Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Chicken Taco Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines all the beloved elements of classic tacos into a hearty soup. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this easy recipe is packed with protein, vegetables, and spices that make it a satisfying meal for the whole family. Whether you prefer to whip it up in an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop, you’ll find that this recipe is versatile and delicious.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also provides a wholesome meal option that can be tailored to your family’s taste. The flavors of chicken, beans, and spices simmer together to create a flavorful and fulfilling dish. Plus, it allows for flexibility with ingredients, making it perfect for using up whatever you have on hand. With optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips, this soup can elevate dinner while still being simple and approachable.
How to Make Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Making this Chicken Taco Soup is an effortless process that can be completed in mere minutes depending on your cooking method. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Tortilla chips (optional)
Directions:
- In an Instant Pot, set to ‘sauté’ and add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
- Add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
- Close the lid, seal the vent, and cook on ‘high pressure’ for 15 minutes.
- If using a crockpot, combine all ingredients in the pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- For stovetop preparation, combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Shred the chicken in the pot, stir well, and serve hot. Garnish with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips if desired.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Serve your delicious Chicken Taco Soup hot for an inviting meal. You can offer various toppings such as shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, diced avocado, or crispy tortilla chips on the side. This makes it interactive for family members to customize their bowls to their liking, adding to the fun of mealtime.
How to Store Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Leftover Chicken Taco Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to store the soup for longer, consider freezing it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Easy Chicken Taco Soup
- For extra thickness, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the soup just before serving.
- If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation time; just shred it and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variation
To customize your Chicken Taco Soup, you can substitute the chicken breasts with shredded beef or turkey for a different protein. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or carrots. You might also try different variations of taco seasoning based on your taste preferences.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and can actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just allow it to cool before refrigerating.
What can I serve with Chicken Taco Soup?
Pair the soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or make it a complete meal by serving it with a delicious cornbread.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes! If using an Instant Pot, you can cook frozen chicken breasts directly; just add a few additional minutes to the cooking time. However, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Chicken Taco Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) For garnish
- Sour cream (optional) For serving
- Tortilla chips (optional) For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In an Instant Pot, set to ‘sauté’ and add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
- Add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
- Close the lid, seal the vent, and cook on ‘high pressure’ for 15 minutes.
- If using a crockpot, combine all ingredients in the pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- For stovetop preparation, combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Shred the chicken in the pot, stir well, and serve hot.
- Garnish with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips if desired.
