Description
Creamy Taco Chicken Soup is a soulful, nourishing bowl that combines the vibrant, earthy flavors of taco-inspired spices with a velvety, comforting base. Featuring tender chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a luxurious blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, this soup is elevated by fresh cilantro and a squeeze of bright lime. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quiet moment of reflection, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a restaurant-quality meal that satisfies both the body and the spirit.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 large yellow onion, finely diced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups high-quality chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Fresh lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear until browned, then remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté the onion until translucent, then whisk in the flour to form a light roux.
Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika, cooking for one minute until fragrant.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to ensure a smooth base.
Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes and return the chicken to the pot.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Stir in the shredded cheddar and cream cheese until completely melted and velvety.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Notes
Substitute chicken thighs with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken if short on time; just add it during the final simmering stage. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg