Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup Slow Cooker
Lina
Enjoy a hearty, flavor-packed Spark Recipes Chicken Taco Soup Slow Cooker with tender chicken, bold spices, and easy prep. Perfect for cozy meals!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 6 minutes mins
Total Time 6 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course Main Dish, Soup
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired, Tex-Mex
Servings 6 People
Calories 320 kcal
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or substitute with chicken thighs for extra tenderness)
- 1 packet taco seasoning or use a homemade blend for a fresher, more customizable flavor
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz corn kernels, drained
- 1 can 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes (adds depth and a hint of smokiness)
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (for a mild kick of spice)
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth adjust for desired soup consistency
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin deepens the warm, earthy flavor
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky undertone
- ½ teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste for spice level
- Juice of 1 lime brightens and balances the flavors
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor & Texture
- Looking to enhance your soup with more richness and depth? Try these variations:
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers adds a slight crunch and sweetness
- 1 cup diced zucchini a great way to sneak in extra veggies
- ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream for a creamy version
- ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped (for a vibrant, herby finish)
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend
Toppings & Garnishes for the Perfect Bowl
- Toppings can take this soup from delicious to unforgettable. Here are some of the best pairings:
- Sliced avocado for creamy richness
- Crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast
- Fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness
- Sliced jalapeños for extra heat
- A dollop of sour cream for a cool tangy balance
- Extra lime wedges for a zesty finishing touch
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
A little preparation ensures the best flavor and texture:
Drain and rinse the black beans and corn to remove excess sodium.
Dice the onion and mince the garlic to enhance the depth of flavor.
Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs.
Measure out the spices to keep everything organized.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Proper layering allows for even cooking and a well-balanced flavor:
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker—this ensures they stay moist and absorb all the delicious seasonings.
Sprinkle the taco seasoning directly onto the chicken for full flavor coverage.
Add the canned ingredients—black beans, corn, fire-roasted tomatoes, and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are covered but without stirring too much.
Top with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and additional spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
As the soup simmers, the flavors will meld together beautifully, creating a deep, rich broth.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a plate or cutting board.
Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces—it should be tender and pull apart easily.
Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Adjust and Brighten the Flavor
Squeeze in fresh lime juice to enhance the brightness and balance the spices.
Taste and adjust seasoning—if you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder; for a deeper smoky flavor, a bit more smoked paprika works wonders.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes to customize each serving:
Sliced avocado for a creamy texture
Crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast
Fresh cilantro for a bright, herby finish
Sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick
A dollop of sour cream for a cool, tangy balance
Extra lime wedges for an added citrus boost
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
Keyword Chicken Taco Soup, crockpot taco soup, Easy Taco Soup, slow cooker soup, Tex-Mex soup