Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup sweet corn; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; 6 corn tortillas, sliced into strips and baked or fried until crispy

There’s something about a slow-simmered soup that makes a home feel warmer, cozier, and full of life. This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is everything you want in a comforting meal: savory, hearty, and layered with flavor. It brings the essence of a classic Tex-Mex dish into one big bowl, ready to nourish you after a long day.

With just a few minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of spices and simmering chicken. Once ready, you’ll have a bowl of rich tomato broth, tender shredded chicken, and sweet corn, all topped with crispy tortilla strips, cheese, avocado, or anything your heart craves.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This recipe is weeknight-perfect and weekend-worthy. It’s one of those rare meals that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep. The hands-off nature of the slow cooker means you can go about your day while this magic happens behind the scenes. Plus, it’s flexible: use fresh or frozen chicken, swap toppings to suit your mood, and adjust the heat to your liking.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use for the Topping?

Corn tortillas are traditionally used for tortilla soup because of their flavor and how beautifully they crisp up when baked or fried. You can slice them into strips and bake them in the oven until golden, or pan-fry for a quicker crunch. Flour tortillas work too, but they have a softer bite and less authentic flavor. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought tortilla chips make a great shortcut.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. You’re using pantry staples that come together into something that tastes like it simmered on a stovetop all day.

Chicken breasts – The base protein that shreds easily after hours in the slow cooker, soaking up all the spices.
Black beans – They add creaminess and protein, making the soup more filling.
Sweet corn – Adds a touch of natural sweetness and pops of texture.
Crushed tomatoes – They bring depth to the broth with a rich, hearty base.
Onion – Essential for flavor, it melts into the broth during cooking.
Garlic – Brings bold flavor and aroma to the soup.
Chicken broth – The foundation of the soup, it keeps everything juicy and flavorful.
Cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika – These spices infuse the soup with warmth and that signature Tex-Mex kick.
Salt and pepper – Just the right amount to balance the flavors.
Lime juice – Adds brightness at the end to lift all the other ingredients.
Fresh cilantro – Stirred in just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Corn tortillas – Sliced and baked or fried until crispy for that iconic topping.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

Add the chicken breasts, black beans (drained), sweet corn, crushed tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and all spices into the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine well.

Step 2: Cook Low and Slow

Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it and shred it using two forks. Then return the shredded chicken back into the soup and stir.

Step 4: Add Brightness

Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. This brightens the entire dish and gives it a fresh finish.

Step 5: Serve and Top

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips. Add cheese, avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, or any other favorite toppings.

How to Serve and Store This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup feeds about 6 hearty portions and is wonderful when served piping hot with all your favorite toppings. For storing, let it cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and it tastes just as amazing.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Mexican Rice

Fluffy and seasoned, it makes a great side to balance the soup.

Classic Caprese Salad

The fresh tomatoes and mozzarella add a cooling contrast to the warmth of the soup. See the recipe here

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

While not traditional, naan works surprisingly well to scoop up the broth. Try the recipe

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

Lightly roasted veggies offer a healthy and satisfying side. Check this one out

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

If you want something rich and filling on the side. Get the recipe here

Tortilla Chips and Guacamole

Always a crowd-pleaser and a natural fit.

Grilled Quesadillas

Perfectly crisped and cheesy, they complement the soup well.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup, here are some other comforting bowls you’ll want to try:

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for something rich and hearty.
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque if you’re feeling a little fancy.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce to transform your weeknight dinner.
Vegan Creamy Mushroom Ramen for a cozy and plant-based twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so it’s ready whenever you are.

Let me know how yours turned out. Did you load it with toppings or keep it light? Add some spice or dial it down?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to these recipes. Ask away in the comments if you have any questions!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comforting dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your new favorite dinner ideas.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of those feel-good meals that brings warmth and ease to your day. It’s simple enough for weeknights but satisfying enough to serve guests. With layers of flavor and endless ways to top it, this soup will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.