Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup with Fresh Flavors
Nothing beats a comforting bowl of chicken tortilla soup on a chilly day. Made in a crockpot, this recipe is the perfect blend of ease and flavor, letting you toss in the ingredients and come back to a flavorful, ready-to-eat meal. With fresh ingredients, tender chicken, and the bold taste of spices, this soup will soon become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless and Delicious – Just set it and forget it! The crockpot does all the work, infusing the soup with rich flavors.
Perfect for Busy Days – Simply add the ingredients, and let it cook while you go about your day.
Loaded with Fresh Ingredients – This soup features vibrant vegetables, juicy chicken, and zesty spices that elevate its taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for this flavorful crockpot chicken tortilla soup:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can of black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 can of corn (drained)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can of green chilies (4 oz)
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- Tortilla strips (for serving)
Pro Tip: For a creamier soup, add a small can of enchilada sauce or 1 cup of salsa verde before cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this flavor-packed, hearty soup:
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Chop the onion and garlic, and rinse the black beans. This minimal prep work is all you need before loading up the crockpot.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, green chilies, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and spices. Stir to combine everything and evenly distribute the spices.
Pro Tip: If you like an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for added heat!
3. Cook on Low
Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
4. Shred the Chicken
After the soup has cooked, use a pair of forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. This adds to the texture and makes the soup even more filling.
5. Add Fresh Lime Juice
Stir in the juice of one lime to give the soup a bright, fresh finish. This final step brings out all the flavors.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup hot, topped with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips. Add extra toppings like sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Tips and Toppings to Customize Your Soup
Make this soup your own by adding toppings and sides to make it even more satisfying:
- Tortilla Chips: Crush them on top or use them as dippers.
- Avocado: Adds creaminess and a fresh taste.
- Cheese: A handful of shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Sour Cream: Adds a touch of tangy creaminess.
Pro Tip: Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for easy meal prep! This soup freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken in the crockpot?
A: Absolutely! If you have cooked rotisserie chicken, simply shred it and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to absorb the flavors without becoming overcooked.
Q: How do I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Simply swap the chicken for extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a satisfying, vegetarian version.
Q: Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
A: Yes! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all other ingredients to a large pot. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, and you’re set.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Meal Prepping
This chicken tortilla soup is a great option for meal prep because it stores well and tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to mingle. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is packed with fresh flavors and is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a warm, comforting meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. Try it out, customize it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of crockpot cooking!
