Welcome to this delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup! This flavorful soup is the perfect blend of zesty spices and tender chicken, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup has you covered.
Introduction
The Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a beloved classic in Tex-Mex cuisine, merging vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients. This recipe brings together the rich taste of enchilada sauce, tender shredded chicken, and a medley of spices, topped with crispy tortilla chips and a variety of garnishes. Originating from the southwestern United States, it’s a comforting and heartwarming dish that anyone can enjoy. With minimal prep time and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for busy days. Plus, the addition of mango salsa and avocado takes this Tex-Mex soup to a new level of deliciousness.
Ingredients for Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Here’s a complete list of the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup. Feel free to make substitutions as needed to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2-3 teaspoons taco seasoning
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups red enchilada sauce
- 3-4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1-2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Optional toppings: Yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, avocado, mango salsa, and green onion
Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option: Swap yogurt for dairy-free yogurt alternatives.
- Low-carb: Skip the rice and add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Gluten-free: Ensure that your taco seasoning and broth are certified gluten-free.
How to Make Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot Ingredients
Layer the diced onion, chopped jalapeños, and minced garlic at the bottom of your crockpot. Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top. Sprinkle the cumin, taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
Step 2: Add the Liquid Ingredients
Pour the red enchilada sauce and chicken broth over the chicken and seasonings. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged. This will help to infuse all the flavors as it cooks.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule. For the best flavor, low and slow is ideal.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. Shredding helps to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the soup.
Step 5: Final Touches
Stir in the cooked rice, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla chips, shredded cheddar cheese, avocado slices, a dollop of yogurt, and any other desired toppings.
Helpful Tips for Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, jalapeños, and lime juice can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Don’t skip the lime juice: Adding lime at the end brightens the overall taste.
- Customize the heat level: If you prefer a milder soup, use only one jalapeño or swap with mild green chilies.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Brown the chicken first: If you have a few extra minutes, brown the chicken in a pan before adding it to the crockpot. This step will add depth to the flavor.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk before serving for a richer texture.
- Add extra vegetables: Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini can be added to increase the vegetable content and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup pairs wonderfully with:
- Mexican cornbread for a hearty side.
- A fresh green salad with avocado and citrus dressing.
- A cold mango iced tea or a classic margarita to complement the zesty flavors.
Nutritional Information
This dish is packed with protein, moderate carbs, and plenty of vitamins. It’s a wholesome meal that can be customized to be as light or hearty as desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 281 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fats: 11 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sodium: 760 mg
- Vitamin C: 18% of the daily value
Storage and Leftovers for Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Q1: Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the onions and spices, then add the chicken and liquids. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then shred the chicken.
Q2: How can I make it vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with a can of black beans and a cup of diced sweet potatoes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q3: What are some low-carb options?
You can replace the rice with cauliflower rice or skip it altogether for a lower-carb meal.
Q4: Can I add corn to this soup?
Absolutely! Corn adds sweetness and color. Add 1 cup of frozen corn when you stir in the rice and cilantro.
Related Recipes for Spicy Soup Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread
: A hearty dish featuring layers of seasoned meat and veggies topped with a fluffy cornbread crust.
- Louisiana Voodoo Fries
: Crispy fries smothered in a creamy, spicy sauce — perfect for pairing with this soup!
Conclusion
Give this Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup a try and let its warm, spicy flavors comfort you. Don’t forget to share your variations and any special toppings you love to add! Enjoy this cozy soup, and happy cooking!
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Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup – Easy, Flavorful Recipe
Description
Welcome to this delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup! This flavorful soup is the perfect blend of zesty spices and tender chicken, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup has you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2–3 teaspoons taco seasoning
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups red enchilada sauce
- 3–4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1–2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Optional toppings: Yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, avocado, mango salsa, and green onion
Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option: Swap yogurt for dairy-free yogurt alternatives.
- Low-carb: Skip the rice and add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Gluten-free: Ensure that your taco seasoning and broth are certified gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot Ingredients
Layer the diced onion, chopped jalapeños, and minced garlic at the bottom of your crockpot. Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top. Sprinkle the cumin, taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
Step 2: Add the Liquid Ingredients
Pour the red enchilada sauce and chicken broth over the chicken and seasonings. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged. This will help to infuse all the flavors as it cooks.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule. For the best flavor, low and slow is ideal.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. Shredding helps to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the soup.
Step 5: Final Touches
Stir in the cooked rice, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla chips, shredded cheddar cheese, avocado slices, a dollop of yogurt, and any other desired toppings.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, jalapeños, and lime juice can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Don’t skip the lime juice: Adding lime at the end brightens the overall taste.
- Customize the heat level: If you prefer a milder soup, use only one jalapeño or swap with mild green chilies.
