A Deliciously Tasty Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
Fall is upon us, and with that comes chilly nights, and back to school chaos. The kids will begin after school and weekend activities. There will be late nights, sporting events, various performances and practices. The last thing you may want to do is cook.
But you will definitely want to grab your pot, and fill it with some delicious chicken taco soup. This is the perfect autumn soup for busy families. It’s quick and easy, you can leave it covered on the stove while you run to pick up the kids, and it will warm everyone that’s been out in the cold.
This traditional Mexican soup is just spicy enough to take that September chill off the bones, without being too overwhelming for younger palates. It’s also great when the snow starts falling. Nothing is better after building snowmen or shoveling, than coming inside to a nice, hot bowl of soup.
There are many variations of this soup, from the use of Chile peppers to potatoes. We’ve stuck to traditional ingredients with our recipe, but you can add whatever you like. Either way you won’t be disappointed with this deliciously tasty chicken taco soup recipe.
A Deliciously Tasty Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
- Prep: 5 minutes
- Cook: 30 minutes
- Servings: 5-6
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 whole boneless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 1 can of red pinto beans, untrained
- 1 can of black beans, drained
- 1 can if kernel corn
- 1 – 8 ounce can of tomato sauce
- 2 – 14 ounce cans of diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 pack of taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1-1/2 tablespoons of garlic powder
- fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- tortilla chips (crushed)
- avocado (sliced for garnish)
- grated cheddar cheese
Directions
1. In a large stockpot warm the olive oil. Stir in the onion and sauté on a medium heat for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant.
2. Add in both cans of beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, corn, chicken broth, and the chicken breast. Stir well.
3. Mix in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, taco mix, and pepper (to taste).
4. Lower the heat and simmer for about 25 minutes stirring occasionally. About halfway through, taste test the soup and add salt and more spices if needed.
5. Remove from heat, ladle into bowls, and serve.
6. Place cheddar cheese, avocado, crushed tortillas, and cilantro in separate bowls, so everyone can choose their own toppings.
Nutritional information
- calories: 233
- carbohydrates: 15 grams
- protein: 13 grams
- fat: 2 grams
- cholesterol: 26 milligrams
- sodium: 683 milligrams
- fiber: 4 grams
- sugar: 3 grams
How Long Will Chicken Taco Soup Last?
If you need to refrigerate leftovers soup, it will last about 4–5 days. Be sure to let the soup cool before placing it in the fridge. We recommend using glass containers if you can, as the tomato will stain plastic. You can also use airtight baggies.
If you plan on freezing your chicken taco soup, it will retain its freshness and taste for about 3 months. Whether you choose the fridge or freezer, do not freeze the garnishes in with the soup (especially the tortillas and avocado). They will break down and make the soup gritty and mushy.
Is Chicken Taco Soup Good For You?
Not only is chicken taco soup tasty and convenient, but it has a lot of health benefits as well. The protein helps with muscle growth, while the fiber aids in digestion. It’s a low calorie and low fat soup, so it won’t pack on those cold weather pounds.
In Mexico, it’s been used as a hangover cure for years. The spices (especially cumin) and heat from the soup also make it a great choice when fighting a cold or clogged sinuses.
What Can You Serve With Chicken Taco Soup?
Chicken taco soup is pretty versatile, so you can serve many different sides or dishes with it. You can stay with a traditional Mexican theme, do some homestyle sides, or a combination of both. Some pairing we think you’ll enjoy include:
1. Fresh Guacamole/Salsa With Chips
Chips and dip are always a welcome side to any soup. It’s easy and filling, yet you can control the amount of calories you take in by limiting the number of chips.
2. Spicy Mexican Rice
Spice up plain old white rice with some cilantro, garlic, onions, and peppers. This rice is a perfect compliment to your chicken taco soup.
3. Cornbread
Cornbread is always a favorite with both kids and adults. The sweetness will offset some of the spiciness.
4. Southwestern Salad
Soup and salad go together like peas and carrots. This salad is filled with traditional Mexican goodness like beans, corn, cilantro, and tortillas. When paired with the soup, it makes for a hearty lunch or a nice, light dinner.
5. Grilled Zucchini
Keep your meal light with some charbroiled zucchini slices. Just add a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and you’re good to go.
6. Grilled Cheese
You will never go wrong with this tasty classic. Grilled cheese goes perfectly with chicken taco soup because it won’t overpower the flavor, and it will take some of the sting out if you’re sensitive to spices.
7. Avocado Salad
This delicious salad is filled with healthy fats from the avocado. Add in some tomatoes, scallions, and the lettuce of your choice for a delicious and healthy side.
8. Chipotle Roasted Cauliflower
If you’re a cauliflower fan, this is a great way to prepare it. Just chop it up, pour some olive oil on it, and pop it in the oven. When it’s done, pour some yummy chipotle sauce over it.
9. Key Lime Pie
No meal would be complete without a delectable dessert to look forward to at the end. Key lime pie is a creamy, tangy delight, that will satisfy your sweet tooth while cooling down your taste buds after the hot and spicy soup.
10. Fizzy Lime Margarita
For the adults at the table, a refreshing margarita pairs perfectly with this soup. This recipe adds some fizz for that extra zing.
What Are Some Other Amazing Mexican Soups?
If you’re in the market for some other delightful Mexican soups, we suggest:
- chicken enchilada soup
- Mexican vegetable soup
- black bean soup
- Mexican meatball soup
- fajita soup
- Mexican pozole soup
- Mexican beef and rice soup
- chicken avocado soup
