You Need to Try Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup – It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

The first time I made Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup, I was hooked by its tender chicken, zesty spices, and hearty black beans. Let me show you how to make this easy, versatile recipe—perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to a stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it a family favorite in no time!

This chicken taco soup is a winner. It features tender shredded chicken, protein-packed black beans, sweet corn, and a vibrant taco seasoning blend. But the real fun begins when you customize it with your favorite toppings—get ready for a flavor adventure!

What Makes Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup So Special?

A Twist on a Classic

Forget the same old boring soup routine! This chicken taco soup takes the comforting warmth of a classic chicken soup recipe and infuses it with the bold, zesty flavors of a taco. It’s a delightful fusion of culinary worlds, where the savory broth meets the heartiness of black beans and the sweetness of corn, all seasoned with the unmistakable kick of taco seasoning. The result is a unique and satisfying flavor profile far from ordinary – it’s comfort food with a fiesta! Think of it as a quick chicken soup recipe that’s anything but basic.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best things about this Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup is that it doesn’t require a gourmet pantry. The essential ingredients – shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and chicken broth – are easily found at any grocery store. You can make this taco soup whenever the craving strikes without a complicated shopping trip. Plus, despite its rich and satisfying flavor, it’s surprisingly wholesome, offering a good source of protein and fiber in every bowl. It’s proof that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated!

Customizable and Versatile

This Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup is a true chameleon in the kitchen! It’s incredibly easy to adapt to your tastes and dietary needs. Want a creamier texture? Mix in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese for a creamy touch. Craving some heat? Spice it up with a splash of hot sauce or a tiny sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Need a vegetarian option? Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and load up on the beans!

Make it your own

The beauty of this easy chicken soup recipe is that it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings, vegetables, or spices to create your signature version of this taco soup. The possibilities are endless! Whether you like it mild, spicy, creamy, or loaded with veggies, this recipe is your chance to create the perfect bowl of Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Surprisingly Yummy Taco Soup

The Essential Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to create this flavorful and surprisingly yummy chicken taco soup. Precision is key, but adjust the amounts to suit your preferences. This easy chicken soup recipe is about finding the right balance for your taste buds.

• 1.5 pounds cooked and shredded chicken (about 3 cups) – A rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained – Adds heartiness and fiber.
• 1 (15-ounce) canned corn, drained – Provides sweetness and texture.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Forms the flavorful base.
• 1 (10-ounce) can be diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Ro-tel), undrained—for a spicy kick!
• 8 ounces tomato sauce – Contributes to the rich sauce.
• 6 cups chicken broth – Low sodium is recommended to control the salt.
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning – The key to that taco flavor!
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Infuses a warm, earthy depth with a hint of smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – Provides a mild heat and depth of flavor.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped – Builds a flavorful base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a pungent aroma.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.

Optional Garnishes and Toppings

The toppings are where you can personalize your taco soup experience! Here are some of my favorites:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Adds tang and creaminess.
• Shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese – Melts beautifully into the soup.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a bright, citrusy freshness to your dish.
• Diced avocado – Adds healthy fats and creaminess.
• Lime wedges – A zesty touch that wakes up every bite.
• Tortilla chips or tortilla strips – For a satisfying crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to make some adjustments? No problem! This Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup is very forgiving.

• Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth for a plant-based boost. Add an extra can of black beans or a block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed for added protein.
• Low-Carb Option: Omit the corn or reduce the amount to 1/2 cup. Add more low-carb vegetables like bell peppers.
• Spicy Option: Use “hot” Ro-tel or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Another great option is a finely chopped jalapeño, sautéed with onion and garlic.
• Creamy Option: Stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese or 1/2 cup of sour cream near the end of the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Deliciousness

Stovetop Method (Most Common)

This easy chicken soup recipe is a breeze to make on the stovetop! Follow these simple steps for a delicious and satisfying bowl of Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics (5 minutes): Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute until its aroma fills the air. This is a crucial step for building flavor!

Combine the Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (including Ro-tel if using), tomato sauce, chicken broth, taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Bring to a Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

Simmer for Flavor (15-20 minutes): Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer if you have time. The more it simmers, the deeper the flavors blend.

Taste and Adjust: Taste the taco soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, taco seasoning, or chili powder to your liking.

Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chicken taco soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes – sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado, and tortilla chips are all great options!

Slow Cooker Method (Set it and Forget It!)

Make this easy chicken soup recipe in your slow cooker for ultimate convenience. Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you when you get home!

• Combine Ingredients: In the bowl of your slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (including Ro-tel if using), tomato sauce, chicken broth, taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
• Cook: Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Shred Chicken (if needed): If you used chicken breasts instead of pre-shredded chicken, shred the chicken with two forks before serving.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the taco soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chicken taco soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Highlight the convenience: This slow cooker version allows you to savor a tasty, hearty meal with minimal effort.

Instant Pot Method (Quick and Easy)

Craving Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup but short on time? The Instant Pot can help! This method makes cooking faster and more efficient.

• Optional Step: Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ to cook the aromatics. Add the olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until it releases a fragrant aroma. (This step adds extra flavor, but you can skip it if pressed for time.)
• Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (including Ro-tel if using), tomato sauce, chicken broth, taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder to the Instant Pot.
• Pressure Cook: Lock the lid onto the Instant Pot, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes for perfectly tender results.
• Release Pressure: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quickly release any remaining pressure.
• Shred Chicken (if needed): If you used chicken breasts instead of pre-shredded chicken, shred the chicken with two forks before serving.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the taco soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chicken taco soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Emphasize speed: “This Instant Pot method delivers a flavorful and satisfying bowl of taco soup in a fraction of the time!”

Safety Tips to consider when handling the Instant Pot

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific Instant Pot model before use.
• Never overfill the Instant Pot beyond the maximum fill line.
• Make sure the sealing ring is properly in place before pressure cooking.
• Be careful when quick-releasing pressure, as hot steam will escape rapidly. Stay clear of the steam vent with your face and hands.
• Never force the lid open if there is still pressure inside the pot. Wait for all the pressure to release naturally, or use the quick-release method carefully.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup

Flavor Boosting Techniques

Want to elevate your Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup from delicious to extraordinary? Try these simple yet effective flavor-boosting techniques:

• Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding other ingredients: This simple step unlocks a depth of flavor you can’t get by skipping it. The caramelized sugars create a rich and savory base for taco soup.
• Using high-quality taco seasoning: The taco seasoning is the heart and soul of this recipe, so choose a brand you love or make your own using a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Adding a squeeze of lime juice at the end: A slight acidity goes a long way! A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up all the flavors and adds a zesty tang that perfectly complements the soup’s richness.
• Using a flavorful chicken broth: The broth is the foundation of this easy chicken soup recipe, so choose a good quality chicken broth or even homemade stock for the best results. Bone broth can also add extra depth and richness.

Storage and Reheating

This chicken taco soup tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it to preserve its delicious flavor:

• Refrigerator: Let the soup cool thoroughly before sealing it in an airtight container for the fridge. It should be kept chilled for no more than 3 to 4 days.
• Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the soup in individual portions or a larger freezer-safe container. It can stay fresh in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating (Stovetop): Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Reheating (Microwave): Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated.

Serving Suggestions

Turn this easy chicken soup recipe into a complete and satisfying meal with these serving ideas:

• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is a classic and comforting accompaniment.
• Crackers: Serve with your favorite crackers for dipping and dunking.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for an extra cozy meal.
• Guacamole: Top with a dollop of guacamole for healthy fats and extra flavor.
• Taco Bowl: Serve over rice and add your favorite taco toppings for a heartier meal.

Recipe Variations

Get creative and put your spin on this Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup with these delicious variations:

• Creamy Chicken Taco Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, sour cream, or cream cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a more prosperous and creamier texture.
• Spicy Chicken Taco Soup: To kick up the heat, add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Low-Carb Chicken Taco Soup: Omit the corn and black beans, and add more low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower.
• Adding different proteins to the soup: Substitute the shredded chicken with ground beef, ground turkey, shredded pork, or even cubed tofu for a vegetarian option. Chorizo sausage would also add a delicious and spicy flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Taco Soup (and FAQs)

H3: The Perfect Family Meal

This Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a recipe for happy bellies and satisfied smiles. The dish pulls everyone together, excited to savor every bite. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, customizable enough to please even the pickiest eaters, and undeniably delicious. The comforting flavors and hearty ingredients make it a true crowd-pleaser, and you’ll find yourself making this easy chicken soup recipe repeatedly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Got questions about this taco soup? Here are some answers to common queries:

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can, but it’s best first to thaw it to ensure even cooking and food safety.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! This Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
• How long does it last in the fridge? Properly stored in an airtight container, this chicken taco soup will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this easy chicken soup recipe freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, and it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• What if I don’t have taco seasoning? No worries! You can easily make your own using chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. (See the recipe in the ingredients section!)

Nutritional Information (Optional)

These approximate values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Talk to a qualified nutrition expert for tailored advice on your diet.

From busy weeknights to cozy weekends, this Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup is the perfect solution for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Its surprisingly yummy taste, ease of preparation, and endless customization options make it a true winner. Whether you prefer the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, you can quickly have this easy chicken soup recipe on the table.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort! Now it’s your turn. Have you tried this taco soup? What are your favorite toppings or secret ingredients? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below! If you loved this quick chicken soup recipe, share it with your friends and family on social media, and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious and inspiring recipes. Happy cooking, and enjoy!