I’m always on the hunt for recipes that satisfy both my taste buds and my busy schedule, and this chicken taco soup absolutely delivers. When the weather turns chilly or I’m craving something hearty, nothing comforts quite like a steaming bowl of this Mexican-inspired goodness. What makes it truly special? It’s the perfect balance of convenience and flavor—ready in just 30 minutes but tasting like it simmered all day. Want to know the secret to making this crowd-pleaser your new weeknight hero?
Why You’ll Love this Chicken Taco Soup
This chicken taco soup might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner, as it combines all the flavors you love about tacos in a comforting, warm bowl. I’m talking about a perfect blend of protein, veggies, and spices that come together in just 30 minutes.
What’s not to love about a recipe that uses convenient rotisserie chicken and pantry staples? The beans provide hearty protein, while the corn adds a touch of sweetness. And those taco seasonings? They transform ordinary ingredients into something truly crave-worthy.
Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. More heat? Less beans? Your soup, your rules.
What Ingredients are in Chicken Taco Soup?
This easy chicken taco soup requires simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or can quickly grab at the store.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 can red kidney beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn (15 oz), drained
- 3 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup mild salsa
- 1 can petite diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 2–3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups chicken broth
Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences—maybe add a bit more taco seasoning for extra kick, or swap the rotisserie chicken with leftover grilled chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
How to Make this Chicken Taco Soup
Step 1: Heat and Sauté the Base
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add your drained and rinsed black beans and kidney beans along with the corn, then sprinkle in 3 tablespoons taco seasoning.
Let everything sauté until the veggies soften slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Having a set of premium baking tools will also make measuring these ingredients more precise and enjoyable.
Step 2: Add the Tomato Elements
Pour in 1 cup of mild salsa and the entire 15-ounce can of petite diced tomatoes.
These ingredients create that rich, tangy base that makes taco soup so comforting and gives it that authentic Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Step 3: Incorporate the Protein
Add 2-3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot.
Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor that plain chicken breast simply can’t match.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Add 2 cups of chicken broth and stir everything together.
The broth brings all these beautiful ingredients together, creating that perfect soup consistency that’s neither too thick nor too thin.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Turn up the heat slightly and bring the entire mixture to a gentle boil.
You’ll know it’s ready when you see bubbles forming consistently across the surface of the soup.
Step 6: Reduce and Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes.
This simmering time is essential—it allows all the flavors to meld together and creates that rich, complex taste that makes this soup so satisfying.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Sometimes a little extra taco seasoning or a pinch of salt can make all the difference in bringing the flavors to life.
Step 8: Serve Hot with Optional Toppings
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and, if desired, top with dollops of cool sour cream and slices of creamy avocado.
The contrast between the hot soup and cool toppings? Simply divine.
What to Serve with Chicken Taco Soup
This hearty soup works beautifully as a complete dinner on its own, but a few simple sides can turn it into a feast.
Warm cornbread with honey butter makes the perfect dipping companion—something about that sweet-savory combo just works magic with the spiced soup. A simple side salad with lime vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to balance the richness.
For toppings, set out bowls of crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro so everyone can customize their bowl.
And don’t forget drinks! A tall glass of Mexican horchata or a crisp lime-spiked seltzer cuts through the richness perfectly. For something more substantial, cheese quesadillas on the side make this meal absolutely irresistible for both kids and adults.
Chicken Taco Soup Substitutions and Variations
This soup is wonderfully flexible—perfect for using what you already have on hand!
• Protein Options: Substitute ground turkey, beef, or plant-based crumbles for the rotisserie chicken.
Or go meatless with extra beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Bean Varieties: Pinto or white beans work beautifully in place of kidney or black beans.
Use what’s in your pantry!
• Dietary Needs: Already gluten-free, just check your taco seasoning ingredients.
For dairy-free serving, skip the sour cream or use coconut yogurt instead.
• Heat Level: Dial up the spice with jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce.
Mild palates? Reduce the taco seasoning to 2 tablespoons.
- Fresh Touches: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or fresh lime juice for brightness.
- Fun Toppings: Try crushed Fritos, sliced radishes, pickled red onions, or a dollop of guacamole for extra pizzazz.
Leftovers and Storage for this Chicken Taco Soup
This soup is one of those magical recipes that actually tastes even better the next day, once all those spices have had time to mingle and deepen.
Talk about meal prep perfection!
Refrigerator Storage:
- Transfer cooled soup to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days
- Store toppings separately to maintain their texture
Freezer-Friendly:
- Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months
- Leave a bit of headspace for expansion
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
Reheating Tips:
Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave works too—just use medium power and stir halfway through.
If the soup thickens too much in storage, add a splash of broth to reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Taco Soup brings together the best of two comfort foods—hearty soup and zesty tacos—in one satisfying bowl.
The combination of beans, corn, and tender rotisserie chicken creates a meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful, while the taco seasoning and salsa provide that distinctive southwestern kick we all crave.
It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something substantial on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether served as a casual family dinner or portioned out for lunches throughout the week, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful—a reliable recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.