Easy Chicken Taco Soup: A Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Meal

Name: Easy Chicken Taco Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 1 Onion (chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 pound Ground chicken; 1 15 ounce can Diced tomatoes (undrained); 1 15 ounce can Corn (drained); 1 15 ounce can Black beans (rinsed and drained); 1 10 ounce can Diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel) (undrained); 4 cups Chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon Cumin; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese (for serving); Tortilla chips (for serving); Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving (optional)); Chopped cilantro (for serving (optional))

BY :

Noelia

Posted On :

September 14, 2025

Dinner

Looking for a delicious and comforting meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this Easy Chicken Taco Soup! This recipe is a family favorite, packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and easy to prepare. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this recipe delivers big on taste without the hassle. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Easy Chicken Taco Soup is guaranteed to impress. It’s adaptable to your spice preferences and pantry staples, making it a versatile and delicious addition to your recipe repertoire. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this incredibly flavorful and satisfying soup!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

This Easy Chicken Taco Soup isn’t just a quick meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

Speed and Simplicity: This recipe comes together in a flash, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast. The simple instructions ensure even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of ground chicken, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and Rotel creates a symphony of flavors. The spices – chili powder, cumin, and a hint of cayenne – add a delightful warmth and depth that will keep you coming back for more. It’s a taste of Tex-Mex comfort in every bowl.
One-Pot Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze! This recipe is entirely made in one pot, minimizing the amount of dishes you need to wash. More time for enjoying your delicious soup and less time scrubbing pots and pans.
Customizable to Your Taste: Want it spicier? Add more cayenne pepper! Prefer a milder flavor? Skip the cayenne altogether. Love extra veggies? Throw in some chopped bell peppers or onions. This recipe is your culinary canvas; feel free to get creative!
Budget-Friendly: This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is made with affordable and readily available ingredients. You can easily find everything you need at your local grocery store, making it a wallet-friendly meal option for the whole family.
Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers for lunch or another dinner. It reheats beautifully and holds its flavor exceptionally well.

Why You Should Try This Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Easy Chicken Taco Soup offers several compelling reasons to give it a try:

Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with protein from the ground chicken and fiber from the beans and corn, this soup is a nutritious and satisfying meal. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is a guaranteed hit with everyone, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies. Its familiar flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is, or elevate it with your favorite toppings. Shredded cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro all make wonderful additions. The possibilities are endless!
Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. Simply store the leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Improves with Age: The flavors in this soup meld beautifully over time, meaning that the longer it sits (within reason!), the better it tastes. This is a recipe where making it ahead is actually an advantage.
Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings: This hearty and flavorful soup is ideal for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings. It’s easily transportable and always a welcome addition to any spread. Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma are sure to draw in guests.

Ingredients and Utensils for Your Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Gathering the right ingredients and utensils will ensure a smooth and successful cooking experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Ingredients: A Precise List for Easy Chicken Taco Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides healthy fats and enhances the flavor of the soup. You can substitute with vegetable oil if preferred. Look for extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the base of the soup. Yellow onion is a classic choice, but white or red onion would also work well.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for that savory, pungent flavor that’s characteristic of many Mexican-inspired dishes. Use fresh garlic for the best taste; pre-minced garlic from a jar will do in a pinch.
1 pound ground chicken: The star of the show! Ground chicken provides lean protein and a delicious base for the flavors of the soup. You could substitute ground turkey or even ground beef for a different flavor profile.
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and juiciness to the soup. The undrained tomatoes contribute to the overall liquid volume and flavor.
1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture. Use whole kernel corn for a better bite.
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained: A great source of fiber and protein, black beans add heartiness and a subtle earthiness to the soup. Kidney beans or pinto beans could be used as a substitute.
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained: This is key to the characteristic flavor of this taco soup. The combination of tomatoes and green chilies delivers a wonderful spicy kick. If you can’t find Rotel, you can make your own blend of diced tomatoes and chopped green chilies.
4 cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup and enhances the savory flavors. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds warmth and smokiness. Experiment with different types of chili powder to find your favorite.
1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chili powder beautifully. Ground cumin is readily available in most grocery stores.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a kick of heat. Start with less and add more to your preference. If you don’t like spicy food, omit this ingredient entirely.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors of the soup. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy flavor and texture. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack cheese would also be delicious options.
Tortilla chips, for serving: Adds a crunchy texture and a delightful salty counterpoint to the soup. Choose your favorite brand or make your own homemade tortilla chips for an extra special touch.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional): Adds a tangy, creamy element. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream.
Chopped cilantro, for serving (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the flavors of the soup. This is a purely optional topping for those who appreciate the flavor of fresh cilantro.

Utensils: Tools for Easy Chicken Taco Soup Success

Large pot or Dutch oven: A large pot or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the soup. The size should be appropriate for the volume of ingredients; a 6-quart pot is a good starting point.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients and break up the ground chicken while it’s cooking. Avoid using metal utensils in non-stick pots.
Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurements are important for achieving the desired flavor balance in your soup. Having a set of measuring spoons and cups readily available will ensure consistency.
Can opener: Essential for opening all those cans of delicious ingredients!
Colander: Use a colander to drain the corn and rinse the black beans before adding them to the soup.
Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the soup into bowls. It also makes it easier to transfer the soup to another container for storage.
Serving bowls: Choose your favorite bowls to serve this delicious Easy Chicken Taco Soup in.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious and comforting Easy Chicken Taco Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. **Tip:** Don’t rush this step! Allowing the onions to soften fully will enhance their sweetness and create a more flavorful base for your soup.
Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, or until fragrant. **Tip:** Be careful not to burn the garlic; it will become bitter if overcooked. A minute is all it takes to release its delicious aroma.
Brown the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. **Tip:** Use a spoon or spatula to break up the ground chicken as it cooks to prevent large clumps from forming. This ensures even cooking and a more uniform texture.
Drain Excess Grease: Once the chicken is browned, drain off any excess grease. **Tip:** This step helps to reduce the fat content of your soup and prevents it from being overly greasy.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), corn (drained), black beans (rinsed and drained), Rotel (undrained), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). **Tip:** Make sure to stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly. This step ensures that the flavors will meld together beautifully during the simmering process.
Season and Simmer: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded. **Tip:** Taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder depending on your preference.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the Easy Chicken Taco Soup hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and cilantro (if desired). **Tip:** Garnishing your soup with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and tortilla chips adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Tips and Variations for Your Easy Chicken Taco Soup

Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Easy Chicken Taco Soup:

Spice Level Adjustment: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of the soup. If you prefer a milder soup, omit the cayenne pepper altogether. For those who enjoy a significant kick, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Replace the ground chicken with 1 (15 ounce) can of drained and rinsed vegetarian crumbles or a combination of lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian version. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth and omit the cheese and sour cream/yogurt.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to your Easy Chicken Taco Soup, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. Adding extra vegetables will increase the nutritional value of your soup and add more texture and flavor. Sauté the vegetables with the onions for best results.
Different Beans: Experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Each type of bean adds a unique flavor and texture to the soup.
Spice Blends: Instead of individual spices, you can use a pre-made taco seasoning packet. Just be mindful of the sodium content and adjust to your preference.
Creamy Texture: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the cooked soup before serving. This will create a smoother, more velvety consistency.
Slow Cooker Adaptation: You can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken as directed, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked chicken will become dry and tough. Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s browned but not overcooked. Similarly, don’t overcook the vegetables; they should be tender-crisp.
Salt Adjustment: Remember to taste and adjust the salt throughout the cooking process. It’s always better to add more salt gradually than to over-salt your soup from the start.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Easy Chicken Taco Soup

This Easy Chicken Taco Soup is not just delicious; it also offers several nutritional benefits:

Note: The nutritional information below is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of your ingredients.

High in Protein: The ground chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining satiety.
Good Source of Fiber: The black beans and corn provide significant amounts of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and contributes to feelings of fullness.
Rich in Antioxidants: The tomatoes and chilies are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: This soup contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C (from tomatoes), vitamin A (from corn), iron (from beans), and potassium (from tomatoes and beans).
Low in Fat (when using lean ground chicken): By using lean ground chicken and draining excess fat, you can keep the fat content relatively low, making it a heart-healthy option.

The approximate nutritional values per serving (assuming 6 servings) are:

Calories: Approximately 300-350
Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken in this Easy Chicken Taco Soup?

Absolutely! Shredded leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Simply skip the step of browning the ground chicken and add the shredded chicken along with the other ingredients.

How long can I store leftover Easy Chicken Taco Soup?

Leftover Easy Chicken Taco Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I freeze this Easy Chicken Taco Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are some good toppings for Easy Chicken Taco Soup?

Besides the suggestions in the recipe, you can also add avocado slices, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a squeeze of lime juice, or even a dollop of guacamole. Get creative and find your favorite combinations!

Is this Easy Chicken Taco Soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free chicken broth and tortilla chips. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

This Easy Chicken Taco Soup recipe is a true weeknight winner! It’s quick, simple, incredibly flavorful, and easily customizable to your preferences. From its speed and simplicity to its nutritional benefits and delicious taste, this soup has earned its place as a family favorite. It’s the perfect comfort food, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media. And for more delicious recipe ideas, check out our other recipes on Noelias Recipes! For even more inspiration, check out our Pinterest board for more amazing dishes. Happy cooking!

You might also enjoy our other popular recipes like Berenjenas con Miel or our Empanadas Recipe!