Chicken Taco Soup
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Chicken Taco Soup is a comforting, satisfying dish that invites you into a world of flavor with every spoonful. This hearty soup combines the bold taste of chicken, savory spices, and an array of colorful ingredients to create a delightful explosion of the senses. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when you’re hosting family and friends, it’s a one-pot meal that feels special without demanding hours of kitchen time.
Why make this recipe
Imagine a bowl of warm, zesty soup on a chilly evening. That’s just one of the reasons this Chicken Taco Soup should take center stage on your dining table. It’s not only quick and budget-friendly but also a hit with kids and adults alike. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant veggies, this dish is a complete meal that makes cleanup a breeze—everything cooks in one pot. Plus, with its enticing aroma and zesty flavors, it’s bound to bring smiles all around.
“This soup has quickly become a family favorite! It’s so easy to make and tastes incredible with those crunchy tortilla chips on top!” – Sarah, enthusiastic home cook.
Preparing Chicken Taco Soup
Cooking Chicken Taco Soup is a straightforward process that rewards you with dynamic flavors. The method involves sautéing fresh ingredients, simmering the chicken with spices and veggies, and finally shredding the tender chicken to mingle back into the soup. You’ll have a heartwarming dish simmering away in no time, just waiting to be enjoyed!
What you’ll need
Here’s a complete list of the ingredients that will create your Chicken Taco Soup sensation:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (diced, seeds removed for milder flavor)
- 2 whole skinless boneless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup salsa
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for added crunch)
- 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 lime (cut into quarters)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Feel free to customize with your favorite beans or spices—this soup is quite forgiving.
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s dive into the simple steps to bring this delicious Chicken Taco Soup to life:
In a large pot over medium-high heat, pour in the vegetable oil. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions soften.
Next, lay the chicken breasts at the bottom of the pot. Layer in the rest of your ingredients: chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks, then stir it back into the soup.
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with crushed tortilla chips, cheddar cheese, a lime quarter, and fresh cilantro for that final touch of freshness.
Best ways to enjoy it
Chicken Taco Soup can be a centerpiece on its own, but don’t hesitate to pair it with a side of cornbread, avocado slices, or even a light salad to round out the meal. You could also serve it with extra lime wedges and hot sauce for those who crave an extra kick.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but possible), you can store your Chicken Taco Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. For reheating, just warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens or an extra layer of flavor.
Helpful cooking tips
To take your Chicken Taco Soup to the next level, consider the following pro tips:
- For even more flavor, add a tablespoon of taco seasoning or a dash of smoked paprika.
- If you love a thicker, heartier soup, add a bit of masa harina or cornmeal mixed with water during the simmering stage.
- For an easy shortcut, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your chicken from scratch—just add it toward the end to warm it through.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Taco Soup! Swap out chicken for turkey or even black beans for added protein. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with zucchini or bell peppers and use vegetable broth. You could also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for some spice or add toppings like avocado and sour cream for an indulgent finish.
Common questions
What is the prep time for Chicken Taco Soup?
Preparation takes around 10-15 minutes, while cooking time is about 30 minutes, making this a quick meal overall!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just ensure they are fully thawed before shredding.
Is this soup spicy?
The level of heat in this soup can be adjusted by modifying the amount of jalapeño or opting for a milder salsa. It’s customizable to suit your spice tolerance!
With these details in hand, you’re well on your way to preparing a delightful Chicken Taco Soup that will warm hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Chicken Taco Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, pour in the vegetable oil. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions soften.
- Lay the chicken breasts at the bottom of the pot. Layer in the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks, then stir it back into the soup.
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with crushed tortilla chips, cheddar cheese, a lime quarter, and fresh cilantro for that final touch.
