Introduction
Cozy up with a bowl of this delightful Chicken Taco Soup, perfect for chilly evenings or a fun taco night with family. Bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground chicken to the pot and cook until browned.
- Mix in the taco seasoning, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn.
- Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings of your choice.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or using a spicier taco seasoning.
- This soup can easily be made in a slow cooker; just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
Cooking Techniques
Using a large pot allows for efficient cooking and flavor melding, while sautéing the vegetables first enhances their flavors and adds depth to the overall soup.
FAQ
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option.
- Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, as long as the taco seasoning is gluten-free, this soup is suitable for gluten-free diets.
- Can I use fresh beans instead of canned? For a more authentic flavor, you can use cooked fresh beans, but cooking time will vary.
Conclusion
This Chicken Taco Soup is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and full of vibrant flavors, it makes for a fantastic meal that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to make it your own with your favorite toppings!