High-Protein Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

There’s something cozy about a simmering pot of chicken tortilla soup, especially when it calls for just a few staple ingredients and a trusty crock pot. Did you know that a serving of this dish can pack around 25 grams of protein? Picture a deep, comforting bowl filled to the brim with tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheesy goodness on top, appealing to both your senses and your appetite. This dish not only warms your soul but also delivers nutrition that feels like a hug from the inside out.

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Why This Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Never Fails

When it comes to weeknight dinners, ease and flavor are paramount, and this chicken tortilla soup checks both boxes efficiently. There’s a certain magic in letting the crock pot do all the heavy lifting. Just few minutes of prep, and you can kick back while your slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a sumptuous, satisfying meal. Don’t believe me? Let’s dive into the details and I’ll show you how this dish can become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredient Lineup

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful soup:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 ounce can chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 15.25 ounce can corn, undrained
• 10 ounce can diced tomatoes and green chiles (Rotel), undrained
• 10 ounce can enchilada sauce
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Shredded cheese, for topping
• Crunchy tortilla strips, for topping

Let’s Cook

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 5-quart crock pot. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the top of the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, water, corn, diced tomatoes and green chiles, and enchilada sauce.
4. Sprinkle the mixture with taco seasoning and chili powder, then stir it together gently.
5. Cook the soup on low for 8-10 hours; the longer, the better for flavor absorption.
6. About 15 minutes before serving, shred the chicken with two forks right in the pot and return it to the broth.
7. Cook for an additional 15 minutes.
8. Serve each bowl topped with shredded cheese and crunchy tortilla strips for that perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tip: Shredding the chicken about 15 minutes before serving allows it to soak up more flavors from the broth, making every bite a delightful explosion of taste.

Nutrition Breakdown

This chicken tortilla soup serves approximately 6, and here’s the nutritional recap for a single serving:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbs: 32 grams
• Fat: 9 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams

With a balanced mix of nutrients, this meal supports muscle repair and energy replenishment, making it a fantastic choice for busy families and fitness enthusiasts alike.

How to Serve It Best

Serving this crock pot chicken tortilla soup is as versatile as it is delicious. Ladle the warm, aromatic soup into bowls and let everyone customize their servings with toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Pair it with warm, crusty bread or crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. This dish shines any time of year, but it particularly warms the heart on chilly evenings or busy weeknights.

Keep It Fresh

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely in the crock pot. Transfer the remaining soup to an airtight container and refrigerate; it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freshness Tip: If you freeze the soup, add the toppings afterward to maintain their crispness and flavor.

Expert Tips

1. Temperature Matters: For best results, try to let the soup cook low and slow—this enhances the flavors beautifully.
2. Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh cilantro or a bay leaf during cooking for an extra flavor dimension.
3. Spice Control: Adjust the taco seasoning based on your preferred heat level; a mild version is great for kids, while extra spice can elevate it for adults.
4. Broth Balance: If you like a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more corn to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Garnish Wisely: A dollop of sour cream can help balance the spice levels, adding creaminess.

Flavor Twists

1. Seasonal Twist: Add diced butternut squash for a sweet touch that shines in the autumn months.
2. Gourmet Variation: Swap shredded chicken for shredded pork or beef for a rich, hearty version.
3. Playful Mix-Up: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a nutty twist, or even some fresh lime juice for a totally different zest.

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Overcrowding the Pot: Filling the crock pot too high can lead to undercooked chicken. Stick to the recommended amounts.
2. Neglecting the Chicken: Leaving the chicken whole until the end leads to uneven cooking. Be sure to shred it early for even flavor distribution.
3. Underestimating Seasoning: Make sure to taste your soup before serving; sometimes, a dash of salt or chili powder makes all the difference.
4. Ignoring the Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth is great, but be aware you might need to add more seasoning to enhance flavor.
5. Skipping the Sides: Don’t forget your pairs; they elevate the meal! Serve with a fresh salad or cornbread to fill out your dinner.

What to Do with Leftovers

1. Taco Night: Mash up any leftover soup to create a punchy taco filling—just load it into tortillas and top with your favorite fixings.
2. Soup Enchiladas: Roll the leftover soup in tortillas, top with cheese and enchilada sauce, and bake for a new twist on a classic.
3. Chili Style: Use leftover soup as a hearty base for a chili; just add a few extra beans or vegetables for a nutrition boost.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just throw the frozen chicken directly into the crock pot. It might require additional cooking time, but it’s a great shortcut.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

You can make your own using a mix of cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Adjust the ingredients to your taste!

Can this soup be made with a different meat?

Certainly! Ground beef, shredded pork, or even a vegetarian version with beans work beautifully here.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your broth and ingredients are gluten-free. Always check the labels!