Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita & Quinoa Soup
Introduction
If you are looking for a warm and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare, look no further than Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita & Quinoa Soup. This dish combines tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and colorful vegetables, resulting in a delicious and hearty soup that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days. It takes just a few minutes to prep, then your slow cooker does all the work! It’s healthy, packed with protein, and offers a zesty flavor that adds a twist to traditional soup. Plus, you can customize the toppings to make it your own!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita & Quinoa Soup
Making this soup is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps to bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa (rinsed)
- 3 bell peppers (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (4.5 oz) can green chiles
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 1/2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 Tbsp cumin
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp salt
- Toppings (optional: cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese)
Directions
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the chicken and all the other ingredients.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and season with additional salt and spices if needed.
- Spoon the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita & Quinoa Soup
This soup can be served hot in bowls. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or shredded cheese for added flavor. It pairs well with tortilla chips or crusty bread, making it a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita & Quinoa Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita & Quinoa Soup
- Rinse the quinoa before adding it to the slow cooker to remove any bitterness.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste, adding more or less chili powder or cumin.
- Add more vegetables, such as zucchini or corn, to make it even heartier.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using different proteins like turkey or beef, or by replacing quinoa with brown rice for a different texture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just cook it a bit longer until fully cooked.
Q2: Is this soup spicy?
The level of spice depends on the amount of chili powder and green chiles you use. You can adjust these to suit your preference.
Q3: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with more beans or vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
Experience the warmth and taste of Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita & Quinoa Soup in your kitchen today!