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Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Reminiscent of the very popular dish King Ranch Chicken in the form a soup. With all the same flavors and the convenience of throwing everything into a slow cooker, this will also quickly become a favorite. Top with fried corn tortilla strips, if desired.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 people
Calories 2030.7 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Slow Cooker
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For seasoning chicken
  • 1 Instant-Read Thermometer Ensures chicken is cooked to a safe temperature
  • 2 Forks For shredding cooked chicken
  • 1 Ladle For serving the soup

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 serving nonstick cooking spray
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced bell pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt divided
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 10 ounce can diced tomatoes and green chiles (such as RO*TEL®)
  • 1 10 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 4 ounce can chopped green chiles (such as Ortega®)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breast
  • 1 8 ounce package Neufchatel cheese, softened

Instructions
 

  • Spray a slow cooker with cooking spray. Add onions, bell pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, condensed soup, and chiles.
  • Combine oil, taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, cumin, and black pepper in a bowl. Add chicken and toss to coat on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
  • Cook on Low until chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, 2 to 3 hours. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove from the slow cooker and shred. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
  • Add Neufchatel cheese to the slow cooker and stir until melted. Return chicken to the slow cooker and cook until warmed through, 20 to 30 minutes more. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
  • Serve hot and enjoy! DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS 

Notes

For enhanced depth, consider briefly sautéing the diced onions and bell peppers before adding them to the slow cooker to develop their sweetness. Ensure the Neufchatel cheese is truly softened for a smooth, lump-free creamy texture; a brief microwave zap can help if it's too firm. While an instant-read thermometer is crucial for chicken doneness, consistent shredding after cooking is key for an appealing soup texture. To elevate the final dish, garnish generously with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, crispy fried corn tortilla strips, or a dollop of sour cream and sliced avocado for richness and vibrant presentation. Adjust taco seasoning to personal preference for desired spice level.