Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly. The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and a mix of spices makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With the addition of crispy tortilla strips, fresh toppings, and a long simmer in the slow cooker, it delivers the perfect balance of flavors. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for busy days.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
onion, chopped
garlic cloves, minced
fire-roasted diced tomatoes
chicken broth
black beans, drained and rinsed
corn kernels
green chilies, diced
ground cumin
chili powder
lime juice
olive oil
salt and pepper
tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
fresh cilantro, chopped
sour cream
sliced avocado

directions

Place the chicken breasts (or thighs), onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, corn, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the soup and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, add lime juice, and stir to combine.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips, cheese, cilantro, sour cream, and sliced avocado.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6-7 hours (low setting)
Total time: 6 hours 10 minutes – 7 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.
For a spicier version, increase the chili powder or add hot sauce.
Substitute the chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different twist.
Top with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.

Can I make this soup spicy?
Absolutely! Add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to spice it up.

Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, you can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla strips.

Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook this soup on the stovetop. Simply simmer the ingredients in a large pot for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and tender.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy days. It’s loaded with protein, veggies, and the delicious crunch of tortilla strips, making it a satisfying dish for the whole family. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to be a hit!