DisclaimerTerms Of UseGDPR PolicyCookie Policy

Southern Dishes

Latest & Greatest

browse recipes

Appetizers Appetizers Dessert Dessert Dinner Dinner Drinks Drinks
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour - 1 ½ cups granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 tablespoon cocoa powder - 1 ½ cups vegetable oil - 1 cup buttermilk - 2 large eggs - 2 tablespoons red food coloring - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon white vinegar

Red Velvet Cake Delight Simple and Tasty Recipe

Red Velvet Cake is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. This deep red treat is not just beautiful; it’s delicious and easy…

Read More

My Latest Desserts

My Latest Recipes

Meet

hey,

i’m !

I’m so happy you’re here!

My kitchen is filled with stories, flavors, and love and I’m so happy to share them with you. Here’s to dishes that feel like home.

My Favorites

- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - Zest of 1 lemon - Juice of 1/2 lemon You need fresh chicken wings for this dish. Choose wings that are plump and juicy. The seasoning is simple but key to great flavor. Use salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to spice things up. The garlic Parmesan sauce makes these wings shine. You’ll need unsalted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The butter adds richness, while the garlic and lemon bring brightness. This mix of ingredients creates a tasty dish that is easy to make. You can find these items in most grocery stores. With these ingredients, your air fryer garlic Parmesan wings will impress everyone. How to prep the wings: Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is key for crispiness. Then, place the wings in a large bowl. Add salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss well until the wings are evenly coated. Preheating the air fryer: Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step takes about five minutes. A hot air fryer helps cook the wings faster and makes them crispy. Air frying technique: Once the air fryer is ready, place the seasoned wings in a single layer in the basket. Avoid stacking them. This allows air to flow around each wing for even cooking. Time and temperature details: Cook the wings for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket to flip the wings. This ensures all sides get golden brown and crispy. Steps to make the garlic Parmesan sauce: While the wings cook, make the sauce. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. When it smells wonderful, remove it from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and combined. Tossing wings in sauce: When the wings are done, move them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the wings. Toss until every wing is well coated in the sauce. Garnishing tips: Lastly, add chopped parsley for color and flavor. Serve the wings on a large platter. You can add lemon wedges and extra parsley for a fresh touch. Consider a small bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. To make your wings crispy, start by drying them well. Use paper towels to pat them dry. Removing moisture helps the wings crisp up in the air fryer. I also suggest using cooking spray. A light coat on the wings and basket helps them brown nicely. Every air fryer cooks a bit differently. Some may cook faster than others. I recommend checking your wings at 20 minutes. If they need more time, add 5-minute intervals. Look for a deep golden color as a sign they are done. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This keeps your wings safe to eat. {{image_2}} You can spice up your garlic Parmesan wings. Here’s how: - Spicy Garlic Parmesan Wings: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix. This will give your wings a nice kick. Toss the wings in the spicy garlic sauce for a fiery flavor. - Honey Garlic Variation: Mix honey into the sauce. This sweet touch balances the garlic. Simply stir in 2 tablespoons of honey with the butter and garlic for a tasty twist. You can try other sauces for your wings. Here are some ideas: - Other Sauce Options for Coating: Use buffalo sauce, teriyaki sauce, or barbecue sauce. They all give a unique taste. You can mix these sauces with the garlic Parmesan sauce for extra flavor. - Dipping Sauces Suggestions: Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a spicy mayo. These dips complement the wings well. They add creaminess and flavor that make each bite even better. To keep your garlic Parmesan wings fresh, store them right. Place the cooled wings in an airtight container. Make sure they are dry to avoid sogginess. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the wings. Use a freezer-safe bag or container, and remove as much air as possible. They will stay good for about three months in the freezer. To reheat the wings, the air fryer is your best friend. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the wings in a single layer in the basket. Heat for about 10-12 minutes until they are hot and crispy. If you want to use a microwave, place the wings on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds. This method may not keep them crispy, but it will warm them up. To get crispy chicken wings, cook them for 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). I like to shake the basket halfway through. This helps them cook evenly. You want a golden brown color and a nice crunch. Yes, you can use frozen wings! Just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time. Cook them for about 30 to 35 minutes. Check their doneness to ensure they are cooked through. These wings pair well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Celery sticks: Crunchy and refreshing. - Carrot sticks: Adds color and sweetness. - French fries: A classic comfort food. - Potato wedges: Perfect for dipping. For drinks, consider these pairings: - Beer: A light lager or pale ale works great. - Lemonade: A refreshing, tangy option. - Iced tea: A cool drink that balances the wings' flavor. These sides and drinks will make your meal even better! You now have all you need to make amazing garlic Parmesan chicken wings! We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and even storage tips. You learned how to achieve crispiness and explore fun flavor variations. Remember, cooking is about experimenting and having fun. So don’t be afraid to try new sauces or adjustments. Enjoy your wings with great sides and drinks, and impress your friends and family. Happy cooking! Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings Tasty and Simple Dish To make a warm cup of slow cooker spiced apple cider, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: - 8 cups apple cider - 1 cup water - 2 cinnamon sticks - 1 tablespoon whole cloves - 1 tablespoon allspice berries - 1 orange, sliced into rounds - 1 apple, sliced - 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional) - A pinch of salt Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor. The apple cider serves as the base, giving the drink its sweet and fruity taste. Water helps to balance the strong flavors. Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice berries bring warmth and spice to the mix. Sliced orange and apple add a fresh, fruity twist. If you enjoy a sweeter cider, maple syrup is a nice touch. Finally, a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a delightful drink! - First, combine 8 cups apple cider and 1 cup water in your slow cooker. - Next, add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon whole cloves, and 1 tablespoon allspice berries. Stir gently to mix everything. - Toss in 1 sliced orange and 1 sliced apple for extra flavor. - If you like your cider sweet, add 1 tablespoon maple syrup and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine. - Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the cooker to low for 3 to 4 hours or high for about 2 hours. This allows the spices to blend well with the cider. - As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with warm, inviting scents. - Once the cooking time is complete, stir the cider. Taste it and adjust the sweetness if needed. - If you prefer, strain out the spices and fruit slices before serving. This step can enhance the drink's smoothness. - Serve the warm cider in mugs and enjoy the cozy flavors! To enhance spiciness, I recommend adding more cinnamon sticks or whole cloves. You can also try a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Adjusting the spice mix lets you create your unique flavor. Balancing sweetness and acidity is key. The natural sweetness of the apple cider shines, but you might want to add maple syrup. This adds depth without making it too sweet. If it tastes too sweet, a squeeze of lemon juice can help brighten the drink. When using your slow cooker, choose low for a longer cook. This option allows flavors to develop fully. High cooking works well too, but check at the one-hour mark. You want to serve the cider hot, ideally after three hours on low. This is when the spices blend perfectly, giving you a rich taste. For serving, use clear mugs to show off the drink's rich color. Add a slice of orange or apple on the rim for a fun touch. Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon on top can elevate the look. If you want to impress guests, consider using a cinnamon stick as a stirrer. This adds a nice visual element and extra flavor. {{image_2}} You can change the fruit in your cider. Try adding pear slices for a sweet twist. Cranberries add a nice tartness, too. Just think about what flavors you enjoy. You can also swap spices. Instead of cloves, try star anise for a different taste. Nutmeg can give warmth, while cardamom adds a unique flair. Get creative with what you have on hand. Want to make your cider a bit more festive? You can add alcohol! A splash of rum or bourbon warms the drink and adds depth. For a lighter option, try adding apple brandy. Pair your spiced cider with these spirits. They enhance the flavors and make it a cozy treat. Just remember to sip responsibly. If you want a sweeter drink but need to watch sugar, try honey. It blends well and adds a floral taste. Agave syrup is another good option. It’s sweet and won’t change the cider's taste much. If you want to skip the sweeteners altogether, focus on the natural sweetness of the apples and oranges. This way, you can enjoy a sugar-free version that still tastes great. To store spiced apple cider, first let it cool to room temperature. Pour the cider into an airtight container. Glass jars work well for this. Seal the container tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to a week. A clean, dry pitcher is also a good choice. To reheat your cider, use the stove or a slow cooker. Heat it on low to keep the flavors. If using the microwave, warm it in short bursts. Stir often to avoid hot spots. This keeps the taste just right. Avoid boiling, as it can change the flavor. Yes, you can freeze spiced apple cider. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top. The cider will expand as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stove once thawed. This way, your cider stays tasty and warm. You can keep spiced apple cider in the fridge for about 5 to 7 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it. When frozen, it lasts for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight when you are ready to drink it again. Yes, you can use store-bought apple juice. However, the taste will differ. Apple cider has a richer flavor, while juice is sweeter and less complex. If you use juice, you might want to add more spices to mimic the cider's depth. You can also adjust the sweetness to find the right balance for your taste. Yes, it is safe to leave the slow cooker on overnight if you follow some tips. Make sure your slow cooker is in good condition and placed on a stable surface. Use the low setting for longer cooking times. Always check the manual for specific guidelines. This way, you can wake up to a warm and cozy drink! This blog post explored making delicious spiced apple cider in a slow cooker. We covered the essential ingredients, detailed step-by-step instructions, and offered tips for perfecting flavor. You learned about variations, storage options, and frequently asked questions. Spiced apple cider is not just a drink; it brings warmth and comfort. Enjoy crafting your unique version, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors. Your kitchen can be a hub of holiday cheer and joy with just a few simple steps! Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider Flavorful Drink Delight To make tasty turkey meatballs, you need a few simple items: - 1 lb ground turkey - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1 large egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients come together to create a flavorful base for your meatballs. The ground turkey gives them a light texture. Breadcrumbs help keep them moist, while Parmesan adds a nice cheesy taste. Fresh parsley brightens the dish. The egg binds everything, and garlic gives it a kick. You can use any marinara sauce you like. Here are some options: - Store-bought marinara sauce - Homemade marinara sauce If you have time, making homemade marinara can add a fresh touch. Just simmer tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. If you’re short on time, a good quality store-bought sauce works great too. Warm it before adding the meatballs, ensuring they soak up all the flavor. Garnishing elevates your dish. Consider these options: - Fresh basil leaves - Additional Parmesan cheese Fresh basil adds a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top gives it that gourmet look. These garnishes are simple but make a big difference in presentation. Enjoy your meal with these tasty touches! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section above. Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Then, add chopped parsley, a large egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well. You want a smooth and even mixture. It should hold together easily when you roll it into balls. Now, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced out. This helps them cook evenly. Bake the meatballs in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a nice golden brown color. They should be fully cooked by this time. While the meatballs bake, you can heat the marinara sauce. Pour the sauce into a saucepan and set it over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it warms through. This will take about 5 to 10 minutes. When the meatballs are ready, add them to the warm sauce. Gently stir to coat each meatball. Let them simmer for 5 minutes. This step allows the meatballs to soak up the flavor of the sauce. For the full details on how to make these delicious turkey meatballs, check out the Full Recipe. To make moist turkey meatballs, you should use the right mix of ingredients. Ground turkey can be lean, so add breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients help keep moisture in. The egg also binds the meatballs and keeps them soft. When mixing, don't overwork the meat. Just combine until mixed. This keeps the meatballs tender and juicy. Baking turkey meatballs at 400°F (200°C) works best. This temperature cooks them evenly while giving a nice brown color. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check them around the 20-minute mark. The meatballs should be golden brown and firm to the touch. Use a meat thermometer if you want. The center should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. Turkey meatballs are great on spaghetti or on their own with marinara sauce. You can also serve them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese. For a lighter option, try them on a salad with fresh greens. Garnish with fresh basil or more Parmesan cheese for a nice touch. You can find the full recipe to make these tasty meatballs and explore more ideas for serving them. {{image_2}} You can make your turkey meatballs even healthier by adding vegetables. Try finely chopping spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. These veggies not only add nutrients but also enhance flavor. Mix about 1/2 cup of chopped veggies into the meatball mixture. This small change can make a big difference. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well in binding the meatballs. You could also try oats instead of breadcrumbs. Just blend them into a fine powder. Both options keep your meatballs tasty and enjoyable for everyone. While marinara is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to try other sauces. A creamy Alfredo sauce pairs well with turkey meatballs too. If you like spice, a zesty arrabbiata sauce adds a nice kick. You could even use barbecue sauce for a fun twist. Each sauce gives your dish a new flavor to explore. For the full recipe, check out the details above. After enjoying your turkey meatballs, let them cool down. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Ensure the sauce is stored separately. This keeps the meatballs from getting soggy. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the meatballs cool completely. Next, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, take out the desired amount of meatballs. You can place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This method keeps them moist. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in the microwave. Just add a splash of sauce to keep them juicy. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your turkey meatballs with marinara again, just like the first time! For the full recipe, refer to the recipe section above. To keep turkey meatballs moist, use fresh ground turkey. Add breadcrumbs and egg for binding. These ingredients help trap moisture. Avoid overcooking them in the oven. Baking at 400°F for 20-25 minutes works well. You can also simmer them in marinara sauce after baking. This adds flavor and moisture. Yes, you can swap ground turkey for ground beef. Beef gives a richer flavor and a different texture. Keep in mind, ground beef is higher in fat. Adjust cooking time if needed, as it may take longer to cook. The result will still be delicious. Turkey meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The meatballs should be golden brown outside and firm to touch. Cut one open to check; it should be cooked through with no pink inside. Enjoy your turkey meatballs with marinara! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. You learned about making tasty turkey meatballs. We covered ingredients, preparation, and cooking tips. I shared ideas for sauces and how to add veggies. Storing and reheating were also explained. Remember to keep the meatballs moist and use your favorite sauce. Enjoy this healthy dish in various ways. With these tips, you can make great meals. Now it's your turn to try this recipe! Easy Turkey Meatballs with Marinara for Dinner - Ripe peaches - Red bell pepper - Red onion - Jalapeño pepper - Fresh cilantro - Lime juice - Honey or agave syrup - Salt and pepper To make the best peach salsa, start with fresh, ripe peaches. They add sweetness and flavor. I prefer medium-sized peaches. Just three will do! Next, I use a red bell pepper. It gives the salsa a nice crunch and color. Chop it finely so it mixes well. A red onion adds a bit of bite. I usually use half of one, chopped small. It adds a nice zing to the mix. For some heat, I add a jalapeño pepper. Remember to remove the seeds. This way, it won’t be too spicy. Mince it finely to blend in with the other ingredients. Fresh cilantro is a must for that fresh taste. I chop about two tablespoons to mix in. Lime juice adds brightness to the salsa. Just one tablespoon is enough. To sweeten, I add one tablespoon of honey or agave syrup. It balances the flavors nicely. Finally, don’t forget salt and pepper. A little sprinkle brings all the flavors together. - Mixing bowl - Knife and cutting board - Measuring spoons You’ll need a few tools to make peach salsa. A mixing bowl is key for combining everything. A sharp knife and cutting board will help you chop and dice the fruits and veggies. Measuring spoons are great for precise amounts, especially for lime juice and honey. With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to create a delicious peach salsa. For the full recipe, check out the Peachy Keen Salsa section above! Start by washing the peaches. Rinse them under cold water. This removes dirt and pesticides. Next, you can peel the peaches if you want. I usually skip peeling. Dice the peaches into small pieces. Aim for about half an inch in size. This helps the salsa mix well. Now, chop the red bell pepper and red onion. Cut them into small, fine pieces. Keep the size similar to the peaches. This way, every bite has a mix of flavors. Next, mince the jalapeño pepper. Remove the seeds first if you want less heat. Mince it finely so you get a nice, spicy kick without big chunks. In a large mixing bowl, combine all your prepared ingredients. Add the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, and minced jalapeño. Now it’s time for the fun part! Add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and honey. This brings a sweet and tangy flavor. Gently toss everything together. Make sure not to mash the peaches while mixing. You want a nice, chunky texture for your salsa. For the best taste, refrigerate your salsa for about 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld together. When ready to serve, present your salsa in a decorative bowl. You can garnish it with a sprig of cilantro. This makes it look fresh and inviting. I love pairing peach salsa with tortilla chips or using it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. It’s a perfect summer treat! Check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps and ingredient measurements. To make your peach salsa shine, timing matters. Let the salsa sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge. This wait allows the flavors to mix well. If you rush this step, you might miss out on that rich taste. Adjusting spice levels is also key. If you want a milder salsa, use less jalapeño. For more heat, add more jalapeño or even a dash of hot sauce. Always taste as you go. This way, you can find the right spice for your palate. Serving peach salsa in a fun way can make it even better. Use a colorful bowl that matches your kitchen vibe. It looks great and makes people want to dig in. Pair it with crunchy tortilla chips for a perfect snack. Garnishing is an art. A sprig of cilantro on top adds a nice touch. You can also sprinkle some lime zest for extra color. This simple trick makes the dish look fancy and inviting. {{image_2}} You can easily switch up your peach salsa. Adding fruits like mango or pineapple gives it a fun twist. These fruits add sweetness and a tropical feel. You can mix and match based on what you like. Try using a blend of peaches and mangos for a sweet treat. You can also add spices for a unique flavor. Cumin gives a warm taste, while smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust. This way, you can find the right balance for your taste buds. If you want a vegan option, swap honey for agave syrup. This keeps the sweetness without using animal products. Agave syrup blends well, so you won’t miss the honey at all. For those watching carbs, you can skip the honey or agave syrup. The natural sweetness of the peaches shines through even without added sugar. This keeps your salsa fresh and light while still being tasty. To keep peach salsa fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent air exposure. This helps keep the flavors bright and zesty. Peach salsa lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. After this time, the peaches may become mushy. If you notice any off smells or colors, it's best to toss it. Yes, you can freeze peach salsa! This is a great way to save leftovers. Use a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. Be sure to leave some space for it to expand as it freezes. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place the bag in cold water. After thawing, stir well before serving. The texture might change a bit, so use it in cooked dishes or as a topping. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy your peach salsa! What are the health benefits of peach salsa? Peach salsa is low in calories and full of vitamins. Peaches provide vitamin C and fiber. The red bell pepper adds antioxidants. This salsa can aid digestion and boost your immune system. Can I make peach salsa ahead of time? Yes, you can make peach salsa ahead of time. It tastes better after sitting for a bit. I suggest chilling it for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend well. Is peach salsa spicy? Peach salsa can be mild or spicy. The heat depends on the jalapeño pepper. If you prefer less spice, remove all the seeds. You can also use less jalapeño for a milder taste. What dishes go well with peach salsa? Peach salsa pairs well with many dishes. Serve it with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It also works great as a dip with tortilla chips. You can even use it to top tacos or salads. How to make the best peach salsa? To make the best peach salsa, use ripe peaches. Fresh ingredients are key for bright flavors. I recommend letting it sit for 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the taste and texture. What other salsas can I create with similar ingredients? You can create many salsas with similar ingredients. Try mango salsa by swapping peaches for mangoes. For a tropical twist, add pineapple. You can also experiment with flavors by adding herbs or spices. For the full recipe, check the Full Recipe section above! In this post, we explored how to make a fresh and tasty peach salsa. We looked at the key ingredients, tools needed, and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for perfecting the flavor and creative serving ideas. You can experiment with variations, adjust for diets, and learn the best way to store your salsa. This easy recipe adds joy to your meals. Dive in and enjoy the burst of flavor! Peach Salsa Fresh and Flavorful Summer Treat

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup Tasty and Easy Meal

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? You’ll love this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup! With just a few simple ingredients, you can…

Read More
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained - 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained) - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 garlic cloves, minced - Spices: 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - 4 cups chicken broth - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - Chopped fresh cilantro - Avocado slices - Lime wedges When I cook this slow cooker chicken enchilada soup, I rely on these ingredients. They make a rich and tasty base. The chicken breasts are the star. They stay tender and juicy. The black beans and corn add fiber and sweetness. The red enchilada sauce gives a bold kick. The diced tomatoes with green chilies add freshness and spice. For seasoning, I use a diced onion and minced garlic. They build flavor and aroma. Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika warm up the dish. I always taste and adjust salt and pepper last. Finally, I love to top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice. These add creaminess and brightness to each bite. - Layer the chicken in the slow cooker. - Add onion and garlic on top. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place them at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps the chicken soak up all the flavors. Next, dice one medium onion. Mince two garlic cloves. Sprinkle the diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken. The onion adds sweetness, while garlic gives a nice kick. - Pour black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes. - Add spices and chicken broth. Now it’s time to add more flavor. Open a can of black beans and a can of corn, and drain them. Pour these into the slow cooker. Next, add a can of red enchilada sauce. This sauce makes the soup rich and tasty. Then, pour in a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Don't drain this can; the juices add moisture. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of cumin, one teaspoon of chili powder, and half a teaspoon of smoked paprika. These spices really boost the flavor! Finally, add four cups of chicken broth to make the soup nice and soupy. - Cover and set cooking time. - Shred chicken and finalize the soup. Cover your slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. When the chicken is tender, it’s time to shred. Carefully take the chicken out and use two forks to shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir well. Check the taste. If it needs a little more salt or pepper, add some now. Your soup is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy! How can I adjust spice levels? You can easily change the spice level to fit your taste. If you want more heat, add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños. For less heat, reduce the chili powder or skip the diced tomatoes with green chilies. What are some tips for shredding chicken easily? To shred chicken easily, let it cool for a few minutes after cooking. Use two forks to pull the chicken apart. This method works well and keeps your hands safe. What is the difference between low and high cooking time? Cooking on low takes about 6-8 hours, while high only takes 4 hours. The slow cook on low makes flavors blend better. It also keeps the chicken very tender. What are the benefits of cooking on low? Cooking on low lets the flavors develop fully. It makes the chicken juicy and tender. Plus, you can set it in the morning and come home to a warm meal. What are some suggestions for additional toppings? You can add many toppings to make the soup even better. Consider more shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños. Fresh cilantro and avocado also add a nice touch. What side dishes pair well with this soup? This soup goes well with tortilla chips or warm tortillas. You can also serve it with a simple salad for a fresh touch. {{image_2}} You can change the recipe by swapping beans or veggies. Use pinto beans or chickpeas instead of black beans. Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for a fresh twist. These swaps keep the flavors bright and fun. You can also switch proteins. If you prefer turkey, use ground turkey instead of chicken. For a plant-based option, try tofu. Just cube it and add it to the pot. These swaps give you new flavors while keeping it hearty. To make this soup gluten-free, check your enchilada sauce. Most brands are safe, but some may have gluten. Use corn tortillas for dipping or crumbling on top. For a vegan version, leave out the chicken and broth. Use vegetable broth instead. You can also add extra beans or lentils for protein. Top the soup with vegan cheese or avocado for creaminess. There are many fun ways to serve this soup. It works great for taco night. Just set out toppings like cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Everyone can build their bowl just how they like. You can also use it for lunch prep. Store it in containers for easy meals throughout the week. The soup pairs well with warm tortillas or crusty bread. Just scoop and enjoy! To store leftovers, let the soup cool first. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best. Fill the containers, leaving some space at the top. This helps prevent spills when sealing. Label the containers with the date. This way, you know when to eat it. For freezing soup, use freezer-safe containers. You can also use heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space in the bags for expansion. Seal the bags tightly to avoid air. To thaw, move the soup to the fridge overnight. To reheat, use the stove or microwave. Heat slowly, stirring often to ensure even warmth. In the fridge, the soup lasts about three to four days. In the freezer, it can last up to three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in color. If it looks or smells bad, it’s best to toss it. Keeping track of these time frames helps avoid waste and ensures tasty meals. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. The slow cooker will safely cook the chicken as long as you increase the cooking time by one to two hours. Always check that the chicken reaches a safe temperature of 165°F. What can I substitute for chicken broth? You can use vegetable broth or water if you prefer. If you want more flavor, try using low-sodium vegetable broth. You can also add more spices to boost the taste. Can I add more veggies? Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just chop them into small pieces. Add them at the start with the other ingredients. This will add more nutrition and color to your soup. Is it possible to make this soup spicy? Yes, you can make it spicy! Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños. You can also use a spicier enchilada sauce to kick up the heat. Adjust it to your taste. What slow cooker is best for this recipe? Any standard slow cooker will work. A 4- to 6-quart cooker is a good size for this recipe. Make sure it has a lid that fits well. This helps keep the heat in while cooking. Can I use an instant pot instead? Yes, you can use an instant pot. Cook it on high pressure for about 15 minutes. Make sure to allow time for the pressure to release. This will help you get the same tender chicken and delicious flavor. This blog post covered a tasty and easy slow cooker chicken soup. We looked at the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and ways to enhance this dish. I shared tips on cooking times, storage, and common questions. Remember, you can customize the recipe to match your taste. Enjoy the cooking process, and don't hesitate to experiment with flavors. This soup could become a new family favorite!