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Chicken Taco Soup

Chicken Taco Soup is an easy, filling, flavorful dish that you can throw together quickly, anytime. I like to make a big batch of my Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Taco meat, and keep it in the freezer to toss in this soup on a busy evening!

Chicken Taco Soup

There is nothing better on a chilly fall or winter evening that sitting down to a big bowl of warm soup and some fresh bread. That’s one of my ultimate favorite comfort meals. Add in a crisp green salad with all the fixings, and I’m in a little bit of a dinner bliss.

Some soups can be labors of love, and while I love it when I have the time to pour the better part of an afternoon into a pot, that isn’t always what ends of happening these days.

This chicken taco soup is one that can be thrown together really quickly using what you already have on hand, and is a quick timesaver for an easy weeknight meal.

Serve this with some fresh corn cakes for a perfect pair!

Are you watching your carbs? Check out this awesome jalapeno cheese bread from Sweet C’s!

This is one of those awesome “dump and go” recipes that would work really well in a crockpot or slow cooker as well. You can adjust it to suit your family and your spice preferences, and really make this one your own.

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Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • Quick & Easy – Just toss everything in a pot and simmer. No complicated steps.
  • Pantry-Friendly – Uses common canned ingredients and seasoning packets.
  • Customizable – Top it how you want: sour cream, tortilla strips, cheese, cilantro—go wild.
  • Meal Prep Hero – Makes a big batch, reheats well, and freezes perfectly.
  • Great for Feeding a Crowd – Perfect for parties, potlucks, or big family dinners.

Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

  • Shredded Chicken – Use rotisserie, leftovers, or poached chicken breasts. Adds protein and substance.
  • Chicken Stock – Forms the base. Go for low-sodium if you’re using salted seasoning packets.
  • Taco Seasoning Packets – Brings in the spice. Homemade or store-bought both work.
  • Dry Ranch Dressing Mix – Adds tangy depth and rounds out the flavors.
  • Chili Beans – These usually come in a seasoned sauce and add body to the soup.
  • Canned Corn – Drained before adding. Adds sweetness and crunch.
  • Rotel (Tomatoes with Green Chiles) – Brings heat and acidity.
  • Stewed Tomatoes – Adds more tomato flavor and soft texture.
  • Cilantro – For garnish. Bright and fresh.
  • Sour Cream – Creamy contrast to the soup’s heat.
  • Tortilla Strips – Crunchy topping to finish.
  • Shredded Cheese or Cotija – Melty or crumbly, adds richness.

How To Make This Recipe

This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.

  1. Add All Ingredients to Pot – Combine shredded chicken, stock, seasonings, beans, corn, and both tomato types in a large pot.
  2. Bring to a Simmer – Heat over medium-high until it starts bubbling.
  3. Simmer Gently – Lower to medium-low and simmer for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Taste and Adjust – Add salt or more seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve with Toppings – Dish up hot and garnish with sour cream, cheese, cilantro, and tortilla strips.

FAQ

Can this be made with raw chicken?

Yes! If you don’t have any leftover cooked chicken around, you can toss a couple of big chicken breasts in with all of the broth ingredients. Simmer, until they are cooked and shreddable, and then remove them from the pot and shred.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Absolutely. This soup stores well in the fridge for 4–5 days and tastes even better the next day.

What’s The Best Way To Reheat It?

Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot, or microwave individual bowls in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.

Can I Freeze Chicken Taco Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

What Can I Use Instead Of Chili Beans?

Pinto beans, black beans, or kidney beans work. Add a bit of chili powder or cumin if using unseasoned beans.

Is There A Way To Make This Spicier?

Add extra Rotel, a chopped jalapeño, or some hot sauce to turn up the heat.

More Mexican-Inspired Recipes

Yield: 8 people

Chicken Taco Soup

Chicken Taco Soup

This easy chicken taco soup uses ingredients you probably have on hand already. 

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 cups shredded chicken (or 2 large chicken breasts)
  • 2 quarts chicken stock
  • 2 packets taco seasoning (or your favorite homemade version)
  • 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
  • 1 can chili beans
  • 1 can corn, drained
  • 1 can rotel
  • 1 can stewed tomatoes

Garnish

  • cilantro
  • sour cream
  • tortilla strips
  • shredded cheese or cotija cheese

Instructions

  1. Pour all ingredients into a large pot.
  2. Simmer for 30 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
  3. Serve with your favorite garnishes, and a big piece of cornbread!

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

8

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 418Total Fat: 23gSaturated Fat: 7gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 718mgCarbohydrates: 14gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 35g

Nutrition data provided here is only an estimate. If you are tracking these things for medical purposes please consult an outside, trusted source. Thanks!

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