King Ranch Chicken Soup
If you’re a fan of King Ranch chicken, this Crockpot King Ranch Chicken Soup will quickly become a favorite. With its comforting blend of chicken, spices, and creamy cheese, it’s the perfect cozy dish for any occasion.
Packed with savory flavors from tomatoes, chilies, and a hint of cumin, this soup offers the rich, satisfying taste you love about King Ranch chicken. Plus, it’s made effortlessly in the crockpot for ultimate convenience.
Top with cheese, cilantro, and tortilla chips for a delicious, customizable meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This easy soup will be a hit from the first spoonful.
King Ranch Chicken Soup: Ingredients
Butter enriches the base with a velvety richness, while the onion and garlic bring a savory foundation to the soup. The red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and color, balancing the bold flavors of the Rotel tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup.
Shredded chicken offers heartiness, complemented by the depth of chicken broth and the perfect blend of taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder for a comforting warmth. Cream cheese melts into the soup, creating a smooth, creamy texture that elevates the entire dish.
King Ranch Chicken Soup
If you love the hearty, comforting flavors of King Ranch chicken, this Crockpot King Ranch Chicken Soup is the perfect twist on a classic favorite. Packed with tender chicken, savory spices, creamy cheese, and a rich tomato base, this dish is ideal for busy days or cozy evenings. The best part? It’s all made effortlessly in your slow cooker, giving you a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
Recipe Tips
- Customize the Spice Level: The Rotel tomatoes bring a nice heat, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, opt for the mild Rotel variety or use diced tomatoes instead. For an extra kick, try adding a bit more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce towards the end of cooking.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken. Shred it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the crockpot for a quick and flavorful soup without any extra prep.
- Cream Cheese Tips: For a smoother consistency, make sure the cream cheese is cubed and at room temperature before adding it to the soup. This helps it melt evenly and blend into the soup without clumping. Stir the soup well after adding the cream cheese to ensure it’s fully incorporated.
What to Serve with King Ranch Chicken Soup
- Warm Tortillas or Tortilla Chips: A side of warm flour tortillas or crispy tortilla chips is the perfect complement to King Ranch Chicken Soup. The crunchy texture and slight saltiness balance out the creamy soup, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Mexican Rice: Serve this soup with a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal. The fluffy rice soaked in a mild tomato sauce enhances the soup’s flavors and makes it feel even more indulgent. It’s a great way to add some texture and bulk to your meal.
- Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. The crunch of fresh vegetables and the acidity of the dressing help cut through the creaminess of the King Ranch Chicken Soup, keeping the meal balanced.
FAQ
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese? While cream cheese is essential for the rich texture of the soup, you can swap out the shredded Mexican cheese blend for other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Make sure to leave some room in the container for the liquid to expand as it freezes. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always double-check the taco seasoning and cream of mushroom soup labels to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
King Ranch Chicken Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper seeded and diced
- 2 10 oz cans Rotel tomatoes
- 1 10 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet taco seasoning 1 oz
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 8 oz cream cheese cubed, at room temperature
- Optional Toppings:
- Fresh chopped cilantro
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Tortilla chips or strips
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Begin by placing the butter, diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, shredded chicken, chicken broth, taco seasoning, ground cumin, and chili powder into the crockpot.
- Cook the mixture on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After the soup has cooked, add the cubed cream cheese. Stir thoroughly until it is fully melted and well-incorporated into the soup.
- Serve the soup topped with your preferred garnishes such as cheese, cilantro, and tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to three months. Ensure there is sufficient space in the container for the liquid to expand during freezing. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
