Soups & Stews
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This slow cooker chicken tortilla soup is a true dump-and-go recipe: everything goes into the crock in the morning, and six hours later you have a smoky, slightly spicy broth loaded with shredded chicken, black beans and corn. Top it with crushed tortilla chips, avocado and a squeeze of lime for the kind of soup that tastes like it simmered all day, because it did — without any effort on your part.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Just dump and go — no searing required
- Freezer-friendly for easy meal prep
- Naturally gluten-free (check your broth and chips)
- Customizable toppings bar the whole family enjoys
Ingredients
Full ingredient list below — check off items as you shop or cook.
Instructions
- Add the chicken, black beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic, green chiles and broth to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika and salt.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken shreds easily with a fork.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot and stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust salt as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Tips for success
- Shredding the chicken directly in the warm broth lets it soak up extra flavor before serving.
- For a thicker soup, mash a portion of the black beans against the side of the pot before serving.
- Add the tortilla strips just before eating so they stay crunchy instead of going soggy.
- This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months — just leave off the toppings until reheated.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer all the ingredients (except toppings) in a large pot for about 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
Is chicken tortilla soup gluten-free?
The soup itself is naturally gluten-free; just confirm your broth and any store-bought tortilla strips don't contain gluten.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes — skip adding raw chicken and stir in about 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How spicy is this recipe?
It's mild to medium; the diced green chiles add gentle heat, so add sliced jalapeño or hot sauce if you want it spicier.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 312 |
| Protein | 29g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
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