Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup (Set & Forget)

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and fuss-free meal, look no further than this Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup (Set & Forget). It’s a vibrant blend of tender chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a medley of spices, all simmered to perfection in one pot. The best part? You can literally set it in the morning and come back to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner that feels like it was made with hours of love, even on your busiest days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the ultimate weeknight winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy — just toss everything into your crockpot and walk away. No standing over the stove, no last-minute rush. Second, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. Third, it’s versatile and perfect for meal prep; it freezes beautifully and tastes just as amazing the next day. And lastly, the toppings — fresh avocado, crunchy tortilla strips, melty cheese, and fragrant cilantro — add layers of texture and brightness that make every spoonful a delight.

What’s in the Bowl

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the tender protein base that soaks up all the spices.
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – for a creamy, earthy texture and extra fiber.
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained – adds subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – brings a tangy, mildly spicy kick.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – foundational flavor and a touch of sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and savory, a must-have in any good soup.
• 1 cup chicken broth – the liquid that ties all the flavors together.
• 1 tsp ground cumin – earthy warmth that’s signature to Mexican-inspired dishes.
• 1 tsp chili powder – adds depth and gentle heat.
• 1/2 tsp salt – enhances all the natural flavors.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – a subtle bite to balance the spices.
• 1 cup tortilla strips – crisp topping to add crunch and authenticity.
• 1 avocado, diced – creamy and cooling to balance the spices.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) – melty, cheesy goodness.
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish – bright, herbal finish.

Equipment at a Glance

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: The star of the recipe, ideal for hands-off cooking.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping onion, garlic, and avocado.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Precision for spices and liquids.
• Can opener: To open beans, corn, and tomatoes.
• Spoon or ladle: For serving and stirring.

Build Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup (Set & Forget) Step by Step

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by rinsing and draining your black beans and corn. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. Dice the avocado and set aside for topping later.

Step 2: Layer the Crockpot

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Then add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top.

Step 3: Season and Add Broth

Sprinkle the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the ingredients. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered.

Step 4: Set and Forget

Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and shred easily.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crunchy tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy the layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

Smart Substitutions

• Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly (skip chicken, add extra beans or veggies).
• Replace black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans for a slightly different texture.
• Use fresh diced tomatoes and chopped green chilies if you prefer less canned ingredients.
• For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• If you don’t have a crockpot, you can make this soup in a large pot on the stove; simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Flavor Logic

This soup balances savory, spicy, creamy, and crunchy elements to create a well-rounded experience:

• Chicken breasts provide a mild, lean protein that absorbs spices beautifully.
• Black beans and corn add substance and natural sweetness.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies bring acidity and subtle heat.
• Cumin and chili powder create the warm, earthy backbone essential for Mexican-inspired dishes.
• Avocado and cheese cool down the spice and add creaminess.
• Tortilla strips introduce crunch, mimicking the traditional crispy tortilla garnish.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The tortilla strips are best added fresh at serving time to maintain their crunch.

For longer storage, freeze the soup (without toppings) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add fresh avocado, cheese, and tortilla strips when serving to keep the textures vibrant.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes! You can start with frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot, but be sure to increase the cook time slightly (about 1-2 hours longer on low) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Is this soup spicy?

This recipe has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder and diced tomatoes with green chilies. You can adjust the spice by adding more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce, or reduce it by using mild diced tomatoes.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Prepare it in advance, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I serve alongside this soup?

Warm, fluffy tortillas or homemade cornbread pair beautifully with this soup. For a lighter side, a simple green salad or Easy Chicken Enchiladas complement the flavors perfectly.

Because You Liked This

• Try the hearty and delicious One Pot Enchilada Soup for another cozy Mexican-inspired bowl.
• For a comforting dinner, check out Easy Chicken Enchiladas, a fan favorite.

Bring It to the Table

Gather your family or friends and serve this Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup (Set & Forget) in colorful bowls topped with creamy avocado, melty cheese, and fresh cilantro. Add a handful of crunchy tortilla strips just before eating for that perfect bite every time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this soup is a warm hug in a bowl that brings everyone together with its rich, comforting flavors and effortless preparation.

This soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a vibrant and wholesome meal without the hassle. And if you love this recipe, don’t forget to explore other slow cooker favorites that bring the same ease and taste to your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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