Pioneer Woman Chicken Tortilla Soup Crock Pot: Your Go-To Family Meal

Chicken tortilla soup is a beloved dish for its warm, comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Imagine the robust taste of a chicken tortilla, but in a hearty, satisfying soup. This crock pot version takes all the fuss out of cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. If you’re searching for a simple yet flavorful meal that the whole family will devour, look no further than this Pioneer Woman Chicken Tortilla Soup Crock Pot recipe. It’s about to become your new kitchen staple.

Bowls of Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup garnished with parsley, spoons on the side, suggesting a cozy and inviting meal

Unlocking Flavor: What Makes This Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Special?

This isn’t just any chicken tortilla soup recipe; it’s designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfectly embodying the spirit of easy, home-style cooking that the Pioneer Woman is known for. The beauty of using a crock pot, or slow cooker, is that it allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully over time, creating a depth of flavor you just can’t achieve with quick stovetop methods. Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you – most are pantry staples, and the prep work is incredibly quick, clocking in at just 5-10 minutes. Imagine throwing everything into your crock pot in the morning before work, and returning home to the irresistible aroma of a ready-to-eat, home-cooked meal. That’s the magic of this pioneer woman chicken tortilla soup crock pot recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s answer some common questions to ensure you have all the information you need to make this soup perfectly.

What are the key ingredients in chicken tortilla soup?

The foundation of chicken tortilla soup is typically built on shredded chicken and chicken broth. To achieve that signature tortilla soup flavor, you’ll find ingredients like taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) are essential. Many recipes, including this pioneer woman chicken tortilla soup crock pot version, also incorporate aromatics like garlic and onion, and vegetables like corn to enhance the overall taste and texture.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tortilla soup?

Chicken tortilla soup is quite satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Cornbread is a classic and comforting choice. A fresh side salad can also provide a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

Can I add beans to my crock pot chicken tortilla soup?

Absolutely! Beans are a fantastic addition to chicken tortilla soup, adding both texture and nutritional value. Black beans and pinto beans are particularly popular choices and complement the other flavors in this pioneer woman chicken tortilla soup crock pot recipe beautifully.

What are the best toppings for chicken tortilla soup?

Toppings are where you can really personalize your bowl of chicken tortilla soup! Shredded cheese and crispy tortilla strips are must-haves for that authentic tortilla soup experience. Other delicious topping ideas include creamy avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Is it possible to make vegetarian or vegan chicken tortilla soup in a crock pot?

Yes, with a few simple swaps, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarian or vegan diets. To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. For a vegan version, in addition to removing the chicken and using vegetable broth, you’ll also need to skip the cheese topping or opt for a vegan cheese alternative. Consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or squash to maintain heartiness and flavor in your vegetarian or vegan pioneer woman chicken tortilla soup crock pot.

Can I freeze chicken tortilla soup for later?

Yes, chicken tortilla soup freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer-safe zip-top bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Close-up of a white bowl filled with The Best Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, garnished with fresh parsley, highlighting the soup's appetizing appearance

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pioneer Woman Chicken Tortilla Soup Crock Pot

(For the detailed recipe card, see below)

Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients you’ll gather for this flavorful soup:

Chicken Breasts: The protein base of our soup.
Onion & Garlic: Aromatic foundations for building flavor.
Chicken Broth & Water: The liquid base, broth adds richness.
Corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (Rotel): For a touch of heat and acidity.
Enchilada Sauce: Key to that distinct tortilla soup taste.
Taco Seasoning & Chili Powder: Spice blend for authentic flavor.
Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Shredded Cheese & Crunchy Tortilla Strips: For topping and serving.

Ingredient layflat of chicken breasts, onion, garlic, chicken broth, water, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, chili powder, showcasing the fresh and flavorful components

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your Pioneer Woman Chicken Tortilla Soup in a Crock Pot

Making this pioneer woman chicken tortilla soup crock pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

Layer Ingredients: Place chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Add diced onions and minced garlic.
Pour Liquids and Add Seasonings: Pour in chicken broth and water. Then, add corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and enchilada sauce. Sprinkle taco seasoning and chili powder over the top.
Slow Cook: Stir everything together well. Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Shred Chicken: About 10-15 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot. They should be very tender and easy to shred with two forks.
Return Chicken and Finish Cooking: Shred the chicken and return it to the crock pot. Stir it back into the soup.
Final Simmer: Let the soup cook for another 15 minutes to allow the shredded chicken to absorb the flavors.
Serve and Enjoy! Ladle the pioneer woman chicken tortilla soup crock pot into bowls and top with shredded cheese and crunchy tortilla strips, or your favorite toppings.

Raw chicken, enchilada sauce, seasoning, and diced onions being stirred in a crock pot, illustrating the initial steps of layering and combining ingredients

Shredded chicken being added back into the crock pot with the soup liquid, demonstrating the step of incorporating the shredded chicken before the final simmer

Overhead shot of a small white bowl of Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, topped with shredded cheese and tortilla strips, showcasing the final delicious and garnished soup

Craving More Easy Recipes?

This pioneer woman chicken tortilla soup crock pot is just the beginning! Explore more simple and delicious recipes perfect for busy lives and family meals.

Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe (+Video)

This is truly the best Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup! It’s incredibly easy to prepare and always a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful flavors of chicken tortilla in a comforting soup!

Jump to Recipe

Print Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Total Time: 8-10 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Author: Brandie @ The Country Cook

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
15 ounce can chicken broth
1 cup water
15 ounce can corn, undrained
15 ounce can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
11 ounce can enchilada sauce
1 packet taco seasoning
½ teaspoon chili powder
For topping: Shredded cheese, crunchy tortilla strips

Instructions

Place chicken breasts in the bottom of a 5-quart crock pot.
Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Add diced onion and minced garlic.
Pour in chicken broth, water, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), and enchilada sauce.
Sprinkle with taco seasoning and chili powder; stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
15 minutes before serving, remove chicken, shred with forks, and return to pot.
Stir and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and tortilla strips.

Video

Watch a video tutorial here

Recipe Notes

Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, crispy tortilla strips, avocado, or cilantro.
Feel free to add beans such as black beans or pinto beans.

Course: Soup
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Nutritional Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate. Calorie and nutritional values may vary based on brands used. For accurate counts, use an online nutritional calculator.

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