Deliciously Easy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, a wife, mom, and the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that has become a family favorite: Chicken Taco Soup. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Cooking is a cherished activity in my home, especially when my 6-year-old son joins in. We love to transform our cooking sessions into bonding moments, and this soup is a fantastic recipe for him to help with. It’s simple, fun, and packed with flavor!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather all the delicious ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Timing

Timing is everything in the kitchen! This Chicken Taco Soup can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient meal option. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious bowl of chicken taco soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Next, add the boneless chicken breasts to the pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides.

Step 3: Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients

Once the chicken is browned, it’s time to add all the fun ingredients! Pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

After simmering, remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir well.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your Chicken Taco Soup is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and fresh cilantro.

Nutritional Information

This soup is not only tasty but also nutritious! Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 10g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make this Chicken Taco Soup even healthier, here are some alternatives you can try:

• Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra flavor.
• Swap out regular cheese for low-fat cheese.
• Add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrients.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on sodium intake.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with:

• Warm tortilla chips for dipping.
• Homemade cornbread for a cozy meal.
• Freshly made guacamole to elevate the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using frozen chicken without thawing it first. It won’t cook evenly!
• Forgetting to rinse canned beans, which can lead to a gritty texture.
• Not tasting the soup before serving; adjust seasoning as needed!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare in our household!), here’s how to store your Chicken Taco Soup:

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Conclusion

There you have it! A deliciously easy Chicken Taco Soup recipe that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Cooking should be a joyful experience, and I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought my family.

Don’t forget to get your kids involved! Cooking together is a fantastic way to bond and create lasting memories. Trust me; it’s worth every moment spent in the kitchen.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving just like in the stovetop method!

Is this soup spicy?

The spice level depends on the type of diced tomatoes you use. If you prefer a milder soup, opt for regular diced tomatoes instead of those with green chilies.

Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, ground chicken works well! Just brown it in the pot before adding the other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you and your family enjoy this Chicken Taco Soup as much as we do! Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite ingredients or spices. Happy cooking!

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