Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any occasion. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends, this soup features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy goodness all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s not just delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the crock pot and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy elements creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for lunch or dinner, this soup pairs wonderfully with various sides.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and chicken for a nutritious option.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty soup, making it perfect for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. These essentials will help you create this delicious meal seamlessly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors meld together beautifully over time.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for efficiently prepping vegetables and meats without mess.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate spice measurements for balanced flavor in your soup.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup:

For the Soup

• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 jalapeno (seeded and diced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast
• 3 cups chicken broth (see notes)
• 14 oz crushed tomatoes (half of a 28oz can)
• 1 can black beans (drained)
• 1 can southwest corn (drained)
• 1 can Ro-Tel (not drained)
• 2 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon table salt

For Thickening and Serving

• 2 tablespoon corn starch
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 tablespoon oil (any kind)
• 2/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Mexican cheese (+more for serving)
• cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add the first 12 ingredients—onion, jalapeno, garlic, chicken breast, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, black beans, southwest corn, Ro-Tel, chili powder, ground cumin, and salt—into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

Step 2: Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

When there are about 30 minutes left in cooking time:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of corn starch with ¼ cup of chicken broth.
2. Stir until smooth to create a slurry.
3. Add this mixture back into the soup in the slow cooker and stir well. Allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Tortilla Strips

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tortillas into 1/4 inch strips:
1. Toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of oil until evenly coated.
2. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for about 8–10 minutes until crispy.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

Once cooking is complete:
1. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
2. Return the shredded chicken back into the crock pot.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Mexican cheese until melted and well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle your creamy chicken tortilla soup into bowls. Top each serving with crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro for garnish. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds brightness and flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for a zesty kick.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s texture.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Strips: Add baked tortilla strips for extra crunch and flavor.
• Crushed Tortilla Chips: Sprinkle crushed chips on top for added crunchiness.

Complement with Sides

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the spicy soup.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a filling meal option.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices based on your taste. You can add more chili powder for heat or more cumin for smokiness.
• Bold chicken cooking: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding it; this adds flavor and texture to your soup.
• Bold broth choice: Use homemade chicken broth if possible. It enhances the richness of your soup significantly.
• Bold cream addition: Stir in the heavy cream at the end to maintain its creamy texture without curdling during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving side dishes alongside your soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Guacamole: A creamy dip made from avocados, perfect for complementing the spicy flavors of the soup.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices pairs beautifully with the rich soup.
3. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans serve as a hearty side that adds protein and fiber.
4. Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh veggies balances the richness of the soup.
5. Cheesy Quesadillas: Melted cheese between tortillas creates a delicious dipping option for your soup.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make an excellent appetizer before the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the onions and jalapeños can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take a moment to cook these ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well after cooking, it won’t distribute evenly in the soup. Use two forks for effective shredding.
• Ignoring the Cornstarch Slurry: Forgetting to add the cornstarch slurry can result in a thin soup. Mix it with broth before adding it back into the crockpot for a creamy texture.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise taste. Use fresh spices and quality chicken for the best results.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking for too long or too short can alter texture and flavor. Stick to the recommended cooking times for optimal results.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days.
• Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful blend of chicken, spices, and vegetables cooked slowly for a deliciously creamy texture.

Can I use other proteins in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or lamb if desired. Adjust cooking time as needed based on protein choice.

How do I make this soup spicier?

To increase spice levels, add more jalapeños or include extra chili powder. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Common toppings include avocado, sour cream, or additional cheese. Fresh cilantro adds great flavor as well!

Conclusion

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or even swap proteins based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!

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