Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
When it comes to comforting meals that are quick to whip up, my Easy Chicken Taco Soup stands out as a weeknight hero. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a hearty dish ideal for everything from busy family dinners to cozy gatherings with friends. With this one-pot wonder, you can savor all the deliciousness of tacos in a warm, comforting soup—a perfect solution for those chilly evenings or lazy weekends when you crave something satisfying without fussing over lengthy preparations.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s a budget-friendly option that pleases both kids and adults, making it the perfect choice for those busy weeknight dinners when you want everyone at the table without breaking the bank. This soup can be thrown together in just about thirty minutes, which means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the moment.
"This soup is a favorite in our house! It’s easy to make and even easier to customize. I love how warm and cozy it feels, plus the toppings make it feel special." — Jamie, happy home cook
Step-by-step overview
Getting started with this Easy Chicken Taco Soup is as delightful as it is straightforward. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bubbling pot of soup to warm your belly. So, roll up your sleeves! Get your ingredients ready, and let’s dive into how this comforting dish comes together.
What you’ll need
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Tortilla strips
Feel free to swap in different proteins like turkey or tofu, or use frozen veggies to save time!
Cooking method
Step-by-step instructions:
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until the pieces are no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it aside.
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Using the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until they become tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
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Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Stir in the chicken broth.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 20–25 minutes, so the flavors meld together and the chicken becomes tender.
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Finally, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
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Dish it up and top with your choice of optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, green onions, and crunchy tortilla strips.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is fantastic on its own but can be elevated with a few creative serving suggestions. Try adding a dollop of sour cream right before serving for added creaminess, or sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for extra crunch, or serve alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? This soup stores beautifully! Transfer any uneaten soup into airtight containers and store it in the fridge, where it’ll last for about 3–4 days. You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Always be mindful to reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Helpful cooking tips
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Chicken Substitutes: Consider using shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time. Just add it in during the last 10 minutes to heat through.
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Spice Levels: If you like a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the spice level.
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Add Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional veggies like zucchini or carrots for an extra nutritional boost!
Creative twists
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with a meat alternative like lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
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Texture Variations: Blend some of the soup until smooth for a creamier texture—great for those who prefer creamy soups over chunky ones!
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Chunky Salsa: Top with your favorite salsa for an even bigger flavor bomb and add a bit of zest.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this chicken taco soup?
Prep time is approximately 10–15 minutes, with another 30 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup keeps well and the flavors deepen over time, so it’s great for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.
What can I use instead of chicken breast?
You can opt for ground turkey, diced beef, or even firm tofu for a plant-based protein, depending on your preference!
Enjoy crafting this delightful Chicken Taco Soup! Its simplicity, flavor, and adaptability make it a wonderful addition to any recipe collection. Happy cooking!
Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until the pieces are no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Using the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until they become tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Stir in the chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 20–25 minutes, so the flavors meld together and the chicken becomes tender.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Dish it up and top with your choice of optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, green onions, and crunchy tortilla strips.
