Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Soup: A Family Favorite

Introduction

Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Soup that completely transformed our family dinner routine. With its delightful combination of flavors and easy preparation, this dish quickly became a household favorite. The moment I set the slow cooker in motion, my kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma that made everyone eager to dig in. When we finally sat down to enjoy it, the creamy texture, the zing of the salsa, and the tender chicken pieces left us all satisfied. My kids couldn’t get enough of it, and my husband praised me for finding such a simple yet delicious meal. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a kitchen superstar, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large poblano chile pepper, chopped
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons Simply Salsa™ Mix
• 1 tablespoon Onion Onion™ Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Garlic Garlic™ Seasoning
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
• ½ cup half & half
• 1 medium zucchini, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, chopped poblano pepper, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, Simply Salsa Mix, Onion Onion Seasoning, and Garlic Garlic Seasoning.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours. This slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become incredibly tender.
3. Shred Chicken: After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and then return it to the pot.
4. Add Creaminess: Stir in the cubed cream cheese, half & half, cubed zucchini, and shredded Cheddar cheese. This step adds a rich and creamy texture to the soup that is simply irresistible.
5. Finish Cooking: Continue cooking on LOW for an additional 20-30 minutes until the soup is hot and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. The cilantro adds a fresh touch and a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400 (this may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used)

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours (includes cooking time)

How to Serve

• Serving Suggestions:
• Serve the soup warm in individual bowls.
• Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added freshness.
• Offer a sprinkle of additional shredded Cheddar cheese on top if desired.
• Pair with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the poblano pepper before chopping. Alternatively, add a diced jalapeño for an extra kick.
2. Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese and half & half with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream cheese to make this soup dairy-free.
3. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or beans for added nutrition and texture.
4. Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. Just add it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through.
5. Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cream cheese and other ingredients.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Salsa Chicken Soup: Use spicy salsa or add diced chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with a mix of beans (black beans, kidney beans) and additional vegetables for a hearty vegetarian soup.
• Taco Soup: Incorporate taco seasoning instead of the Simply Salsa Mix for a different flavor profile.
• Creamy Tomato Soup Base: For a twist, use a tomato soup base instead of diced tomatoes and adjust the broth accordingly.
• Instant Pot Version: If you’re short on time, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then shred the chicken and stir in the creamy ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

• Complete Meal: Pair with a green salad and crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
• Snack Time: Serve smaller portions in cups as a delicious appetizer for parties or gatherings.
• Toppings Bar: Create a toppings bar with avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips, and jalapeños to let everyone customize their bowls.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

• Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as all ingredients, like the seasonings, are gluten-free.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?

• Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added spice.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?

• Reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

5. Can I use homemade salsa instead of Simply Salsa Mix?

• Yes, homemade salsa can be a great substitute. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.

6. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

• You can make this soup on the stovetop. Just simmer all the ingredients in a large pot for about 1-2 hours until the chicken is cooked through.

7. How can I make it spicier?

• You can add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa to increase the heat level.

8. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

• Yes, replace the chicken with beans or tofu and add extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.

9. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

• Yes, substitute the cream cheese and half & half with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

10. How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?

• Adding lime juice and fresh cilantro before serving can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Soup is more than just a comforting dish; it’s a meal that brings family together around the dinner table. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and the convenience of the slow cooker, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite toppings, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family with this delightful meal!

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