Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

As the weather cools down, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, yummy bowl of soup. This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for busy families looking for a budget friendly meal. 15 minutes to prep, you’ll have a warm meal for the family when you’re home from your day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional topping)
• Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, and all the spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir to combine.
2. Add the Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and give it another quick stir. Drop in the bay leaf.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the breasts from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred them. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
5. Add Lime Juice: Stir in the fresh lime juice for a burst of brightness.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, and tortilla strips or crushed chips.

Here are some excellent beverage pairings for your Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup. These beverage options will create a harmonious dining experience, complementing the flavors and adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your Chicken Tortilla Soup.

1. Citrusy Margaritas

A classic margarita (made with tequila, lime juice, and a splash of orange liqueur) is a perfect pairing. The zesty citrus and the subtle sweetness balance the soup’s spiciness, while the tequila adds a nice warmth.

2. Iced Tea (Sweet or Unsweetened)

Iced tea (whether sweetened or unsweetened) provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup. You can also infuse it with lime, lemon, or even mint for extra flavor.

3. Lime or Lemon Sparkling Water

For a lighter, non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with fresh lime or lemon. It’s a great way to keep things crisp and refreshing without overshadowing the flavors of the soup.

4. Light Beer (Mexican Style or Lager)

Mexican beers like Corona, Pacifico, or a light lager work wonderfully with Chicken Tortilla Soup. The crisp and clean taste of these beers helps balance the richness of the soup, and the lime wedge adds a nice touch.

5. White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)

A dry, crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay works well with this dish. The acidity of these wines complements the lime and cilantro in the soup, while the flavors don’t overpower the meal.

6. Citrus-Infused Sparkling Lemonade

A sparkling lemonade made with fresh lemon juice and a hint of lime is a delicious, tart, and slightly sweet non-alcoholic option that enhances the flavors of the soup.

7. Pineapple or Mango Juice

If you prefer a sweeter beverage, try pineapple or mango juice. These tropical juices bring a fruity sweetness that balances out the heat of the soup.

8. Cucumber and Mint Water

For something more subtle, cucumber-mint water offers a refreshing, light pairing. The coolness of the cucumber and the crispness of the mint enhance the freshness of the soup.