Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
A Cozy Bowl of Southwestern Comfort
Introduction
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a heartwarming Tex-Mex classic filled with tender shredded chicken, bold flavors, and a satisfying mix of textures. It’s incredibly simple — just toss in the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and return to a delicious, nourishing meal.
Origin
This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Mexican tortilla soups, which feature chicken, tomatoes, chili, and crispy tortilla strips. As slow cookers gained popularity in American kitchens, this beloved dish was adapted into an easy “set-it-and-forget-it” version.
Cultural Significance
This soup represents:
- Comfort food shared with family and friends
- The blend of Mexican culinary heritage with modern cooking convenience
- A staple in cold-weather seasons, tailgates, and potlucks
Warm bowls like this bring people together around the table!
Ingredients & Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pace Picante Sauce | 1 cup |
| Condensed cream of chicken soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 3–4 medium |
| Black beans, rinsed and drained | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Whole kernel corn, drained | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel) | 1 can (10 oz) |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Taco seasoning | 1 packet (1 oz) |
For Serving / Garnish
- Crunchy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend)
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced avocado
Optional Additions
- Add 1 diced onion for extra flavor
- Stir in 1 cup of cooked rice before serving for heartiness
- Spice boost: add jalapeños or hot sauce
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat canned soup for creamier texture
- Prefer thighs? Swap in boneless skinless thighs — they shred beautifully
- For thicker soup, reduce broth to 1 cup
- Always season to taste before serving
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
- Add picante sauce, cream of chicken soup, beans, corn, tomatoes, chicken broth, and taco seasoning.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook:
- Low: 6–7 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
- Remove chicken and shred using two forks.
- Return shredded chicken to slow cooker and stir.
- Serve hot with tortilla strips and your favorite toppings.
Description
Every spoonful delivers tender chicken, creamy broth, mild heat, and bits of corn and beans — topped with crisp tortilla strips that add crunch and a burst of flavor. It’s comfort food with a fun Tex-Mex twist!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per bowl — 8 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~310 |
| Carbohydrates | ~28g |
| Protein | ~24g |
| Fat | ~13g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~950mg |
(Varies by toppings & ingredient brands.)
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup is a cozy, flavor-packed dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but delicious enough for company. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy a hearty meal.
Recommendation
Pair with a simple green salad or warm cornbread for a complete and comforting dinner experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy this soup as part of a balanced lifestyle — it nourishes, satisfies, and brings joy to the table. Share generously, savor slowly, and celebrate the warmth of good food and community.