Chicken Taco Soup

This Chicken Taco Soup is a delightful mix of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with tender chicken, black beans, and corn in a creamy Rotel tomato broth. Best of all, it only takes 35 minutes to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be on your table in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute meal.
• Flavorful Base: The combination of Rotel tomatoes and cream cheese creates a rich and creamy broth that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the toppings or mix in your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its bold flavors and comforting texture, this soup is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together in one pot.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious chicken taco soup, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier, allowing you to focus on the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts, making food prep faster and safer.

Ingredients

This chicken taco soup recipe has a flavorful Rotel tomato cream cheese broth, black beans, corn, and plenty of tender chicken. It’s fast and easy to make in just 35 minutes!

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 (10 ounce) cans Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies (with juices)
• 1 (14 ounce) can black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 1 (12 ounce) can corn (drained)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Optional Toppings

• Shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Avocado slices
• Fresh cilantro
• Tortilla strips

How to Make Chicken Taco Soup

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chicken Taco Soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Add the olive oil and chopped onion to a large soup pot. Sauté over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for the cream cheese, shredded chicken, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat so it simmers gently uncovered for about 5 minutes. Use this time to prepare your desired toppings.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Cut the softened cream cheese into smaller pieces and add it directly into the pot. Stir until fully melted and combined into the broth.

Step 5: Add Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve hot with your choice of toppings!

How to Serve Chicken Taco Soup

Chicken taco soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your taste. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate this comforting soup.

Toppings

• Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend: A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado brings a creamy texture and balances the spice.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the soup.
• Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips provide a delightful contrast in texture.

Bread Pairings

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy chips are perfect for scooping up the soup and toppings.

Side Salads

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This tangy, creamy salad pairs wonderfully with chicken taco soup for an extra kick.

How to Perfect Chicken Taco Soup

To make your chicken taco soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick and tasty addition.
• Adjust Spice Level: Tailor the chili powder amount to suit your heat preference; add more for an extra kick.
• Mix in Vegetables: Add more veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
• Let it Simmer Longer: If you have time, let the soup simmer longer to deepen the flavors even further.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with garnishes like lime wedges or pickled jalapeños for added flair.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taco Soup

Pairing side dishes with chicken taco soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the soup nicely.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is perfect for dipping tortilla chips or adding directly to the soup.
3. Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad adds another layer of flavor and texture alongside the soup.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese and spices makes a delicious side.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas are easy to make and great for dipping into the soup.
6. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: These flavorful potatoes add heartiness and pair well with the spicy broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken taco soup is easy, but a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s final flavor and texture.

• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Always choose a good-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions and spices enhances their flavors. Skipping this step can result in a bland soup.
• Not adding enough seasoning: Chicken taco soup needs proper seasoning. Be bold with salt, pepper, and spices to really bring out the flavors.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you use pre-cooked chicken, be careful not to overcook it in the soup. Just warm it through for tender bites.
• Forgetting toppings: Toppings can elevate your soup! Don’t forget to add avocado, cheese, or tortilla strips for extra flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Chicken Taco Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning out servings for quick meals later.

Reheating Chicken Taco Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in 1-minute increments, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Chicken Taco Soup recipe so special?

This Chicken Taco Soup features a creamy Rotel tomato base that adds a unique twist. It’s packed with flavors and easy to customize!

Can I use other proteins in this Chicken Taco Soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey or beef for chicken if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How spicy is this Chicken Taco Soup?

The spice level depends on your choice of chili powder and peppers. You can always reduce or increase spice levels based on your preference!

Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Taco Soup?

Yes! Replace chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I make this Chicken Taco Soup ahead of time?

Definitely! This soup actually tastes better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Taco Soup is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of savory goodness!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Taco Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Chicken Taco Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, black beans, and sweet corn in a rich, creamy Rotel tomato broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this easy recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep. Packed with bold flavors and a variety of textures, you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips. This one-pot wonder requires minimal cleanup, ensuring you can enjoy more time with loved ones while savoring every warm bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 (10 ounce) cans Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies (with juices)
• 1 (14 ounce) can black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 1 (12 ounce) can corn (drained)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, sauté chopped onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Add chicken broth, Rotel tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, red bell pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.
4. Cut softened cream cheese into pieces and stir into the pot until melted.
5. Incorporate shredded chicken; cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving with desired toppings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg