High-Protein Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup

Warm, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup with Salty Lime Chips is the perfect remedy for a chilly evening. Did you know that boneless skinless chicken breast packs a hefty 31 grams of protein per 100 grams? That means not only will your taste buds be satisfied, but your body will love you for the protein boost too. Picture a bowl filled with tender, shredded chicken, smoky chipotle flavor, and a sprinkling of zesty, crunchy tortilla chips—nothing beats it!

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Why This Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup Never Fails

Let’s face it: finding a meal that pleases everyone at the table can feel like an Olympic sport. Enter this chipotle chicken tortilla soup, which has proven to win hearts and stomachs alike. It combines the warmth and spice of classic tortilla soup flavors with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, you’ll love how easily it transforms into a comforting bowl of goodness with just a bit of prep time. Plus, there’s an automatic bonus of leftovers—if there are any!

The Essentials

To whip up this flavor-packed soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
• 2-4 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 2 (14 ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Juice of 2 limes, plus lime zest for serving
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus more for serving
• Sliced avocado, cheddar, and yogurt, for serving
• Salty lime chips

Let’s Cook

1. In the bowl of your crockpot, combine olive oil, onion, garlic, poblano, and chipotle peppers; add smoked paprika, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. 2. Place the chicken on top, pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-5 hours. 3. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir in lime juice and cilantro. 4. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with yogurt, cheese, avocado, cilantro, green onions, and tortilla chips. 5. For the salty lime chips, fry corn tortilla strips in oil until crispy, then sprinkle with lime zest and salt. Serve and enjoy! Pro Tip: For added flavor, let the soup simmer for a bit longer on the “warm” setting after cooking.

Nutrition Breakdown

In a typical serving, this wholesome soup contains roughly 350 calories, 31 grams of protein, 25 grams of carbohydrates, 15 grams of fat, and 5 grams of fiber. The protein from chicken, coupled with dietary fiber from the beans and veggies, makes for a balanced meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. The blend of spices enhances not only the flavor, but also promotes digestion.

How to Serve It Best

This soup is best ladled into deep bowls—just the right vessel for that comforting goodness. Top each with a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of cheese, fresh avocado slices, and a handful of crispy, salty lime chips for that perfect crunch. Serve with a refreshing salad or your favorite chunks of crusty bread to dip. Perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends, it’s a crowd-pleaser any time of year.

How to Store It Right

To keep your soup fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator—ideally, you want to enjoy them within 3-4 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it. In that case, it will be best enjoyed within 2-3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, just pop it in the microwave or stovetop and warm it gently; adding a splash of broth will help bring back that creamy texture.

Pro Tips

1. Use bone-in chicken thighs for an even richer flavor.
2. Add a splash of dairy-free milk or cream before serving for a creamier texture.
3. For spice lovers, toss in some extra chipotle peppers or hot sauce.
4. Don’t forget the lime zest on those tortilla chips—it’s a game-changer!
5. Garnish with pickled red onions for a tangy twist that adds brightness.

Easy Variations

1. Seasonal Twist: During the fall, incorporate roasted butternut squash for a sweet and savory addition.
2. Gourmet Option: Try using a mix of legumes (black beans, chickpeas) in place of chicken for a hearty vegetarian option that still packs a flavor punch.
3. Playful Flavor: Add some cheese-stuffed jalapeños on top for a spicy kick that turns up the fun factor.

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Overcooking: Cooking for too long can dry out your chicken. Quick Fix: Stick to the recommended cooking times—check your crockpot settings.
2. Too Little Spice: Not adding enough chipotle can make the soup bland. Quick Fix: Taste and adjust with additional spices as it cooks.
3. Unbalanced Taste: If it’s too spicy or acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors.
4. Boring Garnishes: Sticking to just cheese may leave it looking one-dimensional. Quick Fix: Use a variety of toppings to visually enhance the dish.
5. Dull Presentation: Not layering flavors in the soup can leave it lackluster. Quick Fix: Incorporate fresh herbs and lime right before serving for vibrancy.

What to Do with Leftovers

1. Taco Night: Use the leftover soup as a filling for tacos; top with cheese and avocado for a fun twist.
2. Quesadilla Filling: Spread any leftover soup between tortillas, sprinkle with cheese, and pan-fry for a cheesy treat.
3. Soup Smoothie: Blend leftovers with some yogurt for a spiced-up soup dip—great for parties!

Curious Cooks Ask

Can I use other meats in this recipe? Absolutely! Pork or turkey can both make delicious substitutes for chicken.

Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, provided that the tortilla chips you use are gluten-free, this soup is inherently gluten-free.

How can I make it vegan? Substitute the chicken with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead.

Can this be made on the stovetop? Yes! Simply simmer in a pot for about 1-1.5 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

With this Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’re just a few simple steps from a bowl of deliciousness that warms the heart. So gather your ingredients, set that slow cooker, and prepare to impress. Enjoy!