This Ground Chicken Taco Soup is warm and full of flavor! With tender chicken, beans, and colorful veggies, it’s perfect for any taco lover.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just throw everything in the pot, let it simmer, and enjoy. It’s a cozy dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl! 🌮❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star protein of the dish. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or beef as a substitute. It may change the flavor slightly, but they still work great!
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add flavor and texture. If you’re not a fan, use shallots and any color bell pepper, or skip them entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Black Beans and Corn: Packed with fiber, they’re essential in this soup. You can swap black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans, and use frozen corn if canned isn’t available.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin create the taco flavor. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount based on your taste!
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and balances the heat. Feel free to use Greek yogurt as a healthier option. Non-dairy yogurts also work for a vegan choice.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Soup?
Getting the flavors just right can make your soup a star! Here are some tips:
- Start by sautéing the onions and bell peppers until soft; this step builds a solid flavor base.
- Don’t skip toasting the spices! Cooking them for just a minute helps unlock their full flavor.
- Let it simmer! The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will blend together beautifully.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a splash of lime juice at the end for a fresh zing.
With these tips, your Ground Chicken Taco Soup will be a hit every time! Enjoy cooking!
Ground Chicken Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Protein: 1 lb ground chicken
- Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- Flavor Additions:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Garnishes:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ground Chicken Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
2. Add the Aromatics:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. This will give your soup a delightful aroma!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up. Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Ensure that the chicken is well cooked through.
4. Season the Soup:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
5. Combine All Ingredients:
Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and chicken broth into the pot. Stir everything together until it is well combined.
6. Let It Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as necessary.
8. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Each bowl can be garnished with a dollop of sour cream, a few slices of avocado, extra chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for that delightful crunch!
9. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot and enjoy your delicious and hearty Ground Chicken Taco Soup! It’s perfect for any day of the week!
Can I Use a Different Protein in This Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein option like lentils or crumbled tofu if you prefer a meatless version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Can I Spice It Up?
If you like more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper to the spice mix for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian or vegan, use a plant-based ground meat substitute and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more beans and vegetables for heartiness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave, but be sure to stir occasionally for even heating!
