When the weather gets cooler or when you’re just craving a bowl of warm, hearty goodness, few things hit the spot quite like chicken taco soup. This crockpot recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves simple, flavorful meals with minimal prep work. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or want something to slow cook while you’re out, this chicken taco soup recipe delivers in every way.
Not only does this dish combine tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and spicy taco seasoning into a meal that is both comforting and nutritious, but it also offers a lot of flexibility. You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Plus, making this in a crockpot means you can “set it and forget it”—one of the biggest reasons slow cooker recipes are so popular.
Let’s dive into this chicken taco soup crockpot recipe, exploring its benefits, detailed instructions, ingredient variations, and tips for getting the most out of this versatile dish.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Taco Soup Crockpot Recipe
1. Convenience and Ease of Preparation
One of the biggest perks of this chicken taco soup is how easy it is to prepare. Simply toss all your ingredients into a crockpot, turn it on, and let it do all the work. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, and you’ll have a delicious, flavorful soup waiting for you by dinnertime. It’s an excellent choice for busy days when you don’t have much time to cook, but still want to enjoy a homemade meal.
This soup is also perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store the leftovers in the fridge for several days, or freeze them for a convenient meal later on. If you’re new to crockpot cooking, you’ll quickly see why people love it for making meals like this chicken taco soup and other slow-cooked dishes such as the crockpot spaghetti and meatballs, which is another easy and satisfying recipe.
2. Healthy and Nutritious
Not only is this soup tasty, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients. Chicken provides lean protein, while black beans add fiber and important nutrients like iron and magnesium. The tomatoes contribute a rich source of antioxidants, including lycopene, which is good for heart health. If you’re trying to eat healthier, this soup can easily be made even more nutritious by adding more vegetables, reducing the amount of salt, or using a homemade low-sodium taco seasoning.
3. Customizable to Your Diet
One of the best features of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, need a dairy-free option, or prefer a creamy soup, this recipe can be modified to meet your needs. You can make a vegetarian version by swapping out the chicken for extra beans or tofu. If you want a low-carb option, you can remove the corn and beans, replacing them with low-carb veggies like zucchini or cauliflower.
There’s a low-carb cottage cheese dip on Recipes Kaia that pairs well with this soup for those looking to reduce their carb intake.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Taco Soup
Here’s everything you need to create this hearty chicken taco soup:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, lime wedges, avocado slices, chopped cilantro
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
There are endless ways to make this chicken taco soup your own:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with more black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based protein like tofu. This creates a protein-rich soup without the meat.
- Low-Carb Option: Omit the beans and corn and add more low-carb vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower rice. This reduces the carbohydrate content while keeping the soup hearty.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level based on your preference. You can add chopped jalapeños, more hot sauce, or use spicier taco seasoning for an extra kick. Alternatively, use mild diced tomatoes for a milder version.
If you’re into beans, you can try a dense bean salad recipe that uses various types of beans for a hearty, flavorful side dish that complements the taco soup well.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Taco Soup in a Crockpot
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all of your ingredients. Drain and rinse the black beans and drain the corn. You can also chop any additional vegetables you’re using, like bell peppers or jalapeños.
2. Assemble in the Crockpot
Place the boneless chicken breasts, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth into the crockpot. Stir everything together so the seasoning is evenly distributed.
3. Cook on Low or High
Set the crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to meld together more thoroughly, but the high setting works just as well if you’re short on time.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them with two forks. The chicken should be tender and easy to pull apart. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it back into the soup.
5. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Some popular options include shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the top adds a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
If you want to make the soup extra creamy, stir in a block of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also add Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Taco Soup
This soup is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides:
Popular Toppings:
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and helps balance the spiciness.
- Tortilla Chips: Crumble them on top for an extra crunch.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves provide a bright burst of flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors.
Great Side Dishes:
- Mexican Rice: Serve a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
- Guacamole: A side of fresh guacamole pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Cornbread: For a Southern twist, try pairing the soup with cornbread. Consider making this pumpkin bread for a sweet, autumn-inspired side.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Chicken Taco Soup
To ensure your chicken taco soup turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips:
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
The better your ingredients, the better your soup will taste. Use fresh chicken, homemade taco seasoning if possible, and quality canned goods. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
While crockpots are very forgiving, you still want to avoid overcooking the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking times to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy. If you’re cooking on high, check the chicken after about 3 hours.
3. Adjust the Consistency
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or mash some of the beans with a potato masher before serving. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or water while cooking.
4. Make it Creamy
If you want a creamier version of the soup, consider stirring in a block of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This gives the soup a rich, luxurious texture.
5. Freeze for Later
This soup freezes exceptionally well. If you want to meal prep, double the recipe and freeze the leftovers in airtight containers. It will keep for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information for Chicken Taco Soup
This chicken taco soup is both healthy and filling. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
For a lower-calorie option, you can reduce or omit the cheese and sour cream. You can also opt for lean chicken breasts instead of thighs to cut down on fat content.
Looking for more healthy, nutrient-dense meal options? Try the keto cottage cheese dip for a snack that’s high in protein and low in carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Chicken Taco Soup Without a Crockpot?
Yes! If you don’t have a crockpot, you can still make this soup on the stovetop. Combine all of the ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot before serving.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat it through. This is especially useful if you’re looking to cut down on cooking time or make the recipe even easier.
How Long Does Chicken Taco Soup Last in the Fridge?
You can store this chicken taco soup in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you’re planning to freeze the soup, it will last up to three months. Be sure to label the container with the date so you know when to use it by.
Is Chicken Taco Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this soup dairy-free, simply omit the cheese and sour cream toppings or use dairy-free alternatives. For a creamy texture, you can stir in dairy-free cream cheese or yogurt alternatives.
Recipe Variations and Customization Ideas
The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
1. Low-Carb Chicken Taco Soup
For a low-carb version, omit the beans and corn. Instead, add more vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower rice, or spinach. This will reduce the carb content while keeping the soup flavorful and hearty.
2. Creamy Chicken Taco Soup
If you love creamy soups, this version is for you. Stir in a block of cream cheese or a cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a rich, creamy texture. Alternatively, you can use Greek yogurt to achieve a similar effect without the extra calories.
3. Spicy Chicken Taco Soup
For those who love heat, you can kick up the spice level by adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, extra jalapeños, or a few splashes of hot sauce. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning blend for a more intense flavor.
If you’re a fan of spicy dishes, you might also enjoy this white chicken chili recipe from Recipes Kaia. It offers a different flavor profile but provides the same level of warmth and satisfaction as this taco soup.
Conclusion
This chicken taco soup crockpot recipe is the ultimate go-to for anyone who loves flavorful, easy-to-make meals. With minimal prep time, a wealth of customization options, and the convenience of crockpot cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you like it spicy, creamy, or packed with vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
So give this recipe a try, experiment with your favorite variations, and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of chicken taco soup. Happy cooking!