Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

This slow cooker chicken tortilla soup is one of those recipes I rely on when I want something comforting but don’t want to hover over the stove. I usually throw everything into the slow cooker earlier in the day, then forget about it until dinner.

By the time it’s ready, the chicken is tender, the broth is flavorful, and the whole kitchen smells quietly inviting. It’s simple, filling, and easy to customize depending on what toppings you’re in the mood for.

Behind the Recipe

I started making this soup during busy weeks when I needed dinner to practically make itself. Over time, I simplified it down to the ingredients I always have on hand. This version skips anything complicated and focuses on bold, familiar flavors that come together naturally in the slow cooker.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Chicken tortilla soup is inspired by Mexican flavors and is traditionally served with crispy tortilla strips. Over time, home cooks adapted it into countless variations, including slow cooker versions that make it more accessible for everyday meals.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)

• Hands-off cooking: The slow cooker does most of the work
• Hearty and filling: Protein, beans, and corn make it satisfying
• Customizable: Easy to adjust spice level and toppings
• Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day
• Simple ingredients: No specialty items required
• Comforting: Warm, familiar flavors in every bite
• Crowd-friendly: Easy to scale up for family or guests

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Trim the chicken: Removes excess fat for a cleaner broth
• Don’t overcook: Four hours on low keeps chicken tender
• Shred while warm: Chicken pulls apart more easily
• Taste at the end: Adjust seasoning once flavors have developed

Ingredients in This Recipe

1. Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy shredding
2. Diced tomatoes: Add body and mild acidity
3. Black beans: Provide heartiness and texture
4. Corn kernels: Bring sweetness and color
5. Ground cumin: Adds warm, earthy flavor
6. Chili powder: Gives gentle heat without overpowering
7. Chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup
8. Olive oil: Adds richness and helps season the chicken
9. Salt and pepper: Essential for balance
10. Shredded cheese: Melts into the soup for creaminess
11. Toppings: Tortilla chips, cilantro, and lime add crunch and brightness

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Slow cooker: For hands-off simmering
2. Cutting board: For prep and toppings
3. Chef’s knife: Clean, even cuts
4. Ladle: Easy serving
5. Serving bowls: Wide bowls hold toppings well

Instructions for Making This Recipe

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker and drizzle with olive oil.
2. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure ingredients are mostly covered.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
6. Cook uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Ladle into bowls, add cheese and toppings, and serve hot.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken breasts: Boneless chicken thighs work well
• Black beans: Pinto beans are a good alternative
• Corn: Fresh corn can be used when in season
• Chicken broth: Vegetable broth works if needed
• Cheese: Monterey Jack or Colby are great swaps

Ingredient Spotlight

• Ground cumin: Gives the soup its signature warmth and depth
• Black beans: Add protein and help thicken the soup naturally

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This chicken tortilla soup is a hearty, flavorful dish prepared using a slow cooker, incorporating tender shredded chicken, smoky spices, tomatoes, and beans. The finished soup has a rich, bubbling appearance with a slightly thickened texture, topped with crispy chips, melty cheese, and fresh herbs.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts preferably trimmed
• 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz can
• 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels frozen or canned, drained
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
• Toppings as desired tortilla chips, chopped cilantro, lime wedges

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Ladle
• Serving bowls

Method

 

1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker and drizzle with olive oil. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper on top. Pour in the chicken broth to cover the ingredients.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. The kitchen will fill with a rich, fragrant aroma and the mixture will simmer gently.
3. Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine. Let it cook uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels if desired. The soup should look thickened and bubbling around the edges, with vibrant colors from the tomatoes and beans.
5. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Top with tortilla chips, chopped cilantro, and squeeze fresh lime juice for added brightness.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy a comforting, vibrant bowl of chicken tortilla soup with a variety of crispy and fresh toppings that add texture and flavor.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

• Tender chicken: Slow cooking keeps it moist and easy to shred
• Thickened broth: Beans and tomatoes add body naturally
• Balanced flavor: Mild spice lets toppings shine

What to Avoid

• Overcooking chicken: Can make it dry
• Too much broth: Dilutes flavor
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Always taste before serving

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sodium: Varies by broth and toppings

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make ahead: Soup can be made one day in advance
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave

How to Serve This Dish

• Classic bowl: With cheese, chips, cilantro, and lime
• Family-style: Set out toppings for everyone to customize
• With sides: Pairs well with cornbread or a simple salad

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Tortilla soup tacos: Use as a taco filling
• Rice bowl base: Spoon over rice or quinoa
• Loaded baked potatoes: Use as a topping

Variations to Try

• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or sour cream
• Spicy kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce
• Green chili twist: Add canned green chilies
• Extra veggie: Add bell peppers or zucchini
• Low-carb: Skip beans and corn, add more chicken and broth

FAQs

1. Can I cook this on high?: Yes, cook on high for about 2–3 hours.
2. Can I freeze this soup?: Yes, freeze without toppings for up to 2 months.
3. Is it very spicy?: No, it’s mild and customizable.
4. Can I use rotisserie chicken?: Yes, add shredded chicken near the end.
5. Do I need tortilla chips?: No, but they add crunch.
6. Can I add rice?: Yes, cooked rice can be stirred in before serving.
7. Why cook uncovered at the end?: Helps slightly thicken the soup.
8. What cheese melts best?: Cheddar or Mexican blend work well.
9. Can I double the recipe?: Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough.
10. Does it taste better the next day?: Yes, flavors deepen overnight.

Olivia

Hi there! I’m Olivia Chen-Williams, a 54-year-old late-blooming cook, career coach, and the face behind Turn Around At 50 – a food blog that proves it’s never too late to start something new (even if your first attempt burns to a crisp!).