Easy Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a breeze to make but packs a ton of flavor. The combination of chicken, taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, and creamy cheese makes for a rich, comforting dish. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s filling and delicious, and the best part is, it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving a spicy soup to warm you up or looking for a family-friendly dinner, this creamy chicken taco soup hits the spot.

Ingredients

• 2-3 chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 packet chicken taco seasoning (1/4 cup)
• 2 (10 oz) cans Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn (drained)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup heavy cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the chicken taco seasoning over the chicken breasts.
2. Add the Rotel diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings such as sour cream, cilantro, tortilla chips, or avocado.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: If you like a bit more heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup for extra spice.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and replace it with extra beans, such as pinto beans or kidney beans, for a meatless version.
• Different Cheese: Use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Taco-Inspired Toppings: Add classic taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime for a fresh finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or water if it has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe. Simply increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, to make this soup in a slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Shred the chicken, then stir in the cheese and heavy cream before serving.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Allow it to cool, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve.

4. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.

5. Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! You can use ground chicken in place of chicken breasts. Brown the ground chicken in the pot first, then follow the rest of the recipe.

6. How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water and stir it into the soup to thicken it. Alternatively, you can cook it longer to reduce the liquid slightly.

7. Can I use other beans besides black beans?

Yes! You can swap black beans for pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas if you prefer.

8. How can I make this soup spicier?

To make the soup spicier, add some chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to the mix. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

9. Can I use sour cream instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use sour cream instead of heavy cream. This will give the soup a tangy flavor while still making it creamy.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer. Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack are great alternatives to cheddar and will add a unique twist to the soup.

Conclusion

Easy Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines the best flavors of a chicken taco in a creamy, comforting soup. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this dish is a family favorite that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it as a meal or as part of a Taco Tuesday spread, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

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