Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

Nothing warms the soul like a big bowl of chicken taco soup on a chilly day. Growing up, this dish became a staple in my household, especially during long winter evenings. The fragrant spices filled the air as the chicken simmered away, creating a welcoming atmosphere that drew the family together.

Preparing this dish always felt like a mini celebration in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the bell pepper and the rich aroma of garlic blended beautifully with the tender chicken. Each ingredient seems to tell a story, creating layers of flavor that remind me of home. Sharing this hearty recipe becomes a way to connect with family and friends, turning simple gatherings into cherished memories.

The easy chicken taco soup recipe not only satisfies hunger but also warms hearts. With each spoonful, we’re reminded of the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients and the joy they bring when combined in one delicious pot. Let’s explore how to recreate this comforting dish at home.

Easy Chicken Taco Soup Basics

Fundamentals

Creating the perfect easy chicken taco soup starts with understanding the basic components. At its core, this recipe features tender chicken, a medley of beans, corn, and flavorful tomatoes. By using chicken breasts, you ensure a lean and juicy base for your soup.

Employing taco seasoning adds a delightful kick, transforming simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. The combination of black beans and pinto beans not only boosts protein but also enhances the texture of the soup. As it simmers, all the flavors meld into a comforting blend perfect for sharing on a weekday evening or during a weekend gathering.

Preparation/Setup

To kick off your chicken taco soup journey, gather all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need a large pot to accommodate all the tasty components. Set the pot over medium heat and prepare for a delightful cooking experience.

Ensure you have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking. Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic finely to allow their flavors to shine. Dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces will speed up the cooking process. Rinse the beans thoroughly to get rid of any excess sodium. Once everything is prepped, you’re ready to dive into the cooking process.

Ingredients

For this easy chicken taco soup, you will need the following:

• 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

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, which takes about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Then, add the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together to combine.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for 20–25 minutes. This simmering process melds the flavors and helps tenderize the chicken, resulting in a hearty soup.

5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, green onions, or tortilla strips for an extra crunch.

Mastering Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Technique

Creating a delicious easy chicken taco soup relies heavily on technique. Firstly, browning the chicken effectively creates a depth of flavor. This initial step enhances the overall taste and gives the chicken a delightful texture.

Next, the order in which you add ingredients plays a significant role. Sautéing the onions and bell peppers before adding garlic releases their essential oils, enriching the soup’s flavor profile. Finally, ensuring the soup simmers allows all the flavors to come together harmoniously.

Tips/Tricks

To enhance your chicken taco soup, consider these tips:

1. Add Citrus: Squeeze some lime juice just before serving for a refreshing zing.

2. Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, toss in some diced jalapeños when cooking the onions and pepper.

3. Use Homemade Broth: For a richer taste, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

4. Adjust Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less broth, depending on your preference.

5. Store Leftovers Correctly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. The flavors deepen after resting, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Perfecting Your Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Perfecting Results

To achieve perfect results with your easy chicken taco soup, timing is crucial. Cooking the chicken until it’s just fully cooked prevents it from getting dry. Simmering the soup for the right amount of time ensures that all ingredients blend beautifully without losing texture.

Experiment with the seasoning. Taste as you cook, adding more taco seasoning or spices as you see fit. This way, you can tailor the flavors to suit your palate, ensuring each bowl is just the way you like it.

Troubleshooting/Variations

Not every cooking adventure goes as planned, but don’t worry! Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

1. Soup Too Thick: If the soup becomes too thick, gradually stir in more chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency.

2. Soup Too Watery: If your soup is too watery, simmer it uncovered for a while longer to reduce the liquid.

3. Flavor Lacking: If the flavor seems dull, enhance it with additional salt, pepper, or more taco seasoning.

4. Vegetarian Variation: Swap the chicken with plant-based protein or just use a variety of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Serving Up Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Serving/Presentation

Presenting your easy chicken taco soup creatively can enhance the overall dining experience. Use vibrant bowls to showcase the beautiful colors of the soup. Ladle the soup into bowls generously and allow guests to choose their favorite toppings.

Consider offering a spread of toppings like shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, green onions, and crunchy tortilla strips. This interactive element adds excitement to the meal, encouraging everyone to customize their soup just the way they like.

Pairings/Storage

Store leftover chicken taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for about 3–4 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.

Pair this comforting soup with warm tortilla chips or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

Cooking this easy chicken taco soup becomes a delightful experience that showcases the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in a wonderful harmony. This recipe makes dinnertime enjoyable, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering with loved ones.

Print