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 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla strips; Shredded cheese; Sour cream; Avocado slices; Fresh cilantro

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy the comforting flavors of this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:34:13.755Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. It's a hands-off recipe that allows you to enjoy delicious homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out
Convenient slow cooker method for easy meal prep
Customizable with your favorite toppings and garnishes

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that comes together effortlessly. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering with friends or simply looking for a satisfying dinner after a long day, this soup delivers. The combination of tender chicken, black beans, and vibrant tomatoes creates a rich and hearty broth that will warm your soul.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños for a kick. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Feel free to toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture!

Slow Cooker Convenience

Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors of your ingredients. As they simmer together over hours, the spices meld beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that's hard to achieve with quick cooking methods. Just set it and forget it—your kitchen will fill with the tantalizing aroma of Mexican-inspired goodness while you go about your day.

This hands-off approach means you can spend more time doing what you love, whether it's prepping for a busy week ahead or enjoying quality time with family. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot. It's an ideal solution for busy weeknights!

Customizable and Fun

One of the most delightful aspects of this tortilla soup is the opportunity for customization. Once your soup is ready, you can set up a toppings bar with all your favorite garnishes. From crispy tortilla strips to creamy avocado and fresh cilantro, each bite can be tailored to your liking. This makes it a fun dish for family dinners where everyone can create their perfect bowl.

Moreover, the toppings not only add flavor but also texture, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Don’t hesitate to get creative—add some pickled red onions for tang, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. The possibilities are endless, and your soup can be as unique as you are!

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

Tortilla strips
Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Avocado slices
Fresh cilantro

Feel free to add any other toppings you enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Soup

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the soup. Stir well.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro as desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade tortilla soup!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this delicious soup, you're in luck! Chicken tortilla soup stores exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When freezing, it's best to leave out any fresh toppings so they don't become soggy. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you'll have a comforting meal ready to go in no time!

Nutritional Benefits

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health, while black beans offer a great source of fiber and plant-based protein. Together, they create a filling meal that can help keep you satisfied and energized.

Additionally, the inclusion of flavorful spices like cumin and chili powder not only enhances the taste but also contributes to various health benefits. Cumin is known for its antioxidant properties, while chili powder can boost metabolism. So, with every spoonful, you're not just treating your taste buds—you're nourishing your body too!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this chicken tortilla soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread. The bread will soak up the delicious broth and provide a satisfying contrast to the soup's texture. If you prefer a lighter option, a fresh green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors beautifully.

For beverages, a refreshing iced tea or a light Mexican beer can be perfect companions. If you're in the mood for something non-alcoholic, try a sparkling water with lime to cleanse your palate between bites. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.