Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup

Are you looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup. This dish is not only comforting but also packed with protein, fiber, and delicious Mexican flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want a warm bowl of goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and let the magic happen. In just a few hours, you’ll have a scrumptious soup that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup is a winner for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal chopping and measuring, you can have dinner started in under 15 minutes. Just combine everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Secondly, it’s highly customizable. Whether you like it spicy or mild, you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Add extra jalapeños for heat or omit them for a milder flavor.

Another reason to love this recipe is its nutritional value. With shredded chicken, black beans, and corn, you’re getting a well-rounded meal that’s high in protein and fiber, making it satisfying and filling. It’s also versatile; serve it as a main dish or as a starter for a Mexican-themed dinner party. And let’s not forget the toppings! Adding shredded cheese, avocado, and fresh cilantro can elevate this soup to a whole new level. You can even scoop it up with tortilla chips for a fun twist.

Lastly, this soup is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have easy lunches ready to go. Just reheat and enjoy! It also freezes well, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. If you’re looking for a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love, this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup is the recipe for you!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of spices and chicken filling your home. This Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup makes that dream a reality. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying soup that will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you!

For those who are health-conscious, this recipe stands out as a nutritious option. With lean chicken, beans, and vegetables, it provides essential nutrients without unnecessary calories. You can even use low-sodium broth and skip the cheese or sour cream for an even lighter version.

If you’re feeding a crowd, this soup is easily scalable. Simply double or triple the ingredients, and you’ll have enough to feed a large family or a group of friends. It’s also perfect for potlucks or gatherings where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Serve it with a side of warm tortillas or a fresh salad, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love.

Finally, the ingredients are easily accessible. You likely have most of them on hand already, making it a practical choice. No need for specialty items or hours of shopping. Just gather the essentials and let your slow cooker do the work!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips

Additionally, you will need the following utensils for recipe success:

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large mixing spoon
• Chopping knife and cutting board
• Can opener

With these simple ingredients and tools, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!

Detailed Recipe Steps

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup:

1. Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans and corn to remove excess sodium.
2. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Ensure that the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Set the Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will meld together.
4. Cheese Addition: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in half of the shredded cheese until it melts into the soup, adding a creamy texture and flavor.
5. Serve: Once cooked, serve the soup hot. Garnish with the remaining cheese and your choice of optional toppings such as sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

**Pro Tip:** If you like a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher before mixing them in. This will help create a creamier texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce!

FAQs

Conclusion

In summary, this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup is an easy, delicious, and nourishing meal that the whole family will love. With minimal preparation and a slow cooker doing the work, you can enjoy a flavorful dish without the fuss. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch! We hope you give this recipe a try and share your thoughts in the comments. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp and Orzo, and let your culinary adventures continue!