Quick and Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that can be whipped up in no time, this Chicken Taco Soup is the perfect solution. This Tex-Mex inspired dish combines the savory taste of tender chicken with the rich flavors of corn, black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chiles. Whether you’re in need of a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, this Chicken Taco Soup will not disappoint. Best of all, it’s customizable with your favorite toppings, making it a family-friendly dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Taco Soup

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry, you can have a satisfying meal ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s also versatile; you can adjust the heat level to suit your taste, swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, and even make it ahead of time for those busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Taco Soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 can (15.25 ounces) corn, drained

1 can (15.25 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted tomatoes
1 can (7 ounces) diced green chiles

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips (optional)
Sour cream (optional)
Chopped cilantro (optional)
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Chicken: Any cooked, shredded, or cubed chicken breasts or cooked boneless chicken thighs will work for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a wonderful flavor.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but if you have time, make your own with chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Beans and Corn: For a slightly different texture, you can use frozen corn or even fresh if it’s in season. Feel free to use any type of beans you prefer, such as pinto beans.
Toppings: The optional toppings are highly recommended as they add texture and additional flavors to the soup.

How to Make Chicken Taco Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large Dutch oven or a heavy stockpot. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, add the minced garlic, and cook for an additional minute while stirring continuously. This helps to release the garlic’s flavor without burning it.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Next, pour in the chicken broth and stir in the taco seasoning. The seasoning will start to dissolve into the broth, infusing it with flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Tomatoes

Stir in the drained corn, black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and diced green chiles. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken

Finally, add the cooked, shredded chicken to the pot. Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, just until the chicken is heated through. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of tortilla strips, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Taco Soup

Adjust the Spice Level: This soup is flavorful yet mild. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a few pinches of cayenne pepper, a minced jalapeño, or even some chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
Make Your Own Taco Seasoning: Homemade taco seasoning is easy to make and allows you to control the salt and spice levels. Simply mix chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Use Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it’s perfect for this dish.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to four months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at reduced power to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef for the chicken. Simply brown the beef in the pot before adding the other ingredients.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add more heat, you can include cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Chicken Taco Soup is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure that the taco seasoning you use is also gluten-free.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with all the other ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

What can I serve with Chicken Taco Soup?

This soup pairs well with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with rice for a heartier meal.

How long does Chicken Taco Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Chicken Taco Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to four months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What toppings go well with Chicken Taco Soup?

Popular toppings include tortilla strips, sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

This Chicken Taco Soup is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting bowl of soup. Enjoy!