Easy Creamy Chicken Taco Soup (Printable)
Comforting soup with tender chicken, beans, and creamy taco-seasoned broth. Ready in 40 minutes.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Protein
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
→ Vegetables & Beans
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
05 - 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
06 - 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
→ Liquids & Dairy
07 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 - 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
09 - 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
→ Spices & Seasonings
10 - 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
11 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Optional Garnishes
14 - Chopped fresh cilantro
15 - Sliced jalapeños
16 - Shredded cheddar cheese
17 - Crushed tortilla chips
18 - Lime wedges
# Steps:
01 - Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
03 - Add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with juices, chicken broth, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly to combine.
04 - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop flavors.
05 - Lower heat and stir in cubed cream cheese and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and the soup achieves a smooth, creamy consistency, about 5 minutes.
06 - Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle into individual bowls and add desired garnishes before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It comes together in under 45 minutes, making it a weeknight lifesaver
- The creamy broth feels fancy enough for company but casual enough for Tuesday dinner
02 -
- Cream cheese will curdle if you add it to boiling liquid, so lower that heat first
- The soup continues to thicken as it sits, so plan accordingly if you are making it ahead
03 -
- Cube your cream cheese small and let it soften on the counter for faster melting
- Make a double batch and freeze half for emergencies