How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup (Easy Recipe)

Are you searching for a warm and satisfying meal that’s simple to make? This easy recipe for slow cooker chicken taco soup is perfect. It’s a hit with families and needs little prep, letting you relax while it cooks.

slow cooker chicken taco soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup (Easy Recipe)

Recipe by DaniaCourse: SoupCuisine: American
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

6

hours 
Calories

350

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 can of diced tomatoes

  • 1 can of chicken broth

  • 1 can of black beans

  • 1 can of corn

  • 1 can of diced green chillies

  • 2 cans of tomatoes with chillies

  • Fresh & Pantry Ingredients:
  • 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing chicken or sautéing veggies)

  • 1 tbsp chilli powder

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp lime juice (added at the end)

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

  • Optional Toppings:
  • Shredded cheese

  • Sour cream or Greek yoghurt

  • Avocado slices

  • Crushed tortilla chips

  • Jalapeño slices

  • Queso fresco or cotija cheese

Directions

    This recipe is all about ease. With a few ingredients, you get a tasty and filling dish. The slow cooker handles all the work, making it great for when you’re short on time.

    Coming home to a warm, delicious meal is truly comforting. Homemade chicken taco soup is just that, offering a nourishing and satisfying meal. It’s a family favorite because of its flavor, simplicity, and convenience for busy households.

    A comforting scene of a hearty chicken taco soup simmering in a rustic slow cooker. The foreground features a rich, tomato-based broth flecked with tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of warming spices. The middle ground showcases an array of toppings - crisp tortilla strips, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and a dollop of tangy sour cream. The background softly blurs, creating a cozy, homely atmosphere, lit by the gentle glow of a kitchen window. The lighting is natural and diffused, casting a comforting, inviting ambiance. The composition is balanced, with the soup bowl taking center stage, conveying the nourishing, satisfying nature of this classic comfort food.

    The foreground features a rich, tomato-based broth flecked with tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of warming spices. The middle ground showcases an array of toppings – crisp tortilla strips, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and a dollop of tangy sour cream. The background softly blurs, creating a cozy, homely atmosphere, lit by the gentle glow of a kitchen window. The lighting is natural and diffused, casting a comforting, inviting ambiance. The composition is balanced, with the soup bowl taking center stage, conveying the nourishing, satisfying nature of this classic comfort food.

    Why This Recipe Becomes a Family Favorite

    This chicken taco soup recipe is loved by both kids and adults. The flavors are rich and balanced, making it enjoyable for everyone. Additionally, the slow cooker handles all the cooking for you, making it a real time-saver in the kitchen.

    • Easy to prepare
    • Customizable to suit different tastes
    • Perfect for busy days
    • Delicious and satisfying

    To make the perfect slow cooker chicken taco soup, start with the right ingredients. This recipe is simple and uses high-quality parts.

    The “7-can chicken taco soup” uses seven canned ingredients. These are diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, corn, green chilies, and two types of tomatoes with chillies.

    The canned chicken broth adds a rich flavor, like homemade broth. Choose low-sodium canned goods to control salt.

    Canned IngredientPurpose
    Diced TomatoesAdds a burst of juicy sweetness
    Canned Chicken BrothProvides a rich, savory flavor
    Black BeansContributes protein and fiber
    CornAdds a touch of sweetness and texture
    Diced Green ChiliesBrings a mild heat and freshness
    Tomatoes with ChiliesEnhances the soup with a spicy kick

    Choosing the right chicken is key for flavor and texture. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.

    Fresh ingredients add flavor and nutrition to the soup. Onions, garlic, and cilantro are must-haves for depth and freshness.

    A vibrant still life capturing the essential ingredients for a hearty slow cooker chicken taco soup. In the foreground, a pile of cubed chicken breasts, glistening with a light coating of olive oil. Beside them, a scatter of spices - chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne - their warm hues creating a rustic contrast. In the middle ground, an array of diced bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, their textures and colors radiating a sense of freshness. In the background, a trio of cans - black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth - casting long shadows, hinting at the depth of flavor to come. The scene is illuminated by soft, natural lighting, casting gentle shadows and highlighting the ingredients' vibrant tones.

    Proper preparation is key to get the most out of your slow cooker. This ensures your Mexican-inspired Chicken Taco Soup is flavorful and satisfying.

    Getting your chicken ready right is vital for great flavor. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, then dry them with paper towels, this removes impurities and excess moisture, helping the chicken cook evenly.

    Season the chicken with taco seasoning or spices that match your soup’s Mexican flavors. For more flavor, sear the chicken in a hot pan with oil before adding it to the slow cooker.

    Canned beans and diced tomatoes are common in slow cooker recipes. Rinsing canned beans reduces sodium and enhances flavor, for diced tomatoes, add them straight to the slow cooker but drain some liquid for a thicker soup.

    Always check canned goods’ expiration dates and look for damage before using them.

    The flavor base of your Chicken Taco Soup makes it stand out. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and sometimes bell peppers until they’re soft. This brings out their sweetness and flavor.

    Add this mixture to the slow cooker with your other ingredients. A splash of broth or diced tomatoes with green chilies can also enhance the soup’s taste.

    You need to prepare your ingredients first. Then, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious meal.

    For the standard method, cook on low for 6 hours. Put the chicken, canned ingredients, and spices in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is covered.

    About 30 min before serving, check if the chicken is tender. Shred it with two forks. Then, add fresh ingredients like cilantro or lime juice for extra flavor.

    For a quicker option, cook on high for 4 hours. The steps are the same, but check the chicken more often. After 4 hours, shred the chicken and return it to the pot.

    Stir well and adjust the seasoning if needed. This method is great for busy days when you want a homemade meal.

    Your soup is done when the chicken is tender and the flavors are rich.

    If you want a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes before serving.

    To make a healthier taco soup, use low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes. You can also use less taco seasoning or a low-sodium version. To reduce fat, choose boneless, skinless chicken breast and use less or low-fat cheese

    Healthier OptionStandard VersionBenefit
    Low-sodium beansRegular beansReduces salt intake
    Low-fat cheeseRegular cheeseDecreases saturated fat
    Chicken breastChicken thighsLower fat content

    To make it gluten-free, just make sure your taco seasoning is gluten-free. Also, check the ingredients in your canned goods, you can also use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.

    With these easy changes, you can enjoy a delicious, healthy taco soup that meets your dietary needs. Ideal for any setting, whether you’re dining solo or feeding a crowd.

    Make your taco soup even better with these tasty toppings and serving ideas. Your 7 canned soup recipe is now even more exciting!

    Give your taco soup a Mexican twist with these garnishes, add shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a bit of sour cream. For more flavor, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or fresh cilantro on top.

    Other great choices are diced onions, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of queso fresco. These toppings will add flavor and a festive vibe to your soup.

    Be adventurous with your taco soup toppings. Try roasted vegetables, grilled corn, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese. For a spicy kick, sliced hot peppers.

    Other fun options are crushed Fritos or diced tomatoes. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combination.

    Pair your taco soup with a side dish that enhances its flavors. Accompany it with warm tortillas, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. Grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread also make great pairings.

    Other good choices are Mexican street corn, roasted vegetables, or a fruit salad. Pick a side that you love, and you’ll have a complete and satisfying meal.

    To enjoy your slow cooker chicken taco soup at its best, even on busy days, it’s crucial to understand the proper methods for storing, freezing, and reheating.

    When storing your chicken taco soup in the refrigerator, it’s essential to follow food safety guidelines. Let the soup cool to room temperature within two hours after cooking to avoid bacterial growth. Transfer it to shallow, airtight containers to promote fast and even cooling. Properly stored in the refrigerator, the soup will remain fresh for 3 to 4 days.

    Tip: Label your containers with the date and contents to keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

    For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Use freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat the soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or thaw it quickly by submerging the container in cold water. Frozen chicken taco soup can be safely stored for up to three months.

    • Use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
    • Label containers with the date and contents.
    • Freeze in portions for easy meal planning.

    Reheating your chicken taco soup correctly is crucial to maintaining its flavor and texture. Reheat the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If the soup has thickened during storage, you can thin it with a bit of chicken broth or water. Avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause the flavors to become dull and the texture to become unappealing.

    Now that you know how to make slow cooker chicken taco soup, try it out. Enjoy the ease of making it and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones. This soup is a hit with its rich flavors and health benefits, and it will be a favorite in your kitchen.

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