If you are craving something comforting, flavorful, and simple to whip up, this Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with vibrant colors and layers of savory goodness—from tender shredded chicken to hearty beans, sweet corn, and a zesty tomato base—this soup is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening but is quick enough to make on any weeknight when time is tight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for cozy dinners and casual get-togethers alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup lies in its straightforward ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Each component serves a delicious purpose, whether it’s the smoky warmth of taco seasoning or the creamy texture that the beans add. Together, these ingredients create a rich, perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a light, fragrant base to sauté the onions and garlic.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a burst of aromatic intensity that flavors the whole soup.
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded: The hearty protein star of the dish that makes it filling.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber without overpowering flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Provides a meaty texture and vibrant color contrast.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained: Brings natural sweetness and pops of crunch.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Gives a spicy, tangy base that ties every bite together.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that turns this into a welcoming, warm soup.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: The magic spice blend that ensures authentic taco tastes in every spoonful.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional): For those who like a little extra kick and smoky heat.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall flavors.
- Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, avocado, cilantro—each one adds a different texture and freshness that makes every bite exciting.
How to Make Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it soften for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and tender. Then add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to release its fragrance without risking bitterness. This simple step builds the flavorful foundation of the soup.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once your aromatics are ready, it’s time to introduce the heartier elements. Add the shredded chicken, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together to distribute the ingredients evenly, setting the stage for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 3: Season
Now for the flavor punch: sprinkle in the taco seasoning and the optional chili powder if you want more heat. Mix everything well so that the spices thoroughly coat all the chunks and liquids. This seasoning step is what gives this soup its signature taco-inspired character.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows every ingredient to meld beautifully, marrying the robust spices with the juicy chicken and beans for a deeply satisfying taste.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give the soup a taste test. Add salt and pepper according to your preference to round out the flavors perfectly. Adjust the seasoning as needed—you want each spoonful to feel balanced and just right.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls and invite everyone to dress theirs with shredded cheese, sour cream, crunchy tortilla chips, creamy avocado slices, and fresh cilantro. These garnishes aren’t just decorative; they bring contrasting textures and cooling elements that elevate the whole experience.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The best part of serving this soup is the garnishes. Sprinkle shredded cheese that melts into each spoonful, dollop sour cream for creamy tang, and add crunchy tortilla chips for that irresistible crunch. Fresh avocado slices add buttery softness, while cilantro lends a vibrant herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
While this soup is substantial on its own, pairing it with warm cornbread, a crisp green salad, or even some soft flour tortillas can turn it into a festive meal for family or friends. These sides complement the bold flavors and provide a satisfying balance of textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in small mason jars or Spanish-style bowls for a rustic feel. You can also set up a mini topping bar with all your favorite fixings, allowing every guest to customize their bowl just the way they like it. Presentation like this adds a layer of excitement and makes mealtime feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the soup even tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Transfer it into freezer-friendly zip-top bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave in intervals, stirring in between. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is actually a great shortcut—it’s already flavorful and tender, which makes this Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe even easier and faster to prepare.
Is this soup spicy?
The recipe calls for taco seasoning and an optional teaspoon of chili powder, so it has a nice mild to moderate heat level. You can adjust the chili powder to your taste or omit it for a milder version.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to keep it hearty and filling.
What toppings work best with Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe?
Classic toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, and cilantro. You can also get creative with sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or even a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Sure, but you’ll need to soak and cook the dried beans beforehand. Canned beans save time and work perfectly here, but using your own cooked beans adds a lovely homemade touch.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe is such a joy to make and share, offering warmth and zest with every spoonful. It’s perfect for any occasion when you want something both delicious and effortlessly satisfying. I hope you dive into this recipe soon and discover how it quickly becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.
Print
Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is a flavorful, hearty, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with shredded chicken, beans, corn, and a robust blend of taco seasonings, it simmers to create a delicious southwestern-inspired dish. Topped with cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, avocado, and cilantro, this soup is both satisfying and simple to make in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Tortilla chips
- Avocado, sliced or diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, drained black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning packet and the optional chili powder for extra heat. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is well distributed throughout the soup.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors according to your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, tortilla chips, diced or sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your comforting chicken taco soup!
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- For a spicier version, add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
- Feel free to customize toppings based on your preference or dietary restrictions.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use low sodium chicken broth for a healthier option and better control over saltiness.
