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Close-up of hearty crockpot chicken tortilla soup with beans, corn, and shredded chicken.
5 from 1 vote

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Warm, hearty, and full of Tex-Mex flavor — this Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner! Made with tender shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and a flavorful enchilada-tomato base, it’s a family favorite that freezes beautifully.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time7 hours
Total Time7 hours 15 minutes
Course: Soup & Stew Recipes
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: healthy chicken tortilla soup
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 318kcal

Ingredients

Soup

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 4 cups chicken broth or stock reduced sodium
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced
  • 4 ounce can mild diced green chiles
  • 10 ounce can mild red enchilada sauce
  • 28 ounce can petite diced tomatoes
  • 8 ounces frozen corn
  • 15 ounce can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 4 ounces Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (check your brand for gluten free)

Toppings (optional)

  • fresh cilantro roughly chopped
  • Sliced avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh lime wedges
  • Thinly sliced radish
  • Green onion tops

Instructions

  • Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 4 cups chicken broth or stock, 2 cups water, 1 small yellow onion, 4 ounce can mild diced green chiles, 10 ounce can mild red enchilada sauce, 28 ounce can petite diced tomatoes, 8 ounces frozen corn, and 15 ounce can black beans. Stir gently to combine.
  • Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  • Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  • Add Tortilla Strips: Stir in tortilla strips just before serving so they soften slightly but keep a little crunch.
  • Garnish and Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes — a squeeze of lime, a spoonful of sour cream, and a sprinkle of cheese make it extra cozy!

Notes

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be substituted for the chicken tenders if you prefer.
Nutrition calculated without toppings
Variations:
  • Swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
  • Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky kick.
  • Add heat with a chopped jalapeño or medium enchilada sauce.
  • For a quick version, use shredded rotisserie chicken and reduce the cook time to 2 hours on low.
  • Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for more beans and using vegetable broth.

Storage & Freezing

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Thaw overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 318kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 52mg | Sodium: 1199mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 8g
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