Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, and when it comes to my go-to favorites, Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup takes the top spot. I still remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafted through my home, drawing in my family like moths to a flame. It was one of those chilly evenings when a hearty meal is not just wanted but needed. The combination of tender chicken, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese melds together to create a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. This soup has become a staple in our household, especially during the winter months when everyone wants something warm and delicious to come home to.

What to Gather for Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup

When making Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup, the ingredients play a key role in creating that comforting and rich flavor profile. The combination of ingredients complements each other beautifully, with fresh vegetables, spices, and creamy cheese all working in harmony. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this heartwarming dish:

• 8 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and depth to the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic: For aromatic flavor and a savory kick.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup, giving it a creamy texture.
• 4 cups slow-sodium chicken broth: Serves as the base for the soup, infusing it with flavor.
• 4 teaspoons chili powder: Offers a warm, spicy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds a nutty, earthy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Necessary for seasoning.
• Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for a bit of heat.
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein in this dish.
• 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds a zesty, flavorful component.
• 1 medium fresh jalapeño pepper: For heat—add more for spiciness!
• 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese: For creaminess and richness.
• Tortilla chips: For serving, providing a crunchy texture.
• Fresh cilantro: Optional garnish for freshness.

How to Prepare Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup

Making Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup is a straightforward process that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

1. Begin by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. As it melts, the rich aroma fills the kitchen, setting the stage for the delicious soup to come. Once melted, add the garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and light golden brown, about 1 minute. This will create a wonderful base of flavor.

2. Next, stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute. This will create a roux, which helps to thicken the soup. You want to see it bubbling slightly but not browning.

3. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, increasing the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. As you whisk, look for a smooth and thickening consistency. This should take several minutes. Once it’s thickened, remove the saucepan from heat.

4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. The colors of the spices will brighten the mixture, and the aroma will become even more enticing. Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper.

5. In a large slow cooker, place the chicken breasts. Pour the diced tomatoes with green chilies and jalapeño over the top. Finally, pour the sauce you just prepared over everything. This layering of ingredients allows the chicken to soak up all the flavors.

6. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW. Let it cook for 4 to 6 hours. As it cooks, the chicken will become tender and infuse the soup with its flavor. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken easily shreds with a fork.

7. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board. Before shredding, stir the cheese into the slow cooker and cover it. This will help the cheese melt evenly and create a creamy texture.

8. Once the cheese is melted, shred the chicken and stir it back into the slow cooker. The combination of textures will make each bowl irresistible.

9. Cover the slow cooker again and let everything cook for an additional 15 minutes. This will ensure that all the ingredients are heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.

10. To serve, crush some tortilla chips into a bowl and ladle the soup over the top. For a pop of freshness, garnish with extra cheese and cilantro if desired. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!

Change It Up

One of the best parts about cooking is making it your own. Here are some ideas to change up your Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Place it in freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to two months.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of cornbread for a classic pairing.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a meatless option.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat level by adding more jalapeños or diced green chilies.
• Cheese Options: Try different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, for a spicier kick.

How to Serve Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup, the options are delightful and plentiful. Here are some great ideas:

• Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for a refreshing contrast.
• Crunch Factor: Serve with crushed tortilla chips sprinkled on top for added texture.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a light green salad dressed with a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
• Occasions: Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings during cold winter nights, making it a versatile dish.
• Leftovers: Store any remaining soup in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Seasonal Touch: During summer, consider a fresh pico de gallo on the side to brighten the meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings friends and family together. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it unforgettable, especially on those chilly evenings. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones; it’s bound to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine!

Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker King Ranch Chicken Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This easy weeknight dinner is loaded with tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and fresh spices. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a dish you’ll want to make tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Soups

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 430 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  

• 8 tablespoons Butter
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
• 4 cups Slow-sodium chicken broth
• 4 teaspoons Chili powder
• 1 tablespoon Ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 10 ounces Diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 medium Fresh jalapeño pepper minced (seeds and membranes left intact for spicy, removed for mild)
• 2 cups Freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend or Colby Jack cheese, plus more for serving)
• Tortilla chips for serving
• Fresh cilantro (optional), chopped

Instructions

 

• Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté until it is fragrant and light golden brown, about 1 minute.
• Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute.
• Slowly whisk in the chicken broth. Increase the heat to a simmer and whisk continuously for several minutes, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and salt. Add black pepper to taste and set the sauce aside.
• Place the chicken breasts in a large slow cooker. Top them with the diced tomatoes with green chilies and jalapeño and pour the sauce over the top.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through but not overcooked.
• Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, stir the cheese into the slow cooker and cover the slow cooker for the time being.
• Shred the chicken and stir it back into the slow cooker.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and all of the ingredients are heated through. Stir well.
• To serve, crush the tortilla chips into a bowl and ladle the soup over the top, garnishing with extra cheese and cilantro, if desired.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Place it in freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to two months.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of cornbread for a classic pairing.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a meatless option.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat level by adding more jalapeños or diced green chilies.
• Cheese Options: Try different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, for a spicier kick.

Keyword Comforting Chicken Soup, Easy Chicken Soup Recipe, King Ranch Chicken Soup, Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.