This super comforting Quick and Easy Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken Soup comes together in about 30 minutes and is a dump-and-go, hands-off meal that your family will love! Switch up the protein chicken, beef, or even beans to suit your taste or use it as a ‘clean out the fridge’ meal to get rid of leftovers and odds and ends. Seriously, when you’re juggling after-school activities, work, and dinner, this recipe is a lifesaver for those busy weeknight dinners!
Ingredients Breakdown
Chicken Breasts
You’ll need 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-2 inch cubes. Chicken is the perfect base here, adding a lovely texture and protein-packed goodness. I prefer using fresh chicken, but you can also go for frozen, just make sure to adjust the cooking time. Just toss it in and let that slow cooker work its magic!
Onion
Using 1/2 cup diced onion gives your soup a solid flavor base. Onions are like the team captains of flavor in cooking! I usually prefer yellow onions for their sweetness, but white or red will work too. If you’re in a pinch, you can throw in some onion powder.
Garlic
Can’t forget 1 clove minced garlic! Garlic is basically the superstar of every kitchen, right? It adds that incredible aromatic quality. I highly recommend fresh garlic for this, but if you’re out, a teaspoon of garlic powder can step in just fine!
Black Beans
We’ll add in 15 ounces canned black beans, rinsed and drained. They not only make your soup hearty but also add fiber and protein! You can swap these for pinto beans or even chickpeas if that’s what you have laying around.
Kidney Beans
Next up, toss in 15 ounces canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained as well. Their slightly sweet flavor perfectly balances with the spices. You can easily switch these out for more black beans or any beans you have on hand.
Diced Green Chili Peppers
We want 4 1/2 ounces canned diced green chili peppers for that zing! The slight heat really amps up the flavor profile. If you like it spicier, diced jalapeños would be a fantastic substitute!
Diced Tomatoes
Add 14 1/2 ounces canned diced tomatoes (juice included) for that juicy tomato goodness. They keep the soup nice and saucy. If you want to switch it up, a can of fire-roasted tomatoes or even homemade tomato sauce could work wonderfully.
Chicken Broth
You’ll also need 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth to bring everything together. It’s the comforting liquid that rounds out the flavors. Feel free to switch it out for vegetable broth or homemade stock for a vegetarian version!
Corn
For a sweet pop, toss in 1 cup frozen or fresh corn. I prefer frozen corn for this recipe, it’s super easy to throw in! Seriously, just grab a handful and toss it in there.
Spices
Now, let’s spice things up! You’ll need the following:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder for that signature fiesta flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin for a warm, earthy undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste, my friend! I like it spicy, but you do you.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and salt to taste. I usually finish with a couple of pinches and adjust as needed.
Lime Juice
Lastly, don’t skip on the juice of 1 lime! It brightens everything and brings those flavors to life. Fresh lime is best, but bottled lime juice will work in a pinch.
Fresh Cilantro
For finishing touches, I love using 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro. It adds a fresh flavor that’s just amazing. If you’re not a cilantro fan (I get it, not everyone is), parsley or even green onions could give a beautiful finish too!
How to Make Quick and Easy Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken Soup
Combine All Ingredients: Toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker. No need to sauté anything here, just stir to mix! If you’re cooking on high, you can adjust the seasonings and taste at the end.
Set & Forget: Cover and set it to low. Now, that’s the beauty of slow cooking it’ll sweat and merge those flavors beautifully for 6-8 hours. During this time, your house is going to smell like heaven!
Shred the Chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, if you want shredded chicken (which I totally recommend), just shred the chicken in the slow cooker with two forks. Give it a good stir, then squeeze in that lime juice. Oh man, the flavors really pop then!
Serve & Garnish: When ready, scoop into bowls and top with freshly chopped cilantro. You could even add some avocado, cheese, or crunchy tortilla strips if you’re feeling fancy!
Why I Love This Recipe
This is my go-to recipe when I’m feeling a little lazy but still want something warm and cozy on the table. Honestly? You can just toss everything in and forget about it! It’s comfort food at its best packed with so much flavor and so versatile. I’m a real sucker for recipes that help clean out the fridge, and this wins every time. Trust me, you’re going to want seconds… or thirds!
If you loved this soup, be sure to check out my Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup, my Creamy Vegetable Soup, or my Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This soup comes together all in one pot and is ready for you when you get home. Minimal prep and cleanup mean you can save that time for what really matters, like family time!
Customizable
Feeling like a meatless dish? Go for beans only. Want it spicier? Just add more chili powder or jalapeños. The world is your oyster, and you can use whatever ingredients you have.
Crowd-Pleaser
The whole family will love it kids, picky eaters, spouses… you name it. It’s hard to go wrong with a flavorful, filling soup like this, and I’m telling you, it’s even better as leftovers!
Budget-Friendly
Using affordable, everyday ingredients means you won’t break the bank. Plus, it really stretches if you’re feeding a crowd. Just wow!
Make-Ahead Friendly
Making it on the weekends for a cozy weekday dinner? Yes, please. The flavors develop even more overnight, so it’ll taste even better the next day.
Serving and Storage Tips
What to Serve with This
This slow cooker fiesta chicken soup is delightful on its own, but you could pair it with:
- Cornbread for a perfect sweet-salty contrast
- Tortilla chips for some crunch
- Avocado slices or toppings like cheese and sour cream!
Storage
Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, simply pour into a saucepan over medium heat and stir until warmed through. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a little more chicken broth to loosen it up. You can also pop it in the microwave if you’re in a rush, just ensure to cover your bowl!
Freezer Friendly?
Absolutely! This soup is great for freezing. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as mentioned before!
Final Little Notes
I just can’t stress how good the leftovers are. Seriously, you’ll find yourself craving it!
This Quick and Easy Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken Soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s packed with tons of flavor and oh-so-simple, making it a weeknight win every time. Happy cooking, amigos!
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