You can easily prepare this flavorful creamy chicken taco soup. It’s packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a delectable creamy broth.
Chicken taco soup
This soup recipe is a dream come true. It features tender, shredded chicken, sweet corn, black beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes.
The exceptional flavor of the broth is achieved by poaching the chicken breasts in the stock, incorporating flavorful fire-roasted tomatoes, and adding creamy cream cheese. The result is a soup that will linger in your dreams for days!
Chicken Taco Soup Ingredients
The ingredients for this creamy chicken taco soup include:
- Onion, garlic, and bell peppers sautéed in olive oil.
- Taco seasoning, salt, and pepper – you can use homemade taco seasoning or store-bought.
- Chicken broth – homemade chicken bone broth is preferred for the best flavor, but store-bought stock can also be used with additional seasoning.
- Fire-roasted tomatoes – these add a slightly smoky flavor, but regular diced tomatoes can be substituted if needed.
- Chicken breasts – boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can be used.
- Cream cheese – for creaminess and flavor.
- Black beans and corn – for that classic Tex-Mex taste.
- Toppings: cilantro, avocado, cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, and/or lime juice.
This combination of ingredients creates a rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any Tex-Mex craving.
How to Make Chicken Taco Soup
To make this creamy chicken taco soup, follow these steps:
- Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil. Season with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, and chicken breasts. Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and add the cream cheese, allowing it to soften.
- Shred or dice the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Add corn and beans.
- Serve the soup with your choice of toppings, such as cilantro, avocado, cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, or lime juice.
The entire process takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy dinner option.
A variety of options
You have plenty of options to customize this chicken taco soup recipe to your liking:
- Bean Variations: Feel free to use white beans or kidney beans instead of black beans for a different flavor and texture.
- Ground Chicken: Use ground chicken and cook it alongside the onions and garlic for a slightly different texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you love spice, add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to amp up the heat.
- Non-Creamy Version: Skip the cream cheese for a non-creamy version, which will have a lighter broth.
- Extra Creamy: To make it even creamier, stir in a cup of grated cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Leftover Chicken: Utilize leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time and added flavor.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to create your perfect chicken taco soup!
Favorite garnishes for chicken taco soup
Absolutely, adding toppings to soup can take it to the next level in terms of flavor and texture. Here are some fantastic toppings to consider for your chicken taco soup:
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can help balance the heat and add creaminess.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty, citrusy kick that brightens up the soup.
- Grated Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese on top for extra richness and cheesiness.
- Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Crushed or whole tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add a delightful creaminess and a touch of freshness.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For those who crave more heat, sliced jalapeños are the way to go.
Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your own custom bowl of chicken taco soup!
Can I freeze chicken taco soup?
Yes, this chicken taco soup is freezer-friendly. Here’s how to freeze it:
- Allow the soup to cool completely. It’s important to let it reach room temperature before freezing.
- Portion the soup. You can freeze it in individual servings or in larger portions, depending on your preference.
- Use airtight containers or freezer bags. Ensure there’s minimal air in the container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label and date the containers or bags. This helps you keep track of when it was frozen.
- Store in the freezer. The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Remember to give it a good stir as it reheats to ensure the cream cheese incorporates smoothly. Enjoy!
