Easy Chicken Taco Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul and satisfies the whole family, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a delightful choice when you want something hearty yet simple. Plus, whether you’re using your Instant Pot, crock pot, or just a good old stovetop, this recipe adapts beautifully!

What makes this soup so special is its comforting blend of spices and wholesome ingredients. You’ll find that it’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. Just imagine serving up bowls of this delicious soup while everyone gathers around the table—pure joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love tacos, and this soup version is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with lean chicken and beans, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you use an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, this recipe fits your busy schedule.
• Make-Ahead Marvel: Perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful soup, gather these simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together to create a flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

For the Soup Base

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 cup minced onion
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 14 oz can tomato sauce (low or no salt)
• 1 quart chicken broth (low or no salt)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 15 oz can black beans (drained & rinsed – low or no salt)
• 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Easy Chicken Taco Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or shredded beef instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like some heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.
• Go vegetarian: Use chickpeas instead of chicken and vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free option.

How to Make Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add in the minced onion and garlic. Sauté until they are fragrant and translucent—this step enhances their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, add the boneless chicken breasts to the pot. Stir them around for a minute to coat them with all those lovely flavors from the onions and garlic. This will help infuse the chicken with deliciousness as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir in paprika, black pepper, chili powder, and cumin. These spices are what give your Easy Chicken Taco Soup its signature taste! Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Corn

After about 20 minutes of simmering, carefully shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. Then add in those black beans and thawed corn. Let everything cook together for an additional 10 minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls! Feel free to top it off with your favorite garnishes like avocado slices, cilantro, or tortilla chips for added crunch. Enjoy every warm spoonful of your Easy Chicken Taco Soup—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Making this Easy Chicken Taco Soup is a breeze, but a few handy tips will ensure it turns out perfect every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic can enhance the flavor of your soup, giving it a vibrant taste that complements the spices beautifully.
• Don’t skip the spices: The paprika, chili powder, and cumin are essential for giving your soup that authentic taco flavor. Adjust the amounts based on your spice preference for a personalized kick!
• Consider meal prep: Prepare a double batch and store half in the freezer. This way, you have a healthy meal ready to go on those busy days when cooking feels like too much.
• Cook longer for deeper flavors: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer on the stovetop or in your slow cooker. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Shred the chicken after cooking: For a more rustic texture, shred your chicken after it’s cooked. This helps it absorb more of the soup’s flavors and makes each bite delightful.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Serving this delicious soup is just as fun as making it. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances out the spices.
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro brings freshness and a burst of color to your bowl.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating brightens up all the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the spicy soup, adding a comforting touch.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a satisfying contrast and can be used for dipping right into the soup!
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness that complements the hearty soup.
• Rice or quinoa: Serving some fluffy rice or protein-packed quinoa on the side can help soak up any extra broth while providing additional nutrition.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Easy Chicken Taco Soup will be an absolute hit at dinner! Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for days. Plus, it stores well, making your busy weeknights just a little bit easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup!

Can I use other types of chicken for Easy Chicken Taco Soup?

Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

How can I make this Easy Chicken Taco Soup spicier?

To amp up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also top each bowl with spicy salsa for an extra kick!

What toppings go well with Easy Chicken Taco Soup?

Some great toppings include avocado slices, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, or shredded cheese (if you prefer). Feel free to customize based on your taste!

Can I make Easy Chicken Taco Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be hearty and delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Chicken Taco Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a comforting dish but also a wonderful way to gather around the table with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or variations – make it your own! Happy cooking!