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

Prepare the Crock Pot: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (including the juice), and chicken broth.
Flavor the Soup: Add the diced onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and black pepper. If you enjoy a bit of heat, now is the time to add in the chopped jalapeño.
Cook Slowly: Cover the Crock Pot and cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the Crock Pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup, stirring to combine.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the soup hot, topped with crunchy tortilla strips. For extra flavor and texture, you can add fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of 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.