Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla (Print-Friendly Version)

This slow-cooked chicken soup brings together tender chicken, black beans, and crispy tortilla strips in a vibrant, hearty dish ideal for autumn evenings. Featuring cumin and smoked paprika, it's a comforting meal you'll want this later.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
03 - 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
04 - 1 1/2 cups corn kernels, fresh or thawed from frozen
05 - 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
06 - 1 can (15 ounces) diced fire-roasted tomatoes with green chilis
07 - 3 cups chicken stock

→ Seasonings

08 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon mild chili powder
12 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt

→ For the Tortilla Strips

13 - 4 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
14 - 1 tablespoon avocado oil
15 - A pinch of salt

→ To Finish

16 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

# How to Make It:

01 - In a 6-quart slow cooker, add chicken, diced onion, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, and chicken stock. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
02 - Cover and cook on high for 4 to 5 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours. Do not remove the lid during cooking. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
03 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange tortilla strips on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with avocado oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Toss to coat.
04 - Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the strips are golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool.
05 - Uncover the slow cooker. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and shred with forks or chop into chunks.
06 - Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with the fresh lime juice. Stir well and season with additional salt or lime juice to taste.
07 - Portion soup into bowls and garnish with crispy tortilla strips. Offer garnishes such as diced avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapenos as desired.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - If preferred, substitute crispy tortilla strips with store-bought tortilla chips for convenience.