Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Name: Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489623H58M3S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 onion (diced); 2 jalapenos (seeded and diced); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast; 3 cups chicken broth; 14 oz crushed tomatoes; 1 can black beans (drained); 1 can southwest corn (drained); 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon table salt; 2 tablespoons corn starch; 8 corn tortillas; 1 tablespoon oil (any kind); 2/3 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Mexican cheese (+more for serving); cilantro (for garnish)

Posted on November 6, 2025

Main Dishes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a deliciously comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This creamy soup combines tender chicken with vibrant flavors from spices and fresh ingredients, making it an instant favorite among family and friends. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it as a hearty dinner or a cozy lunch, while the slow cooker does all the work for you. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of this rich, satisfying soup that warms both your heart and your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic while you go about your day.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of spices, creamy texture, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience.
Customizable Toppings: Load up your soup with tortilla strips, cilantro, or extra cheese to personalize each bowl.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for later.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; just set it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal.
Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for prepping vegetables quickly and safely before adding them to the pot.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensure precise ingredient amounts so that your soup turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 onion (diced)
2 jalapeno (seeded and diced)
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 1/2 pounds chicken breast
3 cups chicken broth (see notes)
14 oz crushed tomatoes (half of a 28oz can)
1 can black beans (drained)
1 can southwest corn (drained)
1 can Ro-Tel (not drained)
2 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon table salt

For Thickening and Serving

2 tablespoon corn starch
8 corn tortillas
1 tablespoon oil (any kind)
2/3 cup heavy cream
1 cup Mexican cheese (+more for serving)
cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Add the first twelve ingredients, from onion to salt, into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Cook on Low

Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking method allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

When there are 30 minutes left of cooking time, mix 2 tablespoons of corn starch with ¼ cup of the chicken broth until smooth. Add this slurry back into the soup and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Tortilla Strips

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the corn tortillas into ¼ inch strips. Toss them in 1 tablespoon of oil and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake for about 8–10 minutes until crispy.

Step 5: Shred Chicken & Finish Soup

Once the cooking time is complete, take out the chicken breasts. Shred them using two forks, then return them back into the crockpot. Stir in heavy cream and Mexican cheese until well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle your creamy soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips and freshly chopped cilantro for garnish. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

Avocado slices: Add creamy avocado for richness and texture.
Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spice and adds creaminess.
Lime wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over each bowl for a zesty kick.

Use Creative Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and an aromatic flavor.
Crushed tortilla chips: Sprinkle on top for extra crunch and flavor contrast.
Diced tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring a refreshing taste to each serving.

Pair with Beverages

Iced tea: A refreshing beverage that complements the soup’s flavors well.
Lemonade: The sweetness of lemonade can balance the spiciness of the soup.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

Bold seasoning: Adjust chili powder and cumin according to your spice preference for an extra kick.
Quality chicken broth: Use homemade or high-quality broth for richer flavor throughout the soup.
Proper shredding technique: Allow the chicken to rest before shredding to retain moisture and tenderness.
Cream consistency: Stir in heavy cream gradually, adjusting until you reach your desired creaminess without overpowering the soup’s flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Serving side dishes alongside your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:

Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices pairs perfectly with the soup’s flavors.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a rich texture that complements the soup beautifully.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft muffins provide a sweet contrast and are great for soaking up the soup.
Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh vegetables balances the richness of the soup.
Cheesy Quesadillas: Melted cheese between tortillas makes for an indulgent side dish that kids love.
Spicy Nachos: Crisp nachos topped with cheese and jalapeños offer a fun, crunchy element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Ignoring ingredient prep: Failing to properly dice your vegetables can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to chop everything uniformly for even texture and flavor.
Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors of your soup. Taste as you go and adjust with more salt or spices if needed.
Skipping the thickening step: Forgetting to add the corn starch slurry can result in a runny soup. Follow the instructions closely for the perfect creamy consistency.
Overcooking the chicken: Leaving chicken in the slow cooker for too long can dry it out. Stick to recommended cooking times and check for doneness.
Neglecting garnishes: Skipping toppings like tortilla strips and cilantro misses out on added flavor and texture. Always serve with fresh garnishes for a complete dish.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.
Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Freezing Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken in my Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it cooks longer, around 8-10 hours on low heat.

What toppings go well with Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup?

Popular toppings include avocado slices, sour cream, and additional cheese for extra creaminess.

How do I make this soup spicier?

To enhance the spice level, add more jalapenos or include a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Can I substitute other proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey or lamb instead of chicken for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the spice level. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion—give it a try!