Is there anything more stressful than the 5 p.m. dinner scramble? You’re trying to get something on the table that’s actually tasty, while also navigating the “I don’t like that” chorus from the kids’ table. I feel you. I’ve been there more times than I can count.
That’s why I’m so excited to share this Zesty Lime & Cilantro Chicken Shrimp Taco Soup with you. It’s my secret weapon for a happy, quiet table. It’s a cozy, one-pot dinner that feels like a fun taco night, but in a cozy, spoonable bowl everyone can customize.
Think of all the best parts of taco Tuesday—the zesty lime, the fresh cilantro, the savory chicken and shrimp—all simmered together in one big pot. The result is a broth that’s bright, flavorful, and packed with protein. Best of all? It comes together with minimal fuss on a busy weeknight.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex Inspired
- Category: Soup / One Pot Meal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why Even My Picky Eaters Love This!
I know the struggle is real. So what makes this taco soup recipe a winner? First, it’s all about the deconstructed approach. Kids can see exactly what’s in their bowl, which is a big win for little skeptics.
The flavors are familiar from taco night, but the broth is mild and inviting. The chicken is tender, the shrimp is fun, and you can load up the toppings. It turns dinner into a build-your-own adventure, which always gets a better reception in my house. If you love this concept, you might also enjoy this homestyle chicken taco soup for another warm, comforting option.
Our Family-Friendly Ingredient List
I promise, nothing fancy here! These are items I almost always have on hand, or can grab in one quick trip.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (or use frozen!)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- For Serving: Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices
How to Get the Kids Involved in Cooking This
Getting kids involved makes them more invested in eating the final product. Here are two super easy jobs they can help with.
Younger kids can be in charge of rinsing the black beans and corn in a colander. It’s a simple, satisfying task. Older kids can safely use kitchen shears to snip the fresh cilantro into the pot at the end. It’s a great way to introduce them to herbs.
The Full Step-by-Step Instructions
Don’t let the ingredient list fool you—this is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps and you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
Zesty Lime & Cilantro Chicken Shrimp Taco Soup Recipe
Our Family-Friendly Ingredient List
The Full Step-by-Step Instructions
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Zesty Lime & Cilantro Chicken Shrimp Taco Soup Recipe!
Nutrition Information
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes, until mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion and bell pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the garlic and taco seasoning. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, and use your spoon to scrape up any tasty bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and the cooked chicken back to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Add the raw shrimp to the pot. They cook very quickly! Simmer for 3-4 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately with all your favorite toppings!
Fun Twists for Different Tastes
Flexibility is key for family meals. Here’s how to make this chicken and shrimp soup work for everyone at your table.
For sensitive palates, serve a plain bowl of the broth with chicken and corn only. You can keep the shrimp, cilantro, and lime juice on the side for others to add. For a creamy twist, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end. For the adults, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon on top is a delicious upgrade.
Storing & Reheating (Perfect for Busy Nights)
This soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. I don’t recommend freezing it with the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. You can freeze the base soup and add fresh shrimp when you reheat.
Nutrition Notes
This is a hearty, balanced meal all on its own! Here’s a quick look at what’s in your bowl.
- High in protein from the chicken and shrimp.
- Good fiber from the black beans and vegetables.
- Packed with vitamin C from the bell peppers and lime.
- Toppings like avocado add healthy fats.
- Using low-sodium broth and beans helps control the salt level.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker version, add everything except the shrimp, lime juice, and cilantro to the pot. Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Add the shrimp, lime, and cilantro in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
My family doesn’t like shrimp. Can I leave it out?
Of course! This recipe is very forgiving. Just use 1.5 pounds of chicken instead. You’ll still have a delicious and zesty chicken taco soup that’s full of flavor. For another bean-packed, shrimp-free option, try this hearty chicken and bean taco soup.
What can I use instead of fresh cilantro?
If cilantro tastes like soap to some in your family (it’s a genetic thing!), just leave it out. The soup will still be fantastic. You can substitute with a little fresh parsley or even a teaspoon of dried oregano for a different herbal note.
I really hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your home like it is in mine. It’s the perfect solution when you need something easy, healthy, and guaranteed to please a crowd with different tastes.
Nothing makes my day more than hearing that a recipe brought a little peace and joy to your family table. I’d love to know if this was a hit with your family! Please leave a comment and rating below!
