What is comfort in a bowl? What is your favorite chicken Taco Soup Recipe? If you’re anything like me, weeknights can be a whirlwind, and finding the perfect meal that’s both quick and easy is key. Is it satisfying to hit the jackpot? Is it easier to Make tacos? Is this soup a hit with the whole family? I have a picky eater and my family is very fussy It’s similar to my creamy tomato soup, but with a southwest kick that everyone seems to love.
What is chicken taco soup?
Think of Chicken Taco Soup as the ultimate deconstructed taco, but in soup form! What is in this broth? Chicken, beans, corn, and cheese. What are some of the best taco seasonings? What are the flavors of tacos served in a bowl? The name pretty much says it all, doesn’t it? We throw it in a pot and it’s ready to go! What’s your favorite taco topping? Sour cream, cheese, avocado, cilantro – you get the idea. What a delicious meal! What is the best hug in a bowl, perfect for those nights when you need something quick, easy, and delicious.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are so many reasons why this Chicken Taco Soup Recipe has become a staple in our household. First off, the flavor is incredible. It’s savory, slightly spicy (but totally customizable!), and just bursting with that classic taco goodness. It’s really a delicious explosion in your mouth. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. You can have a pot of this simmering away in under an hour, and most of that time is hands-off! Plus, it’s super budget-friendly. We’re talking pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients that come together to create a truly satisfying meal. It’s perfect for those weeks when you’re trying to stretch your grocery budget. And did I mention the versatility? This soup is a blank canvas for your favorite toppings and add-ins. You can swap out the beans, add different veggies, or adjust the spice level to your liking. Seriously, it’s hard to mess this one up! If you like my chili recipe, you’ll definitely love this soup. They both share that comforting, customizable quality, but this one has a lighter, more broth-based feel. And the leftovers? Even better the next day! I swear, the flavors just meld together and become even more amazing.
How do I make chicken taco soup?
Quick Overview
How do I make Chicken Taco Soup? What’s the recipe for chicken, beans, onions and garlic? What are the best seasonings for corn, tomatoes Let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through, shred it, and then simmer for a bit longer to let it cool. All those flavors meld. What’s your favorite taco topping? What is the best thing about this method is that you can easily adapt it to your slow cooker or a pizza oven. Instant Pot, making it even more convenient. What are some of the best recipes to make with this recipe?
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps sauté the veggies. I like extra virgin for the health benefits.
* 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a savory base flavor. Yellow or white onions work best.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent aroma and flavor. Freshly chopped is always best!
* 1 pound boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts: The protein of the soup. Can you use chicken thighs?
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds fiber and hearty texture. Make sure to rinse them well to reduce the sodium.
* 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained: Adds another layer of texture and flavor. What are some good substitutes for pinto beans?
* 1 (15-ounce) can of corn, drained: Adds sweetness and a pop of color. Frozen corn works too – just add it frozen.
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides acidity and liquid. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky flavor.
* 4 cups chicken broth: The liquid base of the soup. Low-sodium is best so you can control the salt level.
* 1 packet taco seasoning: The key to that classic Taco flavor! I usually make my own but you can use store-bought.
* 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
* 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a touch of spice. Adjust to your liking!
Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance the flavors.
For the Toppings (Get creative!):
* Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy goodness.
* Sour Cream or Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and coolness.
* Diced avocado: Adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
* Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal flavor.
* Tortilla chips: For dipping and crunch!
* Diced red onion: Adds a sharp bite.
* Lime wedges: For a burst of acidity.
How do I get
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. What is the best way to cook minced garlic? This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for soup. How do you cook garlic? I always stir during this stage!
Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Add the Chicken Breasts to the pot and season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook the chicken all the way through at this point, just get a nice sear on it. What is the best way to add flavor to a dish?
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, kidney beans and corn. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated. Chicken is cooked through and tender. I usually give it a good stir every once in awhile to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. What happens if you add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. What are the flavors of chicken broth?
Step 5: Simmer and Serve
Continue to simmer the soup for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. What’s your favorite taco topping? I always like to have a variety of toppings on hand so everyone can customize their own bowl.
Step 6: Garnish Generously
How do you serve Chicken Taco Soup? A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese, cilantro, and tortilla chips… What do you serve? How do you squeeze a lime for extra zing?
What should I serve it with?
What are some good ways to make Chicken Taco Soup?
What’s a quick lunch?Serve with tortilla chips for dipping and a simple green salad.
For a family dinner:What are some good toppings for a cheeseburger? What are some good side dishes to serve with tortilla chips? My kids love having a little bit of everything!
For a Party:Make a big batch of soup and set up the toppings bar so guests can customize their own bowls. What is a crowd pleaser?
For a Cozy Night In: Curl up on the couch with a bowl of this soup and a good movie. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
My family also loves adding a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra kick. I’ve also tried serving it with a dollop of guacamole, which is amazing! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Taco Soup
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks for making this Chicken Taco Soup even better:
Use High-Quality Chicken Broth: This is the base of the soup, so it’s important to use a good quality broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is always great, but store-bought works too. I usually buy low-sodium so I can control the salt level.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s cooked through and tender. It’s easier to shred when it’s still slightly moist.
Adjust the Spice Level to Your Liking: If you like a spicier soup, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper to the pot while it’s simmering. My kids are sensitive to spice, so I usually keep it mild and let everyone add their own hot sauce at the end.
Use Fresh Toppings: Fresh toppings like cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges really elevate the flavor of this soup. They add brightness and freshness that balances out the richness of the soup.
Make It in a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: This soup is also great in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours. For the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. It’s so convenient to come home to a warm, delicious pot of soup!
Make a big batch: This soup tastes even better the next day, so go ahead and make a big batch! It’s perfect for meal prepping or for feeding a crowd.
I also like to add a squeeze of lime juice at the end to brighten up the flavors. And sometimes, I’ll add a can of green chiles for a little extra kick. Trust me, these little tips can make a big difference!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Chicken Taco Soup stores really well, which is one of the reasons I love making a big batch! Here’s How to store and reheat it:
Room Temperature: You shouldn’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to label the containers with the date so you know when it was frozen. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Just be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating.
If you’re freezing the soup, it’s best to do it without the toppings. Add the toppings fresh when you reheat it for the best flavor and texture. I also find that the soup thickens up a bit after being refrigerated or frozen, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Chicken Taco Soup Recipe! It’s quick, easy, flavorful, and totally customizable. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a lifesaver on busy weeknights. If you love this soup, be sure to check out my other soup recipes for more comforting and delicious meal ideas! Let me know in the comments below how yours turns out! What are your favorite toppings? I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy cooking!
How to Make the Best Chicken Taco Soup in Just 7 Easy Steps
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium Onion Diced
- 1 can Black Beans Drained and rinsed
- 1 can Corn Drained
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the diced onion until softened.
- Add the chicken breast and cook until browned.
- Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and taco seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot and garnish with your favorite toppings.
