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Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This chicken tortilla soup is made by simmering chicken, vegetables, and spices in a slow cooker until tender and flavorful. The final dish has a rich, smoky broth with shredded chicken, softened vegetables, and melted cheese, resulting in a hearty, rustic soup with a slightly thickened consistency and vibrant appearance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken thighs 2 pounds bone-in skinless: Provides Juicy tender shredded meat.
  • Onion 1 large chopped: Adds Savory base flavor.
  • Garlic 3 cloves minced: Enhances Warm aromatic depth.
  • Roasted poblano or anaheim peppers 2 chopped: Adds Smoky mild heat.
  • Diced tomatoes 1 can 14 oz undrained: Creates Tangy soup base.
  • Chicken broth 3 to 3½ cups, adjust for desired consistency: Forms Rich flavorful liquid.
  • Cumin 1 teaspoon: Adds Earthy warmth.
  • Chili powder 1–2 teaspoons, adjust to taste: Provides Mild spice depth.
  • Corn 1 cup: Adds Sweet texture contrast.
  • Lime 1, cut into wedges or juiced: Adds bright fresh acidity to balance the soup
  • Shredded cheese for serving: Adds creamy topping richness
  • Toppings as desired: Adds Fresh crunch and brightness.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker or crockpot.
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Skillet (for roasting peppers if needed).
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Place chicken thighs into slow cooker.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic.
  3. Roast peppers over flame or in oven until charred, then peel and chop before adding.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices.
  5. Add chicken broth to the mixture.
  6. Sprinkle cumin and chili powder evenly.
  7. Stir gently to combine ingredients.
  8. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender and easy to shred.
  9. Add corn during the last stage of cooking.
  10. Remove chicken and shred using forks.
  11. Return shredded chicken to the soup.
  12. Add a squeeze of lime juice at the end to brighten flavors.
  13. Serve hot with cheese and desired toppings.

Notes

For best flavor, roast the peppers ahead of time or use jarred roasted peppers. Adjust spice levels with more chili powder or hot sauce as preferred.