Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 cup Pace Picante Sauce; 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) condensed cream of chicken soup; 1 can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles; 1 can (15 ounces) black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 ½ cups canned or frozen corn; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Corn tortillas; Shredded cheddar cheese

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Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that brings the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine right to your table. This soup is not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, cozy gatherings, or any occasion that calls for comfort food. With its rich combination of spices, tender chicken, and fresh toppings, this soup will soon become a favorite in your household.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, letting you throw everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner.
Flavor Packed: The blend of Pace Picante Sauce and spices delivers a deliciously rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile: You can easily customize this soup with your favorite toppings or by adding vegetables based on your preferences.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.
Great for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge and can be frozen, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking your Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

6-quart slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

6-quart slow cooker: The heart of this recipe, allowing you to cook all ingredients evenly over several hours for maximum flavor.
Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting chicken breasts and vegetables easy and safe.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for all ingredients, which is crucial for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is full of Tex-Mex flavor and is wonderfully filling and satisfying.

Main Ingredients

1 cup Pace Picante Sauce
2 (10.5-ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1 can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles
1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 1/2 cups canned or frozen corn
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 1/3 cups water

Protein and Toppings

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half)
4 corn tortillas (cut into strips)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
sour cream and olives for serving (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by stirring together the first eight ingredients in your 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Chicken

Add the cut chicken breasts into the mixture. Spoon some of the sauce over them to ensure they are submerged well.

Step 3: Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on LOW heat. Let it cook for about 4 hours.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the pot.

Step 5: Add Tortillas and Cheese

Add the cut corn tortillas and shredded cheddar cheese to the soup. Stir everything together. Cover again and cook on LOW for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy with optional toppings like sour cream or olives!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that can be customized with various toppings. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Toppings

Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and color.
Sliced Olives – Black olives provide a salty contrast that complements the soup.
Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors.

Accompaniments

Cornbread – Soft, warm cornbread pairs perfectly with the soup’s Tex-Mex flavors.
Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips can be served on the side for dipping or crushed on top.
Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and texture to each spoonful.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup, consider these helpful tips.

Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken can elevate the flavor significantly.
Adjust Spice Levels – Modify the amount of hot sauce and cumin based on your heat preference.
Cook Low and Slow – Cooking on low for the full time ensures tender chicken and melded flavors.
Add Extra Veggies – For added nutrition, consider including bell peppers or zucchini in the mix.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice flavored with spices complements the soup beautifully.
Guacamole – Creamy guacamole brings richness and freshness to your plate.
Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa adds brightness and crunch alongside the soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Melty cheese sandwiches are a comforting addition for dipping.
Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas make for a filling side that kids love.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Sweet corn topped with cheese and spices offers a delightful contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid to ensure your soup turns out perfect.

Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can ruin the flavor. Always choose fresh or high-quality canned items for the best taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Follow the recommended cooking time and check for doneness.
Skipping seasoning adjustments: Every palate is different. Taste the soup before serving and adjust spices or salt as needed.
Not shredding chicken properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well, it may not mix evenly with other ingredients. Use two forks for best results.
Neglecting toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t skip them! Serve with sour cream, olives, or extra cilantro for a delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions often asked about Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup that might help you with your cooking journey.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, make sure they are fully cooked before shredding.

What can I add to my Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup?

You can customize your soup by adding bell peppers, jalapeños, or even avocado for extra flavor.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can add more corn or blend part of the soup and stir it back in.

Is Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup spicy?

The spice level depends on the type of salsa and hot sauce used. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a perfect blend of comfort and flavor. It’s versatile enough to allow many customization options like adding different veggies or beans. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!