Advertisement
Imagine coming home on a chilly evening, the aroma of spices wafting through the air, welcoming you to a warm, comforting bowl of creamy chicken taco soup. This dish is the perfect combination of bold flavors, creamy texture, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe will become a family favorite. Let’s get started on creating this flavorful masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken Taco Soup
- Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy base creates a dish that’s irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, this soup is perfect for any skill level.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings and sides to make it your own.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Taco Soup
Spice Blend
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
Ancho chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Table salt | 1 teaspoon |
Ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
Oregano | 1/4 teaspoon |
Cayenne pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
Soup Base
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cooking oil (e.g., avocado oil) | 1 tablespoon |
Medium onion, diced | 1 (200 g) |
Garlic, minced | 2 teaspoons |
Ground beef | 1 lb (453 g) |
Tomato paste | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
Fire roasted diced tomatoes | 2 cans (15 oz/425 g each) |
Black beans, drained and rinsed | 1 can (15 oz/425 g) |
Pinto beans, drained and rinsed | 1 can (15 oz/425 g) |
Mexican-style corn, drained | 1 can (11 oz/311 g) |
Diced green chiles | 7 oz (198 g) |
Beef broth | 3 cups (710 ml) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Spice Blend
- Combine all the spices in a small bowl.
- Whisk together until well blended. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it into crumbles, until it’s mostly browned.
- Drain excess grease if necessary.
4. Add the Flavor Base
- Sprinkle the spice blend over the beef and stir well.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring to incorporate.
5. Build the Soup
- Pour in the fire roasted diced tomatoes, black beans, pinto beans, Mexican-style corn, diced green chiles, and beef broth.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Creamy Touch (Optional)
- If you prefer a creamy soup, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Sides: Serve with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 300 |
Protein | 20 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Fiber | 7 g |
Sodium | 800 mg |
Tips for Success
- Balance the Spice: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
- Boost the Flavor: Use homemade beef broth for a richer taste.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
FAQs About Creamy Chicken Taco Soup
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or ground chicken works wonderfully in this recipe.
2. How do I make this soup spicier?
Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh jalapeños.
Advertisement
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can substitute fresh, diced tomatoes, but you may need to simmer longer to achieve the same depth of flavor.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the broth and spices are certified gluten-free.
5. How can I thicken the soup?
Add a slurry of cornstarch and water or stir in a handful of shredded cheese for a thicker consistency.
6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics and brown the meat first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion: Try It Tonight!
Now that you know how to make creamy chicken taco soup, it’s time to gather your ingredients and bring this recipe to life. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag your loved ones in the joy of this delicious dish!
What are you waiting for? Get cooking and savor every spoonful of this creamy, flavorful delight!
PrintCreamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Taco Soup! Bursting with bold spices, tender chicken, and a creamy base, this hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Spice Blend:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (e.g., avocado oil)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 lb (453 g) ground beef
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cans (15 oz each) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (11 oz) Mexican-style corn, drained
- 1 can (7 oz) diced green chiles
- 3 cups (710 ml) beef broth
Optional for Creamy Touch:
- 1 cup heavy cream or dairy-free alternative
Instructions
Prepare the Spice Blend:
Combine all the spices in a small bowl and whisk together. Set aside.
Advertisement
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat cooking oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Meat:
- Add ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
4. Add the Flavor Base:
- Sprinkle the spice blend over the cooked beef and mix well.
- Add tomato paste, stirring to combine, and cook for 1 minute.
5. Build the Soup:
- Add fire-roasted diced tomatoes, black beans, pinto beans, Mexican-style corn, diced green chiles, and beef broth.
- Stir thoroughly and bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Creamy Touch (Optional):
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative for a creamy finish.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels by modifying the cayenne pepper.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- This soup freezes well; portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or a plant-based alternative for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-American