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 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla chips; Shredded cheese; Sour cream; Chopped cilantro; Sliced jalapeños

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting and flavorful chicken tortilla soup that cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:58:10.168Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The tender chicken simmers with vibrant vegetables and spices, creating a deliciously hearty meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with a hands-off cooking method
Customizable with your favorite toppings
A warm bowl of comfort that the whole family will enjoy

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When the week gets busy, finding time to prepare a nutritious dinner can be a challenge. This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is the solution for those hectic evenings. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can set it and forget it. Come dinner time, you’ll have a delightful, hearty soup ready to serve, making it the ideal choice for families on the go.

Using a slow cooker not only frees up your time, but it also enhances the flavors of the ingredients. As they simmer together, the spices meld beautifully, resulting in a rich broth that will warm your soul. Plus, the longer cooking time ensures that the chicken is incredibly tender and infused with all the delicious flavors of the soup.

Customizable and Fun

One of the best aspects of this tortilla soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or want to add more vegetables, the options are endless. Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or even swap the black beans for pinto beans. This soup encourages creativity and experimentation, making it a fun dish to prepare.

Toppings are where the real fun begins! Set up a taco bar with an array of toppings like crispy tortilla chips, creamy sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Let everyone personalize their bowl, creating a unique dish that reflects their tastes. This not only makes for a delicious meal but also a great family bonding experience.

Healthy and Satisfying

This chicken tortilla soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. With lean chicken breast as the main protein source, it is low in fat yet high in protein. The addition of black beans and corn provides fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

Additionally, this recipe allows you to control the sodium levels by using low-sodium chicken broth and rinsing canned beans. You can feel good about serving this wholesome soup to your family, knowing it's nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Soup

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

For Toppings

Tortilla chips
Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for an efficient prep!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, add 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 until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

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

Enjoy your delicious soup with friends and family!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This chicken tortilla soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or microwave. This makes for a quick meal option on busy days, ensuring you always have a hearty dish ready to go.

Pairing Suggestions

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of warm cornbread or crusty bread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, enhancing the overall dining experience.

If you're looking for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette complements the soup nicely. The refreshing flavors of the salad balance well with the warmth and spices of the tortilla soup, creating a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you can try to keep things interesting. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with diced tofu or additional veggies like sweet potatoes and bell peppers. You can also replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking. This variation adds a rich flavor profile that transforms the soup into a luxurious dish. Feel free to explore different spices and toppings to make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 30 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for black beans?

You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans, based on your preference.

→ Is this soup spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can add more chili powder or jalapeños for extra heat.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.