This Ground Chicken Taco Soup is a warm, cozy bowl filled with tasty chicken, beans, and veggies. It’s like taco night in soup form, making it perfect for a family dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? I whip this up quickly, and it always brings smiles at the table. Plus, it’s great with a sprinkle of cheese on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the soup. You can substitute it with ground turkey or even lean ground beef if you prefer. Beyond nutrition, ground turkey offers a lighter taste!
Beans: Black beans bring great texture and fiber, but feel free to swap in pinto beans or kidney beans. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chickpeas can work too!
Corn: I love using fresh corn when it’s in season for extra sweetness, but canned or frozen corn are perfect substitutes. They save time and still taste delicious!
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika is key for depth of flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, or you can add a dash of chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
How Do You Get Maximum Flavor from the Spices?
To really unlock the flavors of the spices in your soup, toasting them briefly is vital. Start by adding your spices after cooking the chicken, and give them about a minute to sizzle in the pan. This simple step wakes up the spices!
- Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle in your spices.
- Stir them into the mixture for about a minute over medium heat.
- The aromas will start to fill your kitchen, making the soup even more inviting!
Don’t rush! Cooking them a little longer allows their flavors to shine in the soup.
Ground Chicken Taco Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (or rotel)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
Toppings (Optional):
- Sliced avocado
- Tortilla chips or strips
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting soup ready to enjoy!
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the ground chicken to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
3. Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors, coating the chicken well.
4. Combine All Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine well.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a delicious soup.
6. Finish It Off:
If you like a creamy texture, stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Taste the soup and adjust any seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, topped with your choice of sliced avocado, crispy tortilla chips or strips, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest.
Enjoy your comforting Ground Chicken Taco Soup that’s both hearty and full of Mexican-inspired flavor!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and provides a similar texture and flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions as you would for the chicken.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder soup, you can use less chili powder and skip the diced tomatoes with green chilies. For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder. You can also top it with hot sauce before serving!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove until warmed through.
