Healthier Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Some simple modifications can make this delicious soup even healthier! I reduce the sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and fresh chilies instead of canned. Also, using vegetable cooking spray instead of oil helps reduce the fat content. Adding some tasty fresh toppings helps my family get more vitamins. I also reduce fat by using boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Original recipe makes 8 servings

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 (15 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, mashed
1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce
1 medium onion, chopped
2 banana peppers, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups water
1 (14.25 ounce) can reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 (10 ounce) package frozen corn
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
7 corn tortillas
vegetable cooking spray

PREP

40 mins
COOK

3 hrs
READY IN

3 hrs 40 mins

Directions

Place chicken, tomatoes, enchilada sauce, onion, banana peppers, and garlic into slow cooker. Pour in water and chicken broth. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, ground pepper, and bay leaf. Stir in corn and cilantro. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours, or on High for 3 to 4 hours.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Lightly coat both sides of tortillas with cooking spray. Cut tortillas into strips, then spread on a baking sheet.
Bake in preheated oven until crisp, 10 to 15 minutes. Sprinkle tortilla strips over soup.