Name: Creamy Chicken Taco Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 can pinto beans (drained and rinsed); 1 can petite diced tomatoes; 1 can sweet corn (drained); 1 can green enchilada sauce; 1 can chicken broth; 8 ounces cream cheese (cubed); 1 packet taco seasoning; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, jalapeños, cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream

Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy goodness into a delightful meal. Its easy preparation makes it accessible for busy weeknights, while its rich flavors ensure everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and creamy ingredients creates a taste sensation that warms your soul.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your soup with favorite toppings like cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream to suit everyone’s taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.
Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will love this comforting soup, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Creamy Chicken Taco Soup effortlessly, gather your essential tools and equipment before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing enough room for simmering.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop toppings like jalapeños and cilantro without mess.

Ingredients

Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is a soup that is as easy to make as it is to enjoy, filled with chicken, corn, beans, tomatoes, cream cheese, and spices.

For the Soup Base

2½ cups (350 g) rotisserie chicken, (shredded)
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, (drained and rinsed)
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, (drained and rinsed)
1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) sweet corn, (drained)
1 can (28 ounces) green enchilada sauce
1 can (14 ounces) chicken broth

For the Seasoning

1 packet (2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For Creaminess

8 ounces cream cheese, (cubed, room temperature)
1 cup (113 g) cheddar cheese, (shredded)

For Garnish

jalapeno, (sliced for garnish)
cilantro, (chopped for garnish)
lime wedges, (for garnish)
sour cream, (for garnish)
tortilla chips, (for serving)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

To a large pot over medium-high heat, add:
1. Shredded chicken,
2. Black beans,
3. Pinto beans,
4. Diced tomatoes,
5. Sweet corn,
6. Green enchilada sauce,
7. Chicken broth,
8. Taco seasoning,
9. Cumin,
10. Chili powder,
11. Garlic powder.

Bring to a boil.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Lower the heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes. In the final 10 minutes of cooking:
– Add in the cubed cream cheese.
– Stir until melted and combined thoroughly.

Step 3: Serve with Toppings

Top your creamy chicken taco soup with:
– Shredded cheddar cheese,
– Sliced jalapeños,
– Chopped cilantro,
– Lime wedges,
– A dollop of sour cream,
– A side of tortilla chips.

Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or serving guests, these suggestions will enhance your soup experience.

Toppings for Extra Flavor

Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheddar cheese on top for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Sliced Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick that complements the soup’s flavor.
Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish and adds a refreshing taste.
Lime Wedges: Squeeze lime over your soup for a zesty contrast to the rich flavors.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.

Accompaniments

Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for crunch and extra texture.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado can elevate your soup and provide healthy fats.
Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread pairs perfectly with the soup’s richness.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is all about balance and technique. Here are some tips to make it even better:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
Balance the Spices: Adjust taco seasoning according to your taste preferences; feel free to add more cumin or chili powder for extra heat.
Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
Mix in Fresh Ingredients: Adding fresh ingredients like chopped onions or bell peppers can enhance both texture and flavor.
Experiment with Broths: Try different types of chicken broth for varied taste profiles, such as low-sodium options.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Pair your Creamy Chicken Taco Soup with these delicious side dishes to create a complete meal. Each option complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.

Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, cornbread is a classic side that enhances the savory notes of the soup.
Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds richness and freshness, making it an excellent pairing with your soup.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices provides a filling addition that balances out the meal.
Grilled Veggies: A medley of grilled vegetables adds color and nutrition alongside your bowl of soup.
Crispy Tortilla Strips: Crunchy strips are perfect for dipping and offer delightful texture contrast.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These soft breadsticks bring cheesy goodness that pairs well with all soups, including this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Taco Soup can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to adequately season their soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings like taco seasoning and spices to enhance flavors.
Not using rotisserie chicken: Using raw chicken can increase cook time significantly. Opt for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful base.
Ignoring ingredient temperatures: If your cream cheese is cold, it may not melt well. Ensure it’s at room temperature before adding it to the soup.
Overcooking the soup: Allowing the soup to simmer too long can cause ingredients to break down. Keep an eye on cooking times for best results.
Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes add flavor and presentation. Don’t forget toppings like cilantro, lime, and cheese for a complete experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Taco Soup.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey or shredded turkey works perfectly as a substitute in this recipe.

What if I want it spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include jalapenos directly into the soup while cooking for extra heat.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative or coconut cream.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Taco Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly comforting and full of flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl that warms the heart!