I stumbled upon this gem by accident when I was trying to use up leftover chicken and some taco spices. It was one of those chilly evenings where all you want is something warm and comforting. As I threw everything into the pot, the aroma of spices and simmering chicken started to fill the kitchen, and I knew I had something special.
The beauty of this chicken taco soup is how it transforms simple ingredients into a cozy, one-pot dinner everyone loves. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those nights when you need comfort without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken taco soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, so you can feed a family or a group of friends with ease. And the best part? It’s all done in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Recipe Overview
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Category: Soup
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
What You’ll Need
When I shop for this recipe, I always look for organic chicken broth because it adds a depth of flavor that you can’t beat. If you’re on a budget, store brands can work just as well, especially if you jazz them up with a bit of extra seasoning.
Chicken Taco Soup – Cozy, One-Pot Dinner Everyone Loves
INGREDIENTS
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Taco Soup – Cozy, One-Pot Dinner Everyone Loves!
Nutrition Information
Ingredients play different roles here: the chicken is your protein base, the beans add heartiness, and the spices bring the taco flair. Don’t forget the corn; it adds a sweetness that balances the heat from the chili powder.
INGREDIENTS
There’s something almost meditative about prepping the ingredients for this soup. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the earthy smell of the spices make it feel like you’re about to create something magical. Plus, it’s a great time to sneak in a quick kitchen dance to your favorite song.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
PREPARATION
One trick I’ve learned is to let the soup simmer longer if you have the time. It deepens the flavors and makes the chicken super tender. Don’t worry if you’re short on time, though; it’s delicious even if you cook it for the minimum time.
- In a large pot, add 1 pound of chicken breasts and 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add 1 can of black beans, 1 can of corn, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 can of diced green chilies to the pot.
- Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup for an additional 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
Expert Tips for Making the Best Chicken Taco Soup
One thing to remember is that the quality of your chicken broth can make or break this soup. Opt for a rich, flavorful broth to elevate the dish.
Customizing Your Soup
Here’s a tip: if you like your soup spicier, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. You can also play around with different beans or even add some quinoa for extra texture.
Storing and Reheating
A note on storing: this soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and it’s like you just made it fresh.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this chicken taco soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can easily swap the chicken for ground turkey or even go meatless with extra beans or tofu.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely, this recipe freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
