This Chicken Taco Soup recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal. With a creamy broth made from Rotel tomatoes and cream cheese, combined with black beans, corn, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or bringing it to a gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and cream cheese creates a deliciously creamy and savory soup.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like avocado, cheese, or tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this soup is satisfying and wholesome.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot means more time to enjoy your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Chicken Taco Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Soup Pot: Allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space for stirring.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
- Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.
- Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
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)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Additional Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken (shredded)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Optional Toppings
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Avocado
- Cilantro
- Tortilla strips
How to Make Chicken Taco Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by adding the olive oil and chopped onion to a large soup pot. Sauté over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add all remaining ingredients—except the cream cheese, shredded chicken, salt, and pepper—into the pot. Stir well to combine everything.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat to high until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat so that the soup simmers gently. Let it simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Cut the softened cream cheese into smaller pieces. Add these pieces directly into the simmering soup. Stir continuously until fully melted and incorporated into the broth.
Step 5: Add Chicken
Now stir in the shredded chicken and let it cook for an additional 5–7 minutes or until heated through.
Step 6: Season & Serve
Season your Chicken Taco Soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese or avocado for extra flavor!
Enjoy this hearty Chicken Taco Soup as a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Chicken Taco Soup
Serving Chicken Taco Soup is an opportunity to get creative with toppings and sides that enhance its flavors. Here are some delicious suggestions for serving this comforting dish.
Toppings
- Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend – A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and richness to each bowl.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado provides a fresh, buttery contrast to the savory soup.
- Fresh Cilantro – Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Tortilla Strips – Crunchy tortilla strips bring texture and a traditional taco flair to your soup.
Side Options
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins complement the spice of the soup perfectly.
- Simple Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Rice or Quinoa – Serve a side of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal that pairs well with the soup.
How to Perfect Chicken Taco Soup
Perfecting your Chicken Taco Soup involves a few key steps to enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some tips for making it even better.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly elevate the flavor of your soup.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños based on your preference.
- Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors, making it more delicious.
- Use Homemade Broth – If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste than store-bought options.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Taco Soup
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Taco Soup can make your meal more satisfying and enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Cornbread – This sweet bread is perfect for soaking up flavorful broth while adding a comforting touch.
- Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole served with crunchy chips makes for a delightful appetizer before the soup.
- Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add zest when served alongside or on top of the soup.
- Spanish Rice – Flavored with spices, this rice dish complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice and beans can serve as a hearty side dish that pairs well with chicken taco soup.
- Grilled Veggies – Seasonal grilled vegetables offer a smoky taste that enhances the overall meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Taco Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the onions can lead to a less flavorful base. Always take time to cook them until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or chicken can lower the soup’s temperature. Make sure these ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Always season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Add it towards the end of cooking just until warmed through.
- Not Allowing Time for Flavors to Meld: Rushing the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing fully. Always allow the soup to simmer for at least 5 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Taco Soup
- Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Taco Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Chicken Taco Soup that may help you perfect your dish.
What is Chicken Taco Soup?
Chicken Taco Soup is a hearty and creamy soup made with shredded chicken, tomatoes, beans, corn, and spices, offering delicious taco flavors.
Can I make Chicken Taco Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.
What toppings go well with Chicken Taco Soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and crunchy tortilla strips for added texture.
How can I customize my Chicken Taco Soup?
You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers or spice it up with jalapeños for heat!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Taco Soup is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that will satisfy your taste buds. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Chicken Taco Soup
Chicken Taco Soup is a delightful and hearty meal that combines the comforting flavors of taco ingredients into a creamy, nourishing soup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is ready in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families on the go. With tender shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a rich broth made from Rotel tomatoes and cream cheese, every spoonful offers a burst of flavor that everyone will love. Top it off with your favorite garnishes like avocado or cheese for an extra layer of taste. Whether enjoyed solo or shared at gatherings, this Chicken Taco Soup is sure to become a family favorite!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
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, Cilantro, Tortilla strips
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add chicken broth, Rotel tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Cut softened cream cheese into pieces and add to the soup. Stir continuously until fully melted.
- Incorporate shredded chicken and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added spice, include fresh jalapeños or increase chili powder according to your preference. Experiment with toppings such as fresh cilantro or tortilla strips for added crunch and flavor. You can use homemade broth for an even richer taste.