Go Back

High Protein Chicken Taco Soup - A Cozy, Satisfying Weeknight Meal

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 to 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), raw or use 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (about 2–3 tablespoons) or homemade
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra warmth)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional if your taco seasoning is mild)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 (10-ounce) can tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for body and richness)
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: Greek yogurt or sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, green onions

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Season the base: Sprinkle in taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  3. Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in chicken broth. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomatoes with green chiles, and tomato paste until dissolved.
  4. Add chicken and simmer: Nestle raw chicken breasts into the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook 12–16 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F and shreds easily.
  5. Shred the chicken: Transfer chicken to a plate and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  6. Beans and corn: Stir in black beans, pinto beans, and corn. Simmer uncovered 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly and let flavors meld.
  7. Brighten and adjust: Stir in lime juice. Taste and season with salt and pepper. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
  8. Serve with toppings: Ladle into bowls and finish with your favorite toppings. For extra protein, use a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.