Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla chips, for serving; Shredded cheese, for serving; Avocado, for serving; Sour cream, for serving; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

As the chilly nights draw in and the days get shorter, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup. Bursting with colorful ingredients and vibrant Mexican flavors, this delightful dish fills your home with inviting aromas that beckon you to the kitchen. Imagine the sizzle of garlic mingling with earthy spices, wafting through the air and creating a cozy atmosphere for family and friends. By the time you serve it, the rich scents of shredded chicken, black beans, and zesty tomatoes will have everyone gathering around the table in eager anticipation.

Whether it’s a busy weekday requiring minimal effort or a delightful meal for a family gathering, this soup is the perfect solution. Toss everything in your crockpot in the morning, and by dinner, you have a flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug—a perfect antidote to the hectic pace of life.

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 300
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 7g
Sodium: 700mg
Fiber: 8g

(Nutrition information has been verified using the USDA FoodData Central and other trusted sources.)

Why Make This Recipe

This Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is a culinary delight that’s as appealing to the taste buds as it is to the nose. The combination of tender chicken, creamy black beans, and zesty diced tomatoes create a symphony of flavors that warm your soul. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy—minimal prep with maximum rewards. Ideal for cozy evenings at home, casual get-togethers with friends, or as a quick meal prep option for the week, you simply can’t go wrong with this recipe.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips, for serving
Shredded cheese, for serving
Avocado, for serving
Sour cream, for serving
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.
Stir to combine the ingredients gently.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it with two forks and mix it back into the soup.
Serve hot with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.

Cooking Tips: To prevent overcooking the chicken, consider using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures perfectly tender chicken that shreds effortlessly.

How to Serve

This soup can be served plain, but elevate your meal by garnishing it with tortilla chips for crunch, shredded cheese for creaminess, fresh avocado slices for richness, and a dollop of sour cream for tang. It pairs deliciously with a side of cornbread or a light salad, making it a versatile addition to your dining table.

How to Store

To store your leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips

Flavor Enhancements: For a bolder flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a splash of lime juice just before serving.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a delightful brightness to the soup, but you can substitute parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving or stir in a small amount of masa harina.

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Gluten-Free: Ensure that your tortilla chips and any toppings (like cheese) are labeled gluten-free.
Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, add more chili powder or fresh chopped chilies to the mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the crockpot. Just increase the cooking time slightly.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? You can substitute with vegetable broth or even stock made from bouillon cubes dissolved in water.
How can I adjust the spice level? To reduce spiciness, omit the diced tomatoes with green chilies and use regular diced tomatoes instead.
What can I do with leftovers? Leftover soup can be repurposed into burritos, poured over nachos, or served with a side of rice.
Can I make this in advance? Absolutely! The flavors deepen when refrigerated overnight, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Conclusion

With its enticing aroma and mouthwatering flavor, Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. This easy, comforting dish strikes the perfect balance between warmth and zest, making it ideal for any occasion. I encourage you to try the recipe, play around with variations, and make it your own. Share your experiences and any exciting twists you’ve added—I would love to hear your feedback!