This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is perfect for a quick, healthy dinner any night of the week. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you whip it up in an instant pot, crock pot, or on the stove, you’ll find that this easy chicken taco soup is a go-to recipe for busy families and meal preppers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a robust flavor that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Make this soup using your favorite method—instant pot, crock pot, or stovetop—making it adaptable to your kitchen setup.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fiber while being low in fat and sodium, this dish is a nutritious option for any meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the taste of taco soup! It’s an easy way to introduce them to new flavors without overwhelming them.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing this Easy Chicken Taco Soup is straightforward with the right tools. Having the essential kitchen equipment ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Instant Pot or Crock Pot
- Large pot (for stovetop method)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener
Importance of Each Tool
- Instant Pot or Crock Pot: These appliances allow for hands-free cooking and enhance flavors through slow cooking.
- Large Pot: Ideal for making larger batches on the stove; it provides ample space for all the ingredients to blend well.
- Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for efficiently preparing your vegetables and chicken.
Ingredients
For this Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup minced onion
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Flavor Enhancers
- 14 oz can tomato sauce (low or no salt)
- 1 quart chicken broth (low or no salt)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
Add-ins
- 15 oz can black beans (drained & rinsed – low or no salt)
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
How to Make Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by mincing the onion and garlic. Set aside.
- Drain and rinse the black beans if using canned beans.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In your instant pot or large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Liquids
- Place the boneless chicken breasts into the pot.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Season Your Soup
- Sprinkle in paprika, black pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Mix well to distribute spices evenly.
Step 5: Cook
- For Instant Pot: Secure lid and set to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow natural release for 10 minutes before opening.
- For Crock Pot: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- For Stovetop: Bring to a boil then reduce heat; simmer for about 35 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Shred Chicken
- Remove cooked chicken from the pot. Shred it using two forks and return it to the soup.
Step 7: Add Beans and Corn
- Stir in black beans and thawed corn. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Step 8: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Enjoy hot with your favorite toppings like avocado or cheese!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Serving Easy Chicken Taco Soup can be as fun as making it! This hearty soup is versatile and pairs well with various toppings and sides that enhance its flavors.
Toppings for an Extra Kick
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spices in the soup.
- Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of cheese melts beautifully, adding a savory touch.
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the warm soup.
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with its vibrant flavor.
Accompaniments for a Complete Meal
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping and adding texture to each bite.
- Cornbread – This sweet bread complements the savory flavors of the taco soup wonderfully.
- Lime Wedges – Squeezing fresh lime juice over your soup enhances its brightness.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken Taco Soup
To make your Easy Chicken Taco Soup even better, consider these expert tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate flavors, making your soup taste homemade.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify spices based on your family’s preferences or spice tolerance.
- Add More Veggies – Incorporate diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and texture.
- Let It Simmer Longer – Allow the soup to simmer for an extra 10 minutes to meld all flavors beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Chicken Taco Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup nicely.
- Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the soup.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
- Stuffed Jalapeños – Spicy stuffed peppers add excitement and heat to your meal.
- Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas are perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Fried Plantains – Sweet plantains offer a unique texture and flavor balance to the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Chicken Taco Soup can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not seasoning enough – Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust spices as needed.
- Using low-quality chicken – Poor quality chicken can affect flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Overcooking the chicken – This can make the chicken dry. Cook just until it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
- Ignoring cooking times – Each method (instant pot, crock pot, stovetop) has different times. Stick to recommended timings for best results.
- Skipping the broth – Using water instead of broth can lessen the soup’s depth. Always use low-sodium chicken broth for better flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing.
Freezing Easy Chicken Taco Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Easy Chicken Taco Soup
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and bake in a covered dish until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Chicken Taco Soup.
Can I make Easy Chicken Taco Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
What toppings go well with Easy Chicken Taco Soup?
Consider adding shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey or even cooked beans for a vegetarian version of this Easy Chicken Taco Soup.
How do I make this soup spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños during cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients used are gluten-free, making this soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients based on your preferences. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep throughout the week. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!
Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Easy Chicken Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup is not only quick to prepare but also healthy, making it a go-to recipe for families. The combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and hearty vegetables creates a satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite toppings like avocado or cheese for an extra kick. Whether you use an Instant Pot, a slow cooker, or the stovetop method, this easy chicken taco soup will warm your soul and delight your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: Varies by method (15 min Instant Pot / up to 6 hours Crock Pot)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Instant Pot/Crock Pot/Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup minced onion
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 14 oz can tomato sauce (low or no salt)
- 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 15 oz can black beans (drained & rinsed)
- 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
Instructions
- Mince the onion and garlic; set aside.
- Heat olive oil in your chosen pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add garlic for another minute.
- Add chicken breasts to the pot along with tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Season with paprika, black pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Mix thoroughly.
- Cook: Instant Pot: Secure lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes; natural release for 10 minutes. Crock Pot: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stovetop: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 35 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the pot; shred using two forks and return to the soup.
- Stir in black beans and corn; heat through for another 5 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
