Go Back

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

A hearty, smoky comfort soup with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and vibrant spices that cooks itself in the slow cooker
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado for serving

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Season both sides with salt and pepper before adding other ingredients.
  2. Layer the diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn over the chicken. Don't worry about stirring at this point.
  3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder evenly over everything. Pour the chicken broth slowly to avoid disturbing the layers. The broth should just cover all ingredients – add more if needed.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You'll know it's ready when the chicken shreds easily with a fork.
  5. Remove the chicken carefully and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir everything together. Add fresh lime juice and taste for seasoning adjustments.

Notes

Quick substitutions: Swap chicken thighs for breasts for extra flavor, use frozen corn instead of canned, or substitute pinto beans for black beans. Make-ahead tip: Prep all vegetables the night before. Don't lift the lid frequently during cooking, avoid adding dairy during cooking process, don't skip the lime juice, and resist over-seasoning initially. Store leftover soup in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop, adding splash of broth if needed.