broth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then gently stir to combine all the ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cover and set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the soup for a deliciously cohesive dish.
- Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with crunchy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for an extra zing!
Notes or Tips
This soup is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. For a spicier kick, throw in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and make a fantastic lunch option. And remember, the longer this soup sits, the more the flavors meld together, making it even more delightful!
Cooking Techniques
Crockpot cooking is a fantastic method for achieving tender and flavorful dishes with minimal effort. The slow, even heat allows the ingredients to infuse their flavors wonderfully, creating a rich broth that’s bursting with taste. If you’re short on time, consider browning the chicken and onions in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot for enhanced flavor, but it’s not necessary!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes! You can place frozen chicken breasts directly into the crockpot, but you may need to increase your cooking time slightly.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Can I prepare this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and simply throw them in the crockpot in the morning.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup not only nourishes the body but also brings a sense of comfort and warmth that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, set the crockpot, and let the magic happen as you savor every delightful spoonful of this inviting soup!