Discover the rich flavors of Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup, a hearty Tex-Mex-inspired dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the world of savory enchilada flavors infused into a comforting soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 to 2 teaspoons chipotle chile in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 15-ounce can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 14.5-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 2 cups frozen corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
Toppings:
- 3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 medium avocado (4 ounces), sliced (optional)
- 6 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream (optional)
Instructions
Prep and Slow Cooker Setup:
- Sauté onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, chipotle chile, chopped cilantro, black beans, diced tomatoes, frozen corn kernels, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Stir to combine well.
- Add chicken: Nestle boneless, skinless chicken breast into the soup mixture in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through.
Final Steps:
- Shred chicken: Remove chicken breast from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional cumin if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the Chicken Enchilada Soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices (if using). Add a dollop of reduced-fat sour cream if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
Cook’s Notes:
- Chicken tenderness: Ensure chicken breasts are fully submerged in the soup mixture to cook evenly and stay tender.
- Spice level: Adjust the amount of chipotle chile in adobo sauce to control the spiciness of the soup.
- Fresh ingredients: For best results, use fresh cilantro and adjust the amount to suit your taste preference.
Variations:
- Vegetarian option: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Increase black beans and corn for added protein.
- Creamy version: Stir in a 1/2 cup of reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy texture.
- Low-carb adaptation: Replace black beans and corn with diced bell peppers and zucchini. Serve with a side of cauliflower rice.
Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb Options:
- Skip the beans and corn: Reduce carbs by omitting black beans and corn or using them sparingly.
- Increase protein: Add more chicken or incorporate additional protein sources like diced bacon or sausage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time as they may require slightly longer to cook through.
Q: How can I make this soup spicier? A: Increase the amount of chipotle chile in adobo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, Chicken Enchilada Soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in a convenient slow-cooked format. With its vibrant colors and satisfying ingredients, this soup is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of Chicken Enchilada Soup, and experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
