Jump to Recipe Print RecipeOn a particularly hectic weeknight, the dinner hour often feels like a mini crisis. You know, the kind where you’re juggling work, family, and a lingering taco craving? Enter my Easy Chicken Taco Soup—your new best friend for those chaotic evenings! This delightful, protein-rich dish is not only quick to prep, taking just 35 minutes, but it also brings vibrant Tex-Mex flavors to your table with minimal fuss. With pantry staples like black beans, corn, and rich cream cheese forming a delectable broth, you’ll enjoy a heartwarming, creamy soup that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl. Curious to try it out for dinner tonight? Keep reading and let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is Chicken Taco Soup a Must-Try? Quick Preparation: You’ll love how this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Hearty and Flavorful: Packed with protein-rich chicken, black beans, and sweet corn, this soup is both satisfying and full of vibrant Tex-Mex flavors. Versatile Ingredients: Using pantry staples means you can whip it up anytime! Try swapping out the chicken for shredded pork or ground turkey for a delicious twist. Creamy Comfort: The addition of cream cheese creates a luxuriously creamy broth that will warm your heart. It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly evening! For other quick and satisfying recipes, check out my Crockpot Chicken Tacos or the delightful Pesto Chicken Broccoli that’s just as effortless. Chicken Taco Soup Ingredients • Dive into this quick and delicious Chicken Taco Soup with just a few pantry staples! For the Soup Base Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in sautéing onions; can substitute with vegetable oil. Onion (1/2 medium, chopped) – Provides aromatic base flavors; can be replaced with shallots. Chicken Broth (3 cups) – Liquid base for the soup; low-sodium broth is recommended for reduced salt. Ro-tel Diced Tomatoes (2 x 10-ounce cans) – Infuses the soup with spicy tomato flavor; regular diced tomatoes with added green chilies can substitute. Black Beans (1 x 14-ounce can, drained and rinsed) – Adds protein and fiber; can replace with pinto beans if desired. Corn (1 x 12-ounce can, drained) – Adds sweetness and texture; frozen corn can substitute. Red Bell Pepper (1/2, chopped) – Contributes sweetness and color; can be substituted with green bell pepper. Chili Powder (1 tablespoon) – Adds warm spice; cayenne pepper can be used for more heat. Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; fresh garlic can be minced as an alternative. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon) – Provides earthy warmth; omit or reduce for less flavor. Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Lends a smoky taste; regular paprika can be used instead. Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened) – Makes the soup creamy; can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Cooked/Rotisserie Chicken (2 cups, shredded) – Main protein source; leftovers or rotisserie chicken are convenient options. Salt & Pepper – Seasoning to taste; use low-sodium options if concerned with salt intake. For Toppings Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend – Adds an extra layer of creaminess and flavor; feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese! Avocado – Provides creamy texture and richness; fresh chunks or slices work wonderfully. Cilantro – Brightens up the flavor; sprinkle on top just before serving for a fresh touch. Tortilla Strips – Crunchy addition that complements the creamy soup beautifully! Embrace the convenience and warmth of this Chicken Taco Soup, warming your kitchen and satisfying your cravings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Chicken Taco Soup Step 1: Sauté the Onion In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ½ medium chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your Easy Chicken Taco Soup, inviting a comforting aroma into your kitchen. Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, and add 2 cans of Ro-tel diced tomatoes with their juices, 1 drained and rinsed can of black beans, 1 drained can of corn, and the chopped red bell pepper. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Stir well to combine everything evenly and bring the mixture to a boil. Step 3: Simmer the Soup Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and leave the pot uncovered. Allow the soup to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and develop. You will notice a lovely bubbling action, signifying that your Easy Chicken Taco Soup is cooking perfectly. Step 4: Prepare Your Toppings While the soup is simmering, gather your desired toppings—shredded Mexican cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and tortilla strips. Having these ready will enhance the dining experience when serving your creamy soup, making it more inviting and satisfying. Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese Cut 8 ounces of softened cream cheese into cubes and carefully add it to the simmering soup. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the cream cheese melts and is fully incorporated, creating a rich and creamy texture throughout your Easy Chicken Taco Soup. Step 6: Add Shredded Chicken Gently fold in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, stirring to combine. Heat everything together for another 5-7 minutes over low heat, until the chicken is warmed through, ensuring each comforting bowl has plenty of protein and flavor. Step 7: Season and Serve Taste your Easy Chicken Taco Soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Once it’s just right, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle your chosen toppings on top. The glorious presentation will make your meal even more inviting, keeping everybody excited for dinner! Make Ahead Options These Easy Chicken Taco Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prep all the ingredients—like chopping the veggies, draining the beans, and shredding the chicken—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness, keep the veggies in an airtight container, while the beans and chicken can be placed together. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious soup, simply follow the cooking instructions starting from sautéing the onion and adding the prepped ingredients to the pot. This way, you ensure your Chicken Taco Soup remains just as delicious and comforting, bringing a warm bowl of happiness to your table with minimal effort! Chicken Taco Soup Variations Feel free to get creative and customize your Chicken Taco Soup to match your taste preferences or dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Swap out cream cheese for cashew cream or coconut cream for a lush, dairy-free version. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level and excite your taste buds. Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with additional black beans, or include diced carrots and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option. Mexican Street Corn: Stir in some cotija cheese and lime juice just before serving to mimic the flavors of elote in your soup! Smoky Flavor Boost: Toss in a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for an added smoky depth, giving your soup a nuanced heat. Extra Comfort: Serve your soup topped with crispy tortilla strips, adding both crunch and a festive touch. One-Pot Wonder: For an easy alternative, use this recipe in your Instant Pot; just sauté, add ingredients, and cook on high pressure for a quick meal. Serving Style: Pair with warm crusty bread or tortilla chips to soak up that delicious broth! For an easy taco night twist, check out my Crockpot Chicken Tacos to change it up. Explore these variations to find your family’s favorite! Whatever you choose, remember that with every bowl, you’re crafting a comforting meal that feels like home. Expert Tips for Chicken Taco Soup Soften Cream Cheese: Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature before adding it to the soup. This ensures smooth melting and avoids lumps. Flavor Boost: If you’re not using Ro-tel, consider adding diced green chilies to intensify the Tex-Mex flavors. Adjusting Spice Level: For more heat, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños during cooking. Taste as you go to prevent overwhelming spice. Perfect Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency. Storage Tips: For leftovers, cool the soup completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Freezing for Later: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for an easy meal. Storage Tips for Chicken Taco Soup Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Taco Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Freezer: Freeze portions of the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it becomes too thick. Reheating: Stir while reheating to ensure even warmth, and taste for seasoning adjustments as flavors can intensify during storage. What to Serve with Easy Chicken Taco Soup On a cozy evening, complement the warmth of your creamy soup with delightful sides that enhance your meal experience. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, they add a delightful contrast to the creamy soup. Perfect for dipping! Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro brings a fresh twist and pairs beautifully with the Tex-Mex flavors. Guacamole: Creamy and packed with nutrients, it not only elevates the soup but also adds a rich texture that is irresistible. Fresh Salad: A bright, zesty salad with lime vinaigrette provides a crisp counterbalance to the hearty soup, invigorating your palate. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and slightly crumbly, these muffins are perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious Chicken Taco Soup. Sangria or Margarita: A refreshing drink that complements the spicy flavors of the soup nicely, making for a festive touch to your meal. Enjoy crafting a full meal experience that brings everyone together around the table! Easy Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Chicken Taco Soup? Absolutely! For the freshest flavors, choose tomatoes that are firm and free of dark spots. When selecting bell peppers, look for ones that are vibrant in color and feel heavy for their size. As for onions, opt for those that are smooth and firm without any soft spots. How should I store leftover Chicken Taco Soup? Very importantly, store your leftover Chicken Taco Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days! Just cool it completely before sealing. Reheating is a breeze—go for medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Can I freeze Chicken Taco Soup for later? Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before portioning into airtight containers. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed for consistency. What if my Chicken Taco Soup seems too thick after storage? Don’t worry! If your soup is thicker than desired after being stored, simply add a bit more chicken broth while reheating until it reaches your preferred consistency. Stir continuously to combine, and taste to ensure the flavor is just right before serving again. Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Taco Soup? Very! If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and season to taste. For allergy concerns, always check the labels on your canned goods—particularly the beans and tomatoes—for allergens. If you’re cooking for pets, it’s essential to avoid onions and garlic, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. Stick to safe, wholesome ingredients for your furry friends. How can I enhance the flavors of my Chicken Taco Soup? I often suggest experimenting with spices! If you want a little more kick, add additional chili powder or some diced jalapeños during cooking. For an extra layer of flavor, consider a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving. It can brighten the soup and elevate the whole experience! Creamy Chicken Taco Soup That's Ready in 35 Minutes This Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is a quick, protein-rich dish that brings vibrant Tex-Mex flavors to your table in just 35 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 6 cupsCourse: SoupCuisine: Tex-MexCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.0.5 medium Onion, chopped Can be replaced with shallots.3 cups Chicken Broth Low-sodium recommended.2 10-ounce cans Ro-tel Diced Tomatoes Regular diced tomatoes with green chilies can substitute.1 14-ounce can Black Beans, drained and rinsed Can replace with pinto beans.1 12-ounce can Corn, drained Frozen corn can substitute.0.5 Red Bell Pepper, chopped Can be substituted with green bell pepper.1 tablespoon Chili Powder Cayenne pepper can be used for more heat.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be minced as an alternative.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Omit for less flavor.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can substitute.8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened Can substitute with Greek yogurt.2 cups Cooked/Rotisserie Chicken, shredded Convenient options include leftovers.to taste Salt & Pepper Use low-sodium if concerned.For Toppingsto taste Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend Mix with your favorite cheese!to taste Avocado Fresh chunks or slices work wonderfully.to taste Cilantro Sprinkle on top before serving.to taste Tortilla Strips Crunchy addition that complements the soup. Equipment large pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Chicken Taco SoupIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ½ medium chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, 2 cans of Ro-tel diced tomatoes, 1 can of black beans, 1 can of corn, and chopped red bell pepper. Add chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir and bring to a boil.Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 5 minutes.Prepare desired toppings: shredded Mexican cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and tortilla strips.Cut 8 ounces of softened cream cheese into cubes and add to the soup, stirring until melted, about 2-3 minutes.Gently fold in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, stirring and heating for another 5-7 minutes.Season with salt and pepper to taste, ladle into bowls, and top with chosen toppings. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow cream cheese to soften before adding for smooth melting. Adjust spice level with cayenne or jalapeños as preferred. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
