Description

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a beloved dish for those seeking comfort with a dash of spice. This recipe, prepared in a Crock Pot, allows for a slow-cooked blend of flavors that only get better with time. The beauty of this soup lies not just in its simplicity, but in how it combines rich ingredients like tender chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and spicy jalapeños, all topped off with crispy tortilla strips. Whether you're craving a cozy meal on a chilly day or looking for something that brings a burst of Mexican-inspired flavors, this Chicken Tortilla Soup delivers in every way.

Ingredients

• 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional for extra heat)
• Salt to taste
• Tortilla strips (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado, lime wedges, and sour cream (optional garnishes)

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Crock Pot by placing chicken breasts at the bottom and adding black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
2. Add diced onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and chopped jalapeño if desired.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred cooked chicken with two forks and return to the soup.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, cilantro, cheese, avocado, lime, and sour cream.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting your spices before adding them to the soup. In a small skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil and add the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes over medium heat, until they become fragrant. This process releases the oils in the spices, enhancing their flavor and giving the soup a deeper, more robust taste.

This Chicken Tortilla Crock Pot Soup is a fantastic go-to recipe for busy weekdays or weekend meal prep. The Crock Pot does all the work, slowly simmering the ingredients to create a hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for the whole family. The combination of tender chicken, spicy jalapeños, and the comforting warmth of tortilla strips makes every spoonful a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply seeking a wholesome, satisfying meal, this soup delivers. Best of all, the versatility of garnishes means that everyone can customize their bowl to suit their taste, making it a dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters.

So, the next time you're looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that doesn't require hours of hands-on cooking, give this Chicken Tortilla Soup a try. It's guaranteed to become a favorite in your household, offering both simplicity and deliciousness in every bite. Enjoy it with a side of warm, crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that leaves you feeling nourished and satisfied.