Easy Creamy Chicken Taco Soup (Print Version)

Comforting soup with tender chicken, beans, corn, and creamy taco-seasoned broth. Ready in 40 minutes.

# Recipe Ingredients:

→ 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 (e.g., Rotel), 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 or 2 tbsp homemade)
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

# Directions:

01 - Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
02 - Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
03 - Stir in the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with juices, chicken broth, taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all seasonings.
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 the heat and add the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir continuously 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 bowls and top with desired garnishes.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 40 minutes but tastes like it simmered all afternoon
  • The creamy broth strikes that perfect balance between rich and comforting without being too heavy
  • You can customize the toppings so everyone gets exactly what they crave
02 -
  • The cream cheese will resist melting at first so keep stirring and have patience, it will eventually incorporate completely
  • If you plan to freeze leftovers, hold off on adding the cream and freeze just the base, then add dairy when reheating
  • The soup continues to thicken as it sits so you may need to splash in a little extra broth when reheating the next day
03 -
  • Use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the beans against the side of the pot for a thicker, heartier texture
  • Squeeze in fresh lime juice right before serving to brighten all the rich creamy flavors

Go Back