Chicken Taco Soup

If you’re looking for a warm and satisfying dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, Chicken Taco Soup is the perfect choice. This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of chicken, beans, and spices in a delicious, comforting bowl. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings, offering the perfect balance of spice, protein, and savory goodness.

What is Chicken Taco Soup?

Chicken Taco Soup is a Mexican-inspired dish that combines shredded chicken, beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, giving it a taste reminiscent of taco night in a bowl. The soup is typically made with either shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts, making it a quick and convenient meal. Topped with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips, this soup is a flavorful and customizable meal for everyone to enjoy.

Ingredients for Chicken Taco Soup

This recipe is both simple and versatile, with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious pot of Chicken Taco Soup:

• Chicken breast or rotisserie chicken: The base of this soup, providing lean protein.
• Canned tomatoes: A mix of diced and sometimes fire-roasted for extra flavor.
• Canned beans: Typically black beans and kidney beans for a hearty texture.
• Corn kernels: Adds sweetness and texture to the soup.
• Chicken broth: A rich and savory base for the soup.
• Taco seasoning: The secret to that taco flavor you crave.
• Chopped onion and garlic: For an aromatic base to build flavor.
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crushed tortilla chips.

How to Make Chicken Taco Soup

this recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

If you’re using chicken breasts, cook them in a pot with a bit of olive oil until they are fully cooked, then shred the meat using two forks. Alternatively, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.

Step 3: Add the Canned Ingredients

To the pot, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Spices

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 5: Add the Shredded Chicken

Once the soup has simmered, add the shredded chicken to the pot. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure everything is hot and flavorful.

Step 6: Serve and Top

Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with your favorite taco toppings. Sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crushed tortilla chips all make great additions to enhance the flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Taco Soup

• Easy to Make: The recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal prep time. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Hearty and Filling: With protein-rich chicken, fiber-packed beans, and corn, this soup is a satisfying meal that will keep you full.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level, add more veggies, or switch up the toppings to suit your tastes.
• One-Pot Meal: This soup is made in a single pot, meaning fewer dishes and easy cleanup!

Tips for the Best Chicken Taco Soup

• Spice it Up: If you like a bit more heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to your soup.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamy version, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream as the soup simmers.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use extra beans or vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Slow Cooker Option: If you have more time, you can make Chicken Taco Soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, set it on low, and cook for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion

Chicken Taco Soup is an easy, comforting, and flavorful meal that brings the taste of tacos into a soup form. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or serving a crowd, this soup is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and plenty of options for customization, it’s the ultimate dish for taco lovers. Try it today, and enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl of homemade goodness!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken Taco Soup

Chicken Taco Soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving and storing. Here are some useful tips to help you serve and store this tasty dish for maximum enjoyment and convenience.

Serving Tips

1. Toppings Make a Difference: One of the best parts of Chicken Taco Soup is the toppings! Add a variety of toppings to let everyone customize their bowl. Some great options include:

• Sour cream: For creaminess and a cool contrast to the spice.
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work well.
• Cilantro: Fresh, chopped cilantro adds a bright, herbal note.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime adds a zesty kick.
• Tortilla chips: Crushed chips give the soup a satisfying crunch.
• Avocado slices or guacamole: For a creamy texture and rich flavor.

1. Pair with a Side: Chicken Taco Soup can be served as a main dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:

• Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread complements the savory soup.
• Rice: A side of cilantro-lime rice or even plain white rice can make the meal heartier.
• Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

1. Garnish with Crunch: Besides crushed tortilla chips, you can add crispy fried onions or crunchy tostadas as garnish to provide an extra layer of texture.

Storage Tips

1. How to Store Leftovers:

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, Chicken Taco Soup will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Chicken Taco Soup. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Frozen soup can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop.

1. Reheating Leftovers:

• Stovetop: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely with a lid, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway through for even reheating.

1. Avoid Freezing Toppings: While the soup itself freezes well, toppings like sour cream, cheese, and avocado don’t freeze well. Store these separately and add them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Taco Soup is not only a crowd-pleasing meal but also incredibly convenient for leftovers. With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this tasty dish for several days, keeping it fresh and delicious with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing it for the week or looking to store extras for later, Chicken Taco Soup is a meal that works for any occasion!

1. Can I make Chicken Taco Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Chicken Taco Soup is perfect for the slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (chicken, beans, tomatoes, corn, broth, taco seasoning, and aromatics) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once cooked, shred the chicken and stir to combine. It’s an easy, hands-off way to make this dish!

2. Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken is the most common protein for Chicken Taco Soup, you can easily substitute it with ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork for a different flavor profile. Just cook the meat as usual and follow the recipe. The seasoning and other ingredients will complement a variety of proteins.

3. Is Chicken Taco Soup spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on the taco seasoning and any additional ingredients you choose to add. If you like a milder version, you can use a mild taco seasoning or skip the chili powder. For those who enjoy a spicier soup, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

4. Can I make Chicken Taco Soup ahead of time?

Yes, Chicken Taco Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. In fact, the flavors often get better as it sits! You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store any toppings (like sour cream, cheese, and avocado) separately, and add them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

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