Taco Soup is the weeknight win when you want a set-and-forget dinner that still delivers big taco flavor. This cozy slow cooker version layers chicken breasts, fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, and corn with warm taco spices. After a hands-off simmer, you’ll shred the chicken right in the pot and finish each bowl with avocado, cilantro, lime, and crunchy tortilla strips.
Why You’ll Love It
This is true dump-and-go comfort with clean, bold flavors. Fire-roasted tomatoes add smoky depth, beans and corn bring texture and fiber, and the slow cooker builds richness while you do literally anything else. It’s a natural fit for Crock Pot cooking, easy to scale, and friendly to topping bars for family or game night.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 yellow onion, diced (optional but recommended)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5-oz) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 (4-oz) can diced green chiles (mild or hot)
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (low-sodium if available)
- 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
To serve: diced avocado, chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar, lime wedges, baked tortilla strips
Optional classic twist: 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning for “Taco Soup with ranch packet” flavor
Instructions (Slow Cooker)
- Load the pot: Add onion, garlic, tomatoes, chiles, beans, corn, broth, taco seasoning, cumin, and paprika. Nestle in the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook 6–7 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH, until chicken is tender.
- Shred & finish: Shred chicken with two forks directly in the cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls; add avocado, cilantro, cheddar, tortilla strips, and a squeeze of lime.
Stovetop Option (Taco Soup Stove Top)
Sauté onion in 1 tbsp olive oil 3–4 minutes; add garlic 30 seconds. Add spices, then tomatoes, chiles, beans, corn, broth, and 1 lb diced chicken. Simmer 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked; season and serve.
Health Benefits
- Protein for satisfaction: Lean chicken supports fullness and muscle repair.
- Fiber for balance: Black beans and corn add fiber to support digestion and steady energy.
- Antioxidants: Tomatoes and cilantro bring vitamin C, lycopene, and phytonutrients.
Variations
- Creamy style: Stir in 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt off heat for silky body without heavy cream.
- Extra veg: Add diced bell pepper or zucchini before cooking.
- Heat control: Chipotle powder for smoky spice; skip chiles for kid-friendly mild.
Pro Tips
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for depth and low-sodium broth to control seasoning.
- Bloom spices by stirring them in before adding chicken for fuller flavor.
- Hold toppings until serving so textures stay crisp and fresh.
Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently and refresh with lime, cilantro, and avocado.
Serving Ideas
Pair with a simple green salad, warm tortillas, or a side of cilantro-lime rice. For Soup Ideas, set out a topping bar for everyone to customize their bowl—think Nacho Soup vibes in spoonable form.
