38g Protein Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup

When it comes to a soul-warming bowl of goodness, few things can compete with a hearty soup that’s not only bursting with flavor but also packs a nutritional punch. Today, we’re diving into a vibrant and spicy Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup with Salty Lime Chips. Did you know that one serving of this delectable dish offers around 38 grams of protein? As the savory aroma wafts through your kitchen, you’ll be enveloped in the delightful scents of cumin and roasted tomatoes, readying you for a comforting feast. Let’s get cooking!

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Why This Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup Never Fails

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as reliable as it is crowd-pleasing, this chipotle chicken tortilla soup is a slam dunk. Not only is it a breeze to whip up—thanks to the hands-off convenience of the slow cooker—but it also rewards you with rich flavors and a satisfying texture that just begs to be enjoyed. Fresh toppings of avocado, cheese, and crispy lime chips take it over the top, turning ordinary soup night into a fiesta. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prepping, this soup adapts beautifully to various tastes and preferences.

Ingredient Lineup

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for sautéing.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped, providing essential flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated, adding depth to the dish.
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped, for a mild heat.
• 2-4 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder) for that smoky kick.
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavors.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin, a must for earthy warmth.
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast for a protein boost.
• 2 (14 ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes for acidity and sweetness.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, rich and hearty base.
• Juice of 2 limes, plus lime zest for serving to brighten flavors.
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for freshness.
• Extra cilantro for serving, because you can never have too much.
• Sliced avocado, cheddar, and yogurt for serving, for the ultimate creamy finish.
• Salty lime chips that provide the perfect crunch.

Let’s Cook

Ready to savor every step? Let’s dive into the cooking method:

1. In the bowl of your crockpot, combine the olive oil, onion, garlic, poblano peppers, chipotle peppers, paprika, cumin, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Add the chicken and carefully stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, ensuring everything’s well mixed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect balance.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Pro tip: the longer you cook this, the more the flavors meld beautifully.
5. When done, shred the chicken right in the broth using two forks for a tender, fall-apart texture.
6. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro for a fresh and vibrant finish.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top, as desired, with yogurt/sour cream, cheese, avocado, cilantro, green onions, and tortilla chips. Zest a lime over each bowl for that zestiness that ties it all together. Eat and enjoy!

Healthy Reasons to Love This

Each serving of this Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup is packed with:

• Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups
• Calories: Approximately 380
• Protein: 38 grams
• Carbohydrates: 28 grams
• Fat: 12 grams
• Fiber: 6 grams

This soup is not just a delicious meal but also a balanced option that provides a good amount of protein and fiber, thanks to the chicken and beans, keeping you full and satisfied.

Table-Ready in Minutes

Serving this tortilla soup is a breeze and opens the door to a world of culinary creativity. Serve it alongside warm corn tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for that delightful crunch. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or game day parties. Drizzle a little extra lime juice and sprinkle fresh cilantro just before serving to brighten up the whole dish.

How to Store It Right

Storing this savory soup is straightforward. You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months. For optimal reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot. One tip: add a splash of fresh broth or a little water while reheating to retain that creamy consistency.

Expert Tips

Here are some pro notes to elevate your soup game:

• To add a layer of richness, try incorporating a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving.
• For more texture, consider adding black beans or corn during the last hour of cooking.
• Adjust the spice level by varying the number of chipotle peppers; start low and add more for heat lovers.
• Using homemade broth can make it even more flavorful; if you have the time, it’s worth the effort.
• Serve with lime wedges on the side for personalization at the table.

Seasonal Twists

Want to shake things up? Here are a few fun variations:

• Seasonal: In fall, swap out poblano for roasted butternut squash to add a sweet, nutty flavor.
• Gourmet: For a more upscale twist, add a dollop of truffle-infused oil or top with crispy shallots.
• Playful: Use nacho cheese sauce in place of the cheddar for an indulgent, cheesy treat!

Learn from My Mistakes

Here are a few common errors and how to avoid them:

• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken to the point where it becomes dry. Fix: Monitor cooking time closely, especially if you’re on high heat.
• Mistake: Not enough seasoning leading to bland soup. Fix: Taste and adjust seasonings while cooking; remember, you can always add more.
• Mistake: Forgetting to add acid (like lime juice) at the end. Fix: A splash of acidity can elevate all flavors, don’t skip it!
• Mistake: Using regular canned tomatoes instead of fire-roasted. Fix: Fire-roasted tomatoes enhance the smoky flavor, so seek them out!
• Mistake: Not shredding the chicken before serving. Fix: Ensure the chicken is well-shredded before ladling it into bowls for proper distribution in every bite.

What to Do with Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover soup, consider these inventive uses:

• Chili Reinvented: Use the soup as a base for a chili by adding kidney or black beans and letting it simmer together.
• Taco Filling: Temper the soup, then fill soft tortillas with the thickened mixture for a delicious taco night twist.
• Casserole Magic: Mix leftover soup with cooked rice or quinoa, top with cheese, and bake for a hearty casserole.

Quick Questions

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Absolutely! Just portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat for a quick meal!

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more chipotle peppers in adobo or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce before serving.

What can I substitute for tortillas?

You can use crispy tortilla chips, baked pita chips, or even corn chips as a crunchy topping.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep all the flavors intact while boosting fiber.

Get those slow cookers ready, and let this glorious soup fill your home with warmth and flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how blissfully happy it makes your taste buds! Enjoy!