slow cooker chicken taco soup

If you’re looking for a satisfying, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than slow cooker chicken taco soup. This recipe is a go-to for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves the convenience of “set it and forget it” cooking. By using a slow cooker, you can let the machine do the work, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify while you go about your day. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect slow cooker chicken taco soup, from key ingredients and variations to tips, tricks, and pairing suggestions.

What is Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup?

Slow cooker chicken taco soup is a hearty, Tex-Mex inspired dish that combines tender chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning in a flavorful broth. As the name suggests, it’s cooked in a slow cooker, which allows the ingredients to simmer over several hours, resulting in a deeply flavorful, perfectly cooked soup.

This soup is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even large gatherings since you can easily scale the recipe. Plus, the ingredients are inexpensive, and the cooking process is incredibly simple—just dump everything in, turn on the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.

Why Make Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup?

There are many reasons to make this soup, but here are the top benefits:

• Convenience: You can toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, go about your day, and come back to a fully cooked meal.
• Healthy: With lean chicken, beans, and vegetables, this soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
• Customizable: You can tweak this recipe to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.

The Essential Ingredients

To create a well-balanced slow cooker chicken taco soup, you’ll need the following core ingredients:

1. Chicken

Chicken breasts or thighs are typically used for this recipe. Both options are lean sources of protein, but thighs tend to be more flavorful and forgiving if you accidentally cook the soup a bit too long. If you’re looking for something lighter, go with breasts, and if you prefer a richer flavor, opt for thighs.

2. Beans

Most recipes call for a combination of black beans and pinto beans. Beans add heartiness to the soup, as well as fiber and plant-based protein. They’re also incredibly filling, which makes this soup a great option if you’re looking for a meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.

3. Corn

The sweetness and slight crunch of corn help balance the soup’s more savory and spicy elements. You can use frozen, canned, or fresh corn depending on what’s available.

4. Tomatoes

Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce are typically used in this soup. Tomatoes add acidity and richness to the broth, helping to balance the other flavors.

5. Taco Seasoning

A good taco seasoning mix is key to giving this soup its Tex-Mex flavor profile. You can use store-bought seasoning, but making your own allows you to control the salt and spice levels. Common spices include:

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika

6. Chicken Broth

Using a low-sodium chicken broth as the base of the soup ensures a flavorful but not overly salty result. It’s important to use broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor.

7. Optional Add-ins

To make the soup even more exciting, consider adding any of the following:

• Diced green chiles: For a bit more spice and flavor.
• Jalapeños: If you want to kick up the heat.
• Onion and garlic: While some recipes skip these to make prep easier, they can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Lime juice: A squeeze of lime before serving brightens the dish and adds a fresh note.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Chicken Taco Soup

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s dive into how to make slow cooker chicken taco soup. This recipe is designed to be simple and easy, so even if you’re a beginner cook, you’ll find it straightforward.

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping your ingredients. Drain and rinse your beans, measure out your spices, and chop any optional vegetables you’re including, such as onions or garlic.

2. Layer the Ingredients

Layer the chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over everything to ensure the ingredients are submerged. You want the chicken on the bottom to ensure it cooks evenly.

3. Set the Slow Cooker

Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it on low, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be.

4. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the soup.

5. Adjust Seasonings

Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning to suit your preferences.

6. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Popular toppings include:

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Cilantro
• Sliced avocado
• Tortilla chips or strips

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about slow cooker chicken taco soup is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can customize it to fit your needs:

1. Creamy Chicken Taco Soup

For a creamy version of the soup, you can stir in 4 oz of cream cheese or a cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking. The cream will add richness and make the broth thicker and more indulgent.

2. Vegetarian Taco Soup

If you prefer a meatless option, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu. You could also add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes to bulk up the soup and add more texture.

3. Low-Carb Taco Soup

For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this soup, skip the beans and corn, and replace them with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers.

4. Spicy Chicken Taco Soup

If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add more spice! You can add fresh or pickled jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a few drops of hot sauce to the slow cooker. You can also use spicy taco seasoning for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Chicken Taco Soup

Slow cooker chicken taco soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of side dishes to round out your meal. Here are a few ideas:

1. Cornbread

Sweet, moist cornbread is the perfect complement to the savory, slightly spicy flavors of chicken taco soup. You can also serve it crumbled on top of the soup for extra texture.

2. Tortilla Chips

For a crunchy element, serve the soup with a side of tortilla chips. You can dip the chips in the soup or crumble them on top for added crunch.

3. Salad

A fresh, crisp salad is a great side dish for this hearty soup. Consider a simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette, or go for a more complex salad like Mexican street corn salad.

4. Rice

If you want to make the meal even heartier, serve the soup over a scoop of rice. This works particularly well if you’re feeding a larger crowd and want to stretch the recipe a bit further.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

This slow cooker chicken taco soup recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits of the key ingredients:

• Chicken: Lean chicken breasts or thighs provide high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Chicken is also a good source of B vitamins, which help with energy metabolism.
• Beans: Black beans and pinto beans are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps you stay full for longer. They also provide plant-based protein and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
• Corn: A good source of vitamins B and C, corn adds sweetness and texture to the soup while providing fiber.
• Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that’s linked to heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Frozen Chicken in the Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. However, you may need to extend the cooking time by an hour or two to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I Make This Soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Simply use the “Soup” or “Manual” setting and cook for about 15-20 minutes, followed by a quick release of pressure. Shred the chicken as you would in the slow cooker version.

How Can I Thicken the Soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a can of drained, mashed beans or a few tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water toward the end of cooking.

Can I Use a Different Type of Protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground beef, turkey, or even pork. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, slow cooker chicken taco soup is a flavorful, easy, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a crowd, or simply looking for a comforting dinner, this soup has you covered. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender chicken, rich flavors, and a warm bowl of comfort.

So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!