Easy 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup
It’s a chilly evening, and you’re tired from work. The last thing you want to do is spend hours cooking. That’s where Chicken Taco Soup comes in. It’s a quick fix for those busy nights.
Imagine turning seven simple canned ingredients into a delicious dinner. Your family will love it. This soup is a lifesaver for those who want tasty comfort without the hassle.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is easy. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s both warm and satisfying. It’s like a taco but without the stress of complicated cooking.
Get ready to find the simplest, tastiest dinner solution. Your taste buds and schedule will thank you!
Why This 7-Can Soup Will Become Your Go-To Dinner
Imagine turning seven simple canned ingredients into a delicious Mexican cuisine masterpiece. This one-pot dinner is set to change your weeknight cooking with its ease and taste.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This family-friendly recipe is a lifesaver when time is short. It needs just 5 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. You’ll have a tasty meal ready before you can order takeout. Plus, it’s easy to make and very satisfying.
- Quick preparation: Only 5 minutes of prep time
- Total cooking time: Just 20 minutes
- Serves 6-8 people effortlessly
Budget-Friendly Meal Solution
Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank. This soup shows you can make a top-notch meal with pantry staples. Canned ingredients keep costs down while offering deep, rich flavors that will wow your family.
“Who knew seven cans could taste like hours of cooking?”
Year-Round Comfort Food
This chicken taco soup is perfect for any season. It’s warm and comforting in winter and refreshing in summer. You can add your favorite toppings to make it feel like a new dish every time.
- Freezes perfectly for up to 3 months
- Easily customizable with various toppings
- Nutritious and filling
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Taco Soup
Making a tasty chicken taco soup begins with the right pantry items. This affordable meal uses just seven key canned ingredients. These simple parts come together to make a delicious dinner.
Your essential ingredient lineup includes:
- 2 (10 oz) cans of Ro-tel diced tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can of black beans
- 1 (12 oz) can of corn
- 1 can of enchilada sauce
- Chicken broth (3 cups)
- Canned or rotisserie chicken (2 cups shredded)
- Taco seasoning (2 tablespoons)
These ingredients blend to create a rich flavor. Diced tomatoes add a tangy taste, black beans bring protein and texture, and corn adds a sweet crunch. Enchilada sauce gives the soup a classic Mexican flavor.
Choose low-sodium options to manage salt levels. Pro tip: Keep these pantry staples ready for quick, budget-friendly meals.
“A great soup doesn’t need complicated ingredients – just the right combination of flavors!”
Adding chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika can enhance your soup. These spices turn your basic canned ingredients into a dish fit for a restaurant.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a tasty one-pot dinner like Chicken Taco Soup is simple. You can use a slow cooker or the stovetop. Either way, you’ll have a warm meal ready in about 30 minutes.
Slow Cooker Method
The slow cooker method is great for those with busy schedules. Here’s how to do it:
- Put 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast in the slow cooker
- Add all 7 canned ingredients, including:
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- Low-sodium black beans
- Green chilies
- Pour in 32 oz of low-sodium chicken broth
- Sprinkle 1 oz of taco seasoning
- Cook on low for 6 hours
Stovetop Method
For a quick meal, try the stovetop method. It’s ready in 15-20 minutes:
- Brown chicken in a large soup pot
- Remove chicken and sauté diced onions and bell peppers
- Add all canned ingredients and broth
- Return chicken to pot
- Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally
Tips for Perfect Shredded Chicken
To get tender, flavorful shredded chicken, always let the meat rest. Use two forks to shred the chicken in the soup. This way, every bite is full of flavor.
Pro tip: For an extra flavor boost, deglaze your pot with ½ cup of beer before adding other ingredients!
Customizing Your Soup with Toppings and Add-ins
Turn your 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup into a Mexican masterpiece. Explore delicious toppings and creative additions. This recipe is perfect for making each bowl your own.
Boost your soup’s taste with these tasty toppings:
- Crispy tortilla strips
- Sharp shredded cheddar cheese
- Cool sour cream
- Diced fresh avocado
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
For extra texture and richness, try these add-ins:
- Roasted corn kernels
- Diced green chilies
- Crumbled queso fresco
- Lime wedges for squeezing
Need to change the soup’s consistency? Add chicken broth to thin it or simmer to thicken. This recipe is all about making it your own, so everyone gets their favorite bowl.
Pro tip: Layer your toppings for maximum flavor and visual appeal!
Conclusion
Your journey with the easy 7-can chicken taco soup is just starting. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick to make and full of flavor, making it a favorite.
This meal is also very flexible. You can change it to fit your family’s tastes. It’s great for dinner or lunch, offering both taste and nutrition. Just keep these seven canned items on hand for a quick meal anytime.
Don’t be afraid to try new toppings and spices. Share your version with loved ones. Your creativity could inspire others to enjoy this easy and tasty soup. Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most memorable.
So, get those seven cans ready. Whether you use a slow cooker or stovetop, you’re in for a treat. Your taste buds will love it!
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup?
This soup is quick to make! It’s ready in 20-30 minutes on the stovetop. Or, it takes 4-6 hours in a slow cooker with raw chicken. If you use pre-cooked chicken, it’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Just swap the chicken for black beans, plant-based chicken, or more veggies. Use veggie broth for a similar flavor.
Is this soup spicy?
The soup has a mild to moderate spice. You can adjust it to your liking. For less heat, use mild tomatoes and green chilies. For more spice, add chili powder or jalapeños.
How can I store leftover 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a bit of broth to keep it right. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, perfect for meal prep.
What are the best toppings for this soup?
Great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado. Also, try chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, and lime juice. They add texture and flavor.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Most canned items are gluten-free. Just check labels. Use gluten-free broth and taco seasoning. Serve with gluten-free chips for a gluten-free meal.
What side dishes pair well with this soup?
It goes great with cornbread, Mexican rice, and a green salad. Quesadillas or warm tortillas also work well. These sides enhance the soup’s flavors for a full meal.