Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of dinner ready and waiting for you. That’s where crockpot meals shine, and this Chicken Tortilla Soup is no exception. Loaded with tender chicken, hearty beans, tangy tomatoes, and spices, it’s a deliciously cozy meal perfect for those busy weeknights when time (and energy) feels in short supply. The best part? It’s as simple as tossing a few ingredients into your crockpot and walking away. The result is a flavorful, warm bowl of goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only rich, hearty, and packed with bold flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for families or meal prep, this recipe is versatile—you can make it as mild or as spicy as your taste buds desire. And while the soup itself is a star, the optional toppings like crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and sour cream take it to a whole new level. This dish feels like a hug in a bowl, with minimal effort and maximum reward!
The Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting soup:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained (or 1 cup frozen corn)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Optional Toppings (because toppings make everything better!):
- Crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced avocado
- Jalapeño slices, for a little heat
Instructions
1. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and all the spices. Stir to combine.
2. Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is where the magic happens—your crockpot does all the heavy lifting while you go about your day!
3. Shred the Chicken
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir. Check the seasoning and adjust with more salt or spices, if needed.
4. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings. The crispy tortilla strips, melted cheese, and cool sour cream create a mix of textures and flavors that make every spoonful irresistible.
Tips for Success
- Short on Time? Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.
- More Heat, Please: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like your soup spicy.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully! Store in an airtight container for up to three months. Simply thaw and reheat for an effortless meal.
- Homemade Tortilla Strips: If you feel like going the extra mile, cut corn tortillas into thin strips, toss with a little oil, and bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes until crispy.
Why This Soup Works for Everyone
This Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also endlessly adaptable. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for extra beans or diced sweet potatoes. Need it dairy-free? Skip the sour cream and cheese toppings—or opt for a plant-based alternative. This soup works for everyone, making it a great recipe for family dinners, potlucks, or solo comfort meals.
As the weather cools, this recipe is the perfect antidote to chilly evenings. It’s one of those meals that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and your belly with comfort. With minimal prep, easy clean-up, and flavor-packed results, this chicken tortilla soup is bound to become a weeknight staple in no time! Now, grab your slow cooker, gather your toppings, and get ready to savor the easiest dinner you’ve ever made. 🌟
