Taco Chicken Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taco Chicken Soup is packed with bold flavors and ingredients that everyone loves. With tender chicken, a mix of spices, and a creamy texture, it’s a savory, satisfying dish. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s customizable—whether you want to add more heat, throw in some extra veggies, or make it spicier with more taco seasoning, you can adjust it to your taste. It’s also easy to make in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a fantastic choice for meal prep and can be stored for several days, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready when you need it.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained

• 4 cups chicken broth

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside to cool.

2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.

3. Add the taco seasoning and stir for 1 minute to release the flavors.

4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

5. Shred the cooked chicken breasts using two forks and add them back into the soup. Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheese. Allow the cheese to melt and the soup to become creamy.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Taco Chicken Soup: Add jalapeños or a bit of chili powder for an extra kick of heat.

2. Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with extra beans or tofu for a meat-free version of this soup.

3. Creamier Soup: Stir in more sour cream or use cream cheese for a richer texture.

4. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrients.

5. Cheese Variations: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicier version or mix in a combination of cheeses.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup is too thick after storing, add a little chicken broth to thin it out before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this soup?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly. You may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients except for the sour cream and cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Once done, shred the chicken and stir in the sour cream and cheese before serving.

3. Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream for a healthier option, or use cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.

4. How do I make this soup spicier?

Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to increase the spice level to your liking. You can also use spicy taco seasoning.

5. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey works well in this recipe. Brown the ground meat first before adding the other ingredients to the pot.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Taco Chicken Soup is naturally gluten-free, as long as your taco seasoning is gluten-free. Always check the labels of pre-made seasonings.

7. Can I add cheese before cooking?

It’s best to add the cheese at the end, after the soup has cooked, so it melts perfectly into the soup and doesn’t separate or become stringy.

8. How do I thicken the soup?

If you’d like a thicker soup, you can add more sour cream or a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the simmering soup to thicken it.

9. Can I use a different type of beans?

Yes, you can substitute black beans with pinto beans, kidney beans, or any other beans you prefer.

10. Can this soup be made ahead?

Yes, this soup stores well and can be made ahead. The flavors actually deepen the longer it sits, so it’s a great make-ahead dish.

Conclusion

Taco Chicken Soup is a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you're looking for comfort food, a quick weeknight dinner, or something to meal prep, this soup checks all the boxes. It's full of flavor, easy to make, and can be customized to suit your taste. Don’t forget to store any leftovers for an easy meal the next day!