Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup: Easy, Flavorful, and Hands-Off

Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is the ultimate weeknight dinner hack. With just 10 minutes of prep and your slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful soup ready to serve your family. The best part? This recipe is totally hands-off until the very end.

When I say this easy chicken tortilla soup is a game-changer, I mean it. Traditional tortilla soup recipes require long prep and constant attention on the stove. But this slow cooker version? Toss in your ingredients, set it, and forget it—literally. Your crock pot delivers fall-apart tender chicken and bold, zesty flavors while you’re busy tackling your day. Let me show you just how simple (and delicious!) this recipe really is.

Why This Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Is a Game-Changer

• 10 minutes of prep: Dice, pour, and stir—easy enough to whip up before your morning coffee.
• Hands-off cooking: Let the crock pot work its magic for 8–10 hours while you focus on everything else.
• Tender, juicy chicken: Slow-cooking ensures perfectly shredded chicken that’s packed with flavor.
• One-pot clean-up: Forget about scrubbing multiple pans. Everything happens right in your crock pot.
• Customizable: Add beans, swap out toppings, or adjust spice levels easily.

If you’re short on time but still want a big, comforting bowl of soup, this is your answer. It’s like having a personal chef at home (except it’s your trusty crock pot!).

Equipment You’ll Need for This Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

All you really need for this recipe is a slow cooker. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Slow Cooker (5-quart or larger): A standard-sized crock pot works perfectly here. If you’re cooking for a big family, a 6-quart model offers more space.
• Basic kitchen tools: A knife for dicing onions, a cutting board, and measuring cups/spoons are all you’ll use during prep.
• Two forks: These make shredding the chicken quick and easy!

Tip: If you’re in the market for a slow cooker, look for one with a programmable timer. It’s a lifesaver for busy days.

Simple Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

This recipe relies on pantry staples and fresh ingredients, so you might already have everything you need. Here are some key highlights:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and shred beautifully after slow cooking. As a shortcut, you can use frozen chicken (just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time).
• Diced tomatoes with green chiles: Rotel is my go-to for that perfect blend of tangy tomato and mild heat. If you prefer more spice, try the “Hot” version!
• Enchilada sauce: This adds a rich, savory depth to the broth. Both red and green varieties work, but red is classic for tortilla soup.
• Taco seasoning: Use a store-bought packet for convenience or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.

Pro tip: Feel free to toss in a can of black beans or pinto beans for extra protein and texture.

Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe Details

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 hours (hands-off!)
• Total Time: 10 hours 25 minutes

Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5-ounce can chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 15.25-ounce can corn, undrained
• 10-ounce can diced tomatoes and green chiles (Rotel), undrained
• 10-ounce can enchilada sauce
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Shredded cheese, for topping
• Crunchy tortilla strips, for topping

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

1. Place chicken breasts in the bottom of a 5-quart slow cooker. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Add onion and garlic on top of the chicken.
3. Pour in chicken broth, water, corn (including liquid), diced tomatoes with green chiles, and enchilada sauce.
4. Sprinkle taco seasoning and chili powder over the mixture, then stir gently.
5. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 8–10 hours.
6. About 15 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
7. Cook for an additional 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and crunchy tortilla strips.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Prep the night before: Dice the onion and garlic, then refrigerate with the other ingredients. In the morning, dump everything into the slow cooker and you’re set.
• No chopping hack: Use frozen diced onions and pre-minced garlic to save even more time!
• Bold flavor boost: Add a splash of lime juice and fresh cilantro just before serving for a zesty finish.
• Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half. It reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners.
• Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Easy Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add 1–2 cans of beans (such as black or kidney beans).
• Spicy kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese right before serving.
• Load it up: Top with diced avocado, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a customizable bowl.

Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks to pull the chicken apart. For even faster shredding, use a hand mixer on low speed!

Can I make this soup spicier?

Definitely. Toss in some diced jalapeños or use the “Hot” version of Rotel diced tomatoes.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Is this soup healthy?

Yes, it’s low in fat and calories, with just 172 kcal per serving. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies!

Now it’s your turn: What toppings will you pair with this Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup? Leave a comment below—I can’t wait to hear your ideas!