Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 4 cups chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips; Sour cream; Chopped cilantro; Sliced avocado; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Mexico right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's quick to prepare and slow-cooked to perfection.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:46:16.578Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with vibrant flavors that will warm you up on a chilly day. The combination of tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and spices creates a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Top it off with crispy tortilla strips and your favorite garnishes for a delicious finish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and zesty flavors in every bite
Convenient slow-cooker method for busy days
Customizable with your favorite toppings

      

A Taste of Mexico in Your Home

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports you to the vibrant flavors of Mexico. The combination of tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and savory spices creates a comforting broth that's perfect for any occasion. Each spoonful brings a burst of flavor, making it an instant favorite for the whole family.

The use of slow cooking enhances the depth of flavors, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over time. As the chicken simmers in the broth, it absorbs the spices and melds with the other components, resulting in a rich, hearty soup that's ideal for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers.

Effortless Meal Preparation

One of the standout features of this recipe is its convenience. Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and let it do the work for you. This hands-off approach is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, the slow cooker allows you to prepare the soup in advance. You can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious, warm dinner waiting for you. This flexibility makes it a fantastic choice for meal prepping or for those who enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience.

Endless Customization Options

Another reason to love this chicken tortilla soup is its versatility. The recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Whether you prefer a dollop of creamy sour cream, fresh cilantro, or slices of avocado, the options are endless.

Feel free to experiment with different beans, add extra veggies, or spice it up with additional chili powder for a kick. This adaptability not only caters to various dietary preferences but also ensures you can enjoy a new twist on the classic dish every time you make it.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
4 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Tortilla strips
Sour cream
Chopped cilantro
Sliced avocado
Lime wedges

Gather all your ingredients and get ready to make a delicious meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and chicken broth. Stir to mix well.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve the Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, sour cream, cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges as desired. Enjoy!

Enjoy your hearty and delicious soup!

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

To achieve the best flavor in your chicken tortilla soup, consider using homemade chicken broth if possible. This enhances the soup's richness and allows you to control the seasoning more effectively. Alternatively, low-sodium store-bought broth can be a great option to keep the salt content in check.

If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Simply add the chicken towards the end of the cooking time to heat it through, allowing you to enjoy the soup even on the busiest nights.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your chicken tortilla soup, consider pairing it with warm corn tortillas or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate your dining experience and leave everyone satisfied.

For a fun twist, you can create a tortilla soup bar. Set out an array of toppings like shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and sliced radishes, allowing guests to customize their bowls. This interactive approach adds a festive touch to your meal and makes it even more enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover chicken tortilla soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or for enjoying later in the week. If you plan to freeze the soup, it's best to do so without the toppings, as they may not freeze well.

When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the soup if it has thickened in the refrigerator. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, just increase the cooking time slightly.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tortilla strips.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! The soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute the chicken with shredded beef or even beans for a vegetarian version.