Chicken Taco Soup – Easy, Flavorful & One-Pot Meal Recipe

Chicken taco soup is a delicious and comforting dish that blends the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the warmth of a homemade soup. It’s a perfect combination of juicy shredded chicken, savory beans, sweet corn, and a rich tomato-based broth, all seasoned with classic taco spices. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep and just one pot for an effortless yet satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a cozy dish for a cold evening, chicken taco soup checks all the boxes. With multiple cooking methods—stovetop, slow cooker, and Instant Pot—you can prepare it in the way that best suits your schedule. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or add your favorite toppings for a personal touch.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best chicken taco soup, from choosing the right ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, storage tips, and serving ideas. By the end, you’ll have a foolproof recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

What is Chicken Taco Soup?

Chicken taco soup is a flavor-packed, Mexican-inspired dish that combines the essence of tacos with the comforting warmth of a soup. It includes shredded chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasonings, creating a rich and hearty broth with bold, smoky flavors.

Unlike traditional tacos, which are served with tortillas, this soup delivers all the taco goodness in a spoonable form. It’s often topped with cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and crunchy tortilla chips, making it just as satisfying as its classic counterpart.

Origins and Inspiration Behind Chicken Taco Soup

While the exact origins of chicken taco soup are unclear, it is a dish that evolved from Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. The combination of slow-cooked meats, beans, tomatoes, and chili spices is a staple in many Latin American dishes, from chili con carne to tortilla soup.

However, chicken taco soup stands out because it simplifies the flavors of tacos into a hearty one-pot meal. Over time, it became popular in American kitchens, especially as a quick and easy dinner option for busy families.

Many versions exist today, with some recipes featuring a creamy texture, others focusing on extra heat, and some using different proteins like ground beef or turkey. No matter the variation, the base ingredients and signature taco flavors remain the same.

How Chicken Taco Soup Differs from Other Soups

Chicken taco soup often gets compared to tortilla soup and chili, but there are key differences:

Each of these soups offers unique flavors and textures, but chicken taco soup stands out because it is quick to make, hearty yet light, and perfect for customization.

Ingredients for Chicken Taco Soup

One of the best things about chicken taco soup is its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up this dish anytime. Whether you prefer a traditional version, a low-carb alternative, or a vegetarian twist, this soup is incredibly versatile.

Below, we’ll break down the essential ingredients and explore some variations for different dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients

To make a classic chicken taco soup, you’ll need the following:

1. Protein

• Cooked and shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or boiled chicken breasts/thighs work well.
• If using raw chicken, you can cook it directly in the soup and shred it later.

2. Vegetables & Beans

• Black beans – Adds texture, protein, and fiber.
• Kidney beans (or pinto beans) – A second type of bean enhances the soup’s heartiness.
• Corn (canned, frozen, or fresh) – Provides natural sweetness that balances the spices.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel) – Gives the soup a tangy, slightly spicy flavor.
• Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes – Helps create a thick, rich broth.
• Onions & garlic – Essential aromatics that add depth to the flavor.

3. Broth & Seasonings

• Chicken broth – The base of the soup, adding richness and depth.
• Taco seasoning – A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
• Chili powder & cumin – Enhances the bold, smoky flavors.
• Salt & pepper – To taste.
• Lime juice – Adds brightness and freshness before serving.

4. Optional Ingredients

• Heavy cream or cream cheese – For a creamy variation.
• Hot sauce or jalapeños – For extra spice.
• Fresh cilantro – A must-have for garnish!

Customization Options for Dietary Preferences

Whether you want to make this soup healthier, spicier, or more filling, here are some customization options to fit your dietary needs:

🍽️ Low-Carb/Keto Version

• Omit the beans and corn to reduce carbs.
• Add diced bell peppers and cauliflower rice for texture.
• Use full-fat cream cheese or heavy cream to create a creamy base.

🌿 Vegetarian/Vegan Version

• Swap chicken for extra beans, tofu, or jackfruit.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Top with avocado and dairy-free sour cream for a creamy finish.

🔥 Extra-Spicy Version

• Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing onions.
• Use extra chili powder or cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix.
• Drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

🥣 Creamy Version

• Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, cream cheese, or shredded cheese at the end.
• Blend a portion of the soup to create a thicker, smoother texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Taco Soup

Now that we have covered the essential ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process! One of the great things about chicken taco soup is its versatility—you can cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker (Crockpot), or using an Instant Pot. Each method has its own benefits, so choose the one that best suits your schedule.

Stovetop Method (Quick & Easy!)

This is the fastest way to prepare chicken taco soup, ready in about 30 minutes.

📝 Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

🔪 Instructions:

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they turn soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Stir to combine.
3. Season the soup: Add the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth.
6. Serve and garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro.

Slow Cooker Method (Set & Forget!)

This method is perfect for busy days—just throw everything in the Crockpot and let it do the work!

🔪 Instructions:

1. Add ingredients: Place all ingredients except toppings into the slow cooker. Stir to mix everything well.
2. Cook:
   • Low setting: Cook for 6-8 hours.
   • High setting: Cook for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the chicken: If using whole raw chicken breasts, remove them after cooking, shred with a fork, and return the shredded chicken to the soup.
4. Serve: Ladle into bowls and add toppings of choice.

Instant Pot Method (Super Fast & Hands-Free!)

If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot will have this soup ready in just 30 minutes!

🔪 Instructions:

1. Sauté the onions & garlic: Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, heat olive oil, and cook the onions for 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Add all ingredients: Add chicken, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and stir.
3. Pressure cook:
   • Seal the lid and set the valve to Sealing.
   • Cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 10 minutes.
   • Let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then release the remaining steam manually.
4. Shred the chicken: If using raw chicken breasts, remove them, shred them with a fork, and return to the soup.
5. Serve: Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Taco Soup

Extra depth of flavor: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the broth enhances the taste.
For a thicker soup: Mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
Creamy texture: Stir in ½ cup of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end.
For more heat: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder.
For meal prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Best Toppings and Serving Ideas

One of the best things about chicken taco soup is how customizable it is! A bowl of this soup is already flavorful on its own, but adding toppings elevates the taste and texture. Whether you like it cheesy, creamy, or crunchy, there’s a topping for everyone.

Recommended Toppings for Chicken Taco Soup

Here are some delicious toppings that pair perfectly with this soup:

Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend adds a rich, melty texture.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – A dollop balances the spice and makes the soup creamy.
Avocado Slices or Guacamole – Adds a smooth, buttery contrast to the bold flavors.
Fresh Cilantro – Brings a pop of freshness.
Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime enhances the flavors and adds brightness.
Crushed Tortilla Chips or Strips – For a satisfying crunch.
Diced Jalapeños – Perfect for those who love extra heat.
Hot Sauce or Salsa – A great way to customize spice levels.
Pickled Red Onions – Adds a tangy twist.

Adding a combination of these toppings makes each bowl unique and even more flavorful!

What to Serve with Chicken Taco Soup

While chicken taco soup is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with side dishes makes it even better. Here are some popular sides to serve with your soup:

🥖 Bread & Chips

• Cornbread – A sweet and buttery side that complements the spice.
• Tortilla Chips & Queso – Great for dipping!
• Cheesy Garlic Bread – Adds a crunchy, cheesy bite.

🌮 Mexican-Inspired Sides

• Quesadillas – A cheesy, crispy addition.
• Tacos or Mini Tostadas – Serve alongside for a full Tex-Mex meal.
• Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice – A flavorful side that absorbs the soup’s broth.

🥗 Fresh Sides

• Simple Green Salad – A light and refreshing contrast.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
• Sliced Cucumbers & Tajín – A spicy, tangy palate cleanser.

Whether you’re making this soup for a family dinner, game night, or meal prep, these sides take it to the next level!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

One of the best things about chicken taco soup is that it tastes even better the next day! The flavors have more time to meld, making leftovers even more delicious. Plus, it’s great for meal prep since it stores and reheats well.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator:

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• Chicken taco soup freezes beautifully!
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay flat for easy storage).
• Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if too thick.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

📌 Tip: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Common Variations of Chicken Taco Soup

Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

• Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, cream cheese, or sour cream at the end for a rich, creamy texture.

Spicy Chicken Taco Soup

• Add extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Use spicy taco seasoning instead of regular.

Low-Carb Chicken Taco Soup

• Omit the beans and corn to reduce carbs.
• Add bell peppers and cauliflower rice for texture.

Vegetarian or Vegan Chicken Taco Soup

• Replace chicken with extra beans, tofu, or jackfruit.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Top with dairy-free cheese and avocado for a plant-based version.

Looking for another quick and healthy chicken dish? Try this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe – Easy, Quick & Healthy Meal.

Need a light and delicious lunch option? This Chicken Wrap Guide – Best Recipes, Tips & Healthy Variations is perfect for busy days.

Want a hearty side dish to go with this soup? Try this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole – Cheesy & Delicious Recipe for a complete comfort meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can Taco Soup Last?

Taco soup can last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months.

• Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a container. Store in the fridge and reheat as needed.
• Freezing: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

📌 Pro Tip: The flavors deepen over time, making the soup even tastier the next day!

Does Chicken Broth Go in Taco Soup?

Yes! Chicken broth is an essential ingredient in taco soup. It serves as the base of the soup, providing moisture and depth of flavor.

• Regular Chicken Broth: Works well for a traditional, slightly rich flavor.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: A great option if you want to control salt levels.
• Vegetable Broth: A substitute for a vegetarian or vegan version.

📌 Tip: If you prefer a thicker, chili-like consistency, use less broth or add cream or cheese to make it richer.

What Makes Taco Soup Thicker?

If you prefer thicker taco soup, try these easy methods:

Mash some of the beans: Use a spoon or potato masher to mash a portion of the beans while cooking. This releases natural starches, thickening the broth.
Reduce the broth: Simply use less chicken broth for a thicker consistency.
Add a cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water, then stir into the soup. Let it simmer until thickened.
Use tomato paste: Adding 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste can give the soup a richer texture.
Stir in cream or cheese: Heavy cream, cream cheese, or shredded cheese will make it creamy and thick.

📌 Tip: If your soup is too thick, you can always add a little extra broth to thin it out!

What Do You Eat with Chicken Taco Soup?

Chicken taco soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better! Here are some popular serving ideas:

🥖 Bread & Chips

• Cornbread – Sweet, buttery, and perfect for dipping.
• Tortilla Chips & Salsa – A crispy side that complements the soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread – A delicious, comforting addition.

🌮 Mexican-Inspired Sides

• Quesadillas – A cheesy, crispy treat that pairs well with the soup.
• Mini Tacos or Tostadas – Serve alongside for a full Tex-Mex meal.
• Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice – A great way to soak up the flavorful broth.

🥗 Fresh Sides

• Simple Green Salad – A light and refreshing contrast.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
• Sliced Cucumbers with Tajín – A spicy, tangy, and refreshing bite.

📌 Tip: Don’t forget the toppings—cheese, sour cream, avocado, and lime wedges take this soup to the next level!

Conclusion

Chicken taco soup is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, it’s an easy one-pot meal that’s great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.

With endless customization options and delicious toppings, you can personalize each bowl to your taste. Plus, it stores and reheats well, making it a meal you can enjoy for days.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, hearty, and satisfying bowl of chicken taco soup! 🌮🥣

Chicken Taco Soup – A Hearty, Flavorful One-Pot Meal

This easy chicken taco soup is packed with bold Mexican flavors, juicy shredded chicken, hearty beans, corn, and a rich tomato-based broth. Made in just one pot, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex

Servings 6

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot (for stovetop method)
• Slow cooker (Crockpot) (for slow cooker method)
• Instant Pot (for pressure cooking method)
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Ladle for serving
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

  

• For the Soup:
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken rotisserie or boiled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can 15 oz corn, drained
• 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
• 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 packet or 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon chili powder optional, for extra heat
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional Toppings:
• Shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh cilantro chopped
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges
• Crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

 

• 🔹 Stovetop Method:
• 1️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• 2️⃣ Add Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Stir to combine.
• 3️⃣ Season the Soup: Add taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
• 4️⃣ Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• 5️⃣ Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 5 more minutes. If the soup is too thick, add more broth.
• 6️⃣ Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro.
• 🔹 Slow Cooker Method:
• 1️⃣ Place all ingredients (except toppings) in a slow cooker and stir to combine.
• 2️⃣ Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• 3️⃣ If using raw chicken breasts, remove them after cooking, shred with a fork, and return to the soup.
• 4️⃣ Serve with toppings of choice.
• 🔹 Instant Pot Method:
• 1️⃣ Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, heat olive oil, and cook onions for 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• 2️⃣ Add all remaining ingredients and stir well.
• 3️⃣ Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 10 minutes.
• 4️⃣ Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then release the remaining steam manually.
• 5️⃣ Stir, ladle into bowls, and garnish with toppings.

Notes

To make it creamy, add ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
For a low-carb version, skip beans and corn and add diced bell peppers instead.
To thicken the soup, mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).

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