7 Can Chicken Taco Soup: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

When it comes to easy, comforting meals, this 7 Can Chicken Taco Soup takes the crown. With just seven pantry staples and minimal prep, this hearty soup delivers all the bold flavors of a classic taco in a convenient, simple format. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Packed with tender chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and the perfect blend of taco seasonings, it offers a savory, satisfying meal with very little effort.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or meal prep, as it requires almost no cooking skills and can be made in just one pot. The addition of enchilada sauce and taco seasoning gives it that signature taco flavor that everyone loves, while the canned vegetables and beans make it hearty and filling. You can also customize it by adding your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado, turning this simple soup into a crowd-pleasing feast. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for feeding a family or serving at a gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Prep Required

With only seven ingredients, this soup comes together quickly with no chopping or complex steps. It’s perfect for those times when you need a fast and easy dinner.

2. Hearty and Filling

The combination of beans, chicken, and corn makes this soup both filling and nutritious. It’s a complete meal in a bowl.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

You can adjust the flavor by adding more taco seasoning, changing the type of enchilada sauce, or adding extra toppings like cheese, cilantro, or jalapeños.

4. Pantry-Friendly

This recipe relies on common pantry ingredients, so you can make it even when your fresh produce is running low or when you need a quick meal using what you already have on hand.

5. Perfect for Leftovers

This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s ideal for meal prep or as a leftover lunch.

Ingredients

• Canned cooked chicken (drained and shredded)
• Canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• Canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
• Canned corn (drained)
• Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• Canned diced tomatoes (undrained)
• Canned enchilada sauce (red or green)
• Taco seasoning packet
• Chicken broth (optional, for a thinner soup)

Variations

• Make it Spicy: If you like your soup spicy, add a diced jalapeño or extra chili flakes. You can also use a spicy enchilada sauce or hot taco seasoning.
• Use Fresh Chicken: Instead of canned chicken, use shredded rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken for a fresher flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Include additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional value.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan option, swap the chicken for more beans or use a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or tempeh.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the canned chicken, black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced tomatoes (with juice), enchilada sauce, and taco seasoning. Stir well to combine.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency (Optional)

If you prefer a thinner soup, add chicken broth to the pot, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want more flavor, add a pinch of salt, more taco seasoning, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a fresher, more flavorful soup, opt for shredded rotisserie chicken instead of canned chicken.
• Add Fresh Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup right before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Thicken the Soup: For a thicker soup, use less chicken broth or mash some of the beans with a potato masher to add creaminess.
• Stir Frequently: Stir the soup occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

How to Serve

This 7 Can Chicken Taco Soup is perfect when paired with a variety of toppings. Consider adding shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor and texture. For a more filling meal, serve the soup alongside cornbread, a side salad, or even a quesadilla.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The soup’s flavor will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat on the stove, adding a bit of chicken broth or water if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?

Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken and add it to the soup.

2. Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, add extra taco seasoning, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to increase the spice level.

3. Can I use different beans in the soup?

Feel free to substitute the black beans and pinto beans with other types of beans, such as kidney beans or white beans.

4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and replace it with additional beans or a plant-based protein to make it vegetarian.

5. Can I add cheese to the soup?

Absolutely! Top the soup with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, just before serving for added flavor.

6. How long does this soup take to make?

This soup takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy meal.

7. Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup?

Yes, you can combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.

8. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or frozen for longer storage.

9. Can I make this soup with a different type of broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth as a substitute for chicken broth, depending on your preference.

10. Can I add vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to enhance the soup’s texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

The 7 Can Chicken Taco Soup is an easy, flavorful, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a hearty, delicious soup that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it with your favorite toppings, this soup is guaranteed to become a go-to comfort food.

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