Amazing Chicken Taco Soup: 1 Easy Recipe

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Chicken taco soup has become my go-to comfort food, especially on chilly evenings when I crave something both hearty and easy. I first discovered this amazing recipe during a busy week when I needed a quick dinner that my whole family would devour. The aroma of spices and simmering chicken filling my kitchen instantly made our house feel warm and inviting. It’s such a satisfying and delicious chicken taco soup, packed with flavor from the beans, corn, and zesty salsa. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Taco Soup

You’re going to adore this easy chicken taco soup for so many reasons! It’s the perfect weeknight meal that practically makes itself.

It’s incredibly flavorful and hearty, making it a truly satisfying dish.
The simple prep means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your evening.
This is a fantastic one-pot meal, which means minimal cleanup – a win for everyone!
It’s a crowd-pleasing family favorite that even picky eaters will enjoy.
The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!
It’s a healthy chicken taco soup option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
You can customize it with a variety of delicious toppings.

Ingredients for Chicken Taco Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious chicken taco soup. I find using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs makes for tender shredded chicken taco soup. Don’t skip the diced tomatoes and green chilies; they add a fantastic base flavor, and the taco seasoning packet is a key for that authentic taco chicken soup recipe taste.

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – your protein base
1 medium onion, chopped – about 1 cup, for sweetness and depth
2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory aroma
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained – the heart of the flavor
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained – adds protein and fiber
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained – for texture and heartiness
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained – brings a touch of sweetness
4 cups chicken broth – the liquid base for our soup
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning – for that classic taco flavor
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for spicy chicken taco soup) – adjust for your heat preference
Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, crushed tortilla chips – for serving

How to Make Chicken Taco Soup

Making this easy chicken taco soup is a breeze, and the results are incredibly rewarding. You’ll have a flavorful and hearty meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Get your pot ready! Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your 1 pound of chicken breasts or thighs and cook until they’re nicely browned on all sides. This step really locks in the flavor. Once browned, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Time for the aromatics. Add the 1 medium onion, chopped, to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, usually about 5 minutes. You’ll start to smell that lovely onion aroma. Then, toss in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Now for the magic! Stir in the 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained, the 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained, the 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained, and the 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained. Pour in the 4 cups chicken broth and sprinkle in the 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning. If you’re aiming for a spicy chicken taco soup, now’s the time to add the 1 teaspoon chili powder. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Step 4: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for at least 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and become wonderfully tender. This is also where the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a truly satisfying and delicious chicken taco soup.
Step 5: For that classic shredded chicken taco soup texture, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it easily. Return the shredded chicken back into the simmering soup.
Step 6: Taste your creation! Season the chicken taco soup with salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to perfect the flavor.
Step 7: Serve your amazing chicken taco soup hot. Ladle it into bowls and pile on your favorite optional toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh chopped cilantro, creamy sliced avocado, or crunchy tortilla chips. Enjoy this easy weeknight meal!

Amazing Chicken Taco Soup: 1 Easy Recipe - Chicken Taco Soup - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Taco Soup

Want to elevate your chicken taco soup from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years for making this easy chicken taco soup truly shine. Follow these tips for a flavorful and hearty meal every time!

For an even richer flavor, consider browning the chicken thighs over higher heat before adding them to the soup. This caramelization adds a depth you can’t get otherwise.
Don’t be afraid to add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving. It brightens up all the flavors and adds a zesty finish that’s essential for great taco chicken soup.
If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for shredded chicken taco soup. Just shred it and add it in during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Taco Soup?

The real secret to a perfect chicken taco soup is layering flavors and not overcooking the chicken. Sautéing the aromatics well and using a good quality taco seasoning are key. A little lime juice at the end really makes everything pop! For more on flavor layering, check out this guide on unlocking flavor.

Can I make Chicken Taco Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chicken taco soup is actually even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Cool it completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Taco Soup?

A common pitfall is blandness; ensure you season generously and use good quality broth. Another mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Shredding it and returning it to the soup at the end prevents this. For tips on healthy eating, you might find this article on fiber intake helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Taco Soup

This easy chicken taco soup is so versatile, you can serve it in so many delicious ways! It’s a fantastic, hearty meal on its own, but I love to jazz it up with some classic taco accompaniments. For a truly authentic experience, consider pairing it with warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips for scooping. A side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad also makes this a complete and satisfying dinner.

My favorite way to serve this chicken taco soup is with a generous pile of toppings. Think shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh chopped cilantro, and creamy sliced avocado. Don’t forget some crushed tortilla chips for that extra crunch – it really makes this chicken taco soup recipe sing! You might also enjoy this ribbon carrot salad as a side.

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Taco Soup

This hearty chicken taco soup is a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, which is about 1.5 cups. It’s a great option for a healthy chicken taco soup.

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 900mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and topping choices. For more on healthy eating, explore the benefits of hibiscus water.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Taco Soup

Properly storing and reheating this delicious chicken taco soup ensures you can enjoy its amazing flavors for days to come. I always make a big batch because leftovers are fantastic for lunch or a quick dinner. Once the soup has cooled down completely, which usually takes about an hour on the counter, transfer it into airtight containers. This is crucial for maintaining freshness and preventing any freezer burn.

You can store this easy chicken taco soup in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you need to keep it longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. For reheating, you have a few options! You can gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, a microwave-safe bowl works well for a quick reheat; just cover it loosely to prevent splattering.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Taco Soup

Can I make Chicken Taco Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make this easy chicken taco soup in a slow cooker, simply combine all the soup ingredients (except toppings) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot before serving. It’s a fantastic hands-off method for a delicious chicken taco soup.

What kind of chicken is best for Chicken Taco Soup?

You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this chicken taco soup recipe. Thighs tend to be a bit more forgiving and can result in a juicier shredded chicken taco soup, but breasts work perfectly well too. If you’re in a hurry, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! Learn more about making multigrain bread to serve alongside.

How can I make my Chicken Taco Soup spicier?

If you love a spicy chicken taco soup, there are a few ways to kick up the heat! Add an extra teaspoon or two of chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onions and garlic. A dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred in at the end also works wonders.

Can I add different beans or vegetables to this Chicken Taco Soup recipe?

Definitely! This chicken taco soup is very adaptable. Feel free to swap the black beans for kidney beans or cannellini beans. You can also add other vegetables like diced bell peppers (any color!), zucchini, or even corn kernels if you don’t have canned corn. Experimenting with chicken taco soup variations is part of the fun! For example, you could try this zucchini vs cucumber comparison to see how different vegetables behave.

Variations of Chicken Taco Soup You Can Try

This chicken taco soup is incredibly versatile, and I love experimenting with different flavor profiles and cooking methods. If you’re looking for some chicken taco soup variations, here are a few of my favorites that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. These ideas make it easy to create a unique chicken taco soup every time you make it!

Creamy Chicken Taco Soup: For a decadent twist, stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese or about half a cup of heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This transforms it into a luxurious, creamy chicken taco soup that’s incredibly comforting.
Spicy Chicken Taco Soup: If you like a bit of heat, amp up the spice! Add an extra teaspoon of chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a finely diced jalapeño with the onions. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a fiery kick in their chicken taco soup.
Ground Chicken Taco Soup: Prefer a different texture? Instead of chicken breasts or thighs, brown 1 pound of ground chicken with the onions at the beginning. This makes for a wonderfully hearty and easy ground chicken taco soup that’s just as flavorful.
Chicken Taco Soup with Different Beans: Don’t have black and pinto beans? No problem! Kidney beans, cannellini beans, or even a mix of beans work wonderfully in this chicken taco soup. It’s a great way to use up what you have on hand for a delicious chicken taco soup variation.