Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

Try this Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe. It is so creamy and delicious. Not to mention easy! You will love this creamy taco soup recipe for family dinners, cozy nights in, or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while your crockpot does the work.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and taco seasoning creates a comforting, flavorful broth that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips for added texture and taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from black beans, this soup is a nutritious option for any meal.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves 8, making it perfect for family meals or parties without much hassle.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-quart crock pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Can opener
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-quart crock pot: Ideal for slow cooking large quantities, ensuring flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Knife: A sharp knife speeds up preparation by making chopping quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting ingredients while protecting your countertops.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• (1) 14 oz. can of black beans (Rinsed and Drained)
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/2 onion (chopped)
• (1) 8 oz. can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups chicken broth

Seasoning

• 2 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt

Creamy Addition

• 8 oz. Cream Cheese (Diced into small pieces)

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients. Rinse the black beans and chop the onion to ensure they are ready for cooking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Place all the ingredients except for the cream cheese in a 6-quart crock pot:
1. Add the chicken breasts.
2. Pour in the rinsed black beans, frozen corn, chopped onion, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, taco seasoning, and garlic salt.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Cover the crock pot:
– Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Once cooked:
1. Remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot.
2. Shred them using two forks before returning them to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Stir in the diced cream cheese:
– Cover again and cook on low for an additional hour or on high for 30 minutes until melted.

Step 6: Serve

Top with your favorite taco toppings like avocado or cilantro before serving. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup!

How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

This Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s not only filling but also versatile when it comes to toppings and sides. Here are some great ways to serve it.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Add a burst of freshness with chopped cilantro.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle your favorite cheese on top for extra flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the soup’s spices.
• Corn Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add texture and make great dippers.

Pair with Warm Breads

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These add an aromatic touch that complements the soup well.

Create a Taco Bar

• Taco Fixings: Set up a taco bar with various toppings so everyone can customize their bowls.

How to Perfect Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

To achieve the best version of this recipe, consider these helpful tips for a perfect outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture compared to canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by choosing mild or spicy taco seasoning based on your preference.
• Shred Chicken Well: Shredding the chicken finely allows it to blend seamlessly into the soup.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrition and color.
• Experiment with Broth: Different broths can change the flavor profile; try using homemade chicken broth if possible.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

This creamy taco soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some tasty options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices that soak up the soup perfectly.
2. Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole adds a creamy texture and enhances each bite.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
4. Simple Salad: A light salad with lime vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of soup.
5. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas stuffed with veggies or chicken are great for dipping into the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies adds nutritional value and color to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to add taco seasoning. This is crucial for flavor. Always measure and mix it well with the other ingredients.
• Using unwashed beans: Not rinsing canned black beans can make your soup too salty. Always rinse and drain them thoroughly before adding to the crockpot.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times for perfect tenderness.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can affect texture. Shred it finely after cooking to ensure even distribution in the soup.
• Forgetting the cream cheese: Adding cream cheese at the right time is essential for creaminess. Stir it in during the last cooking phase for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

How do I make Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with plant-based protein like jackfruit or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure to cook them longer; about 8-10 hours on low should suffice.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Popular toppings include avocado, cilantro, cheese, tortilla strips, and sour cream or yogurt alternatives.

How spicy is this Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe?

The spiciness largely depends on your choice of taco seasoning and whether you choose mild or hot salsa. Adjust according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Creamy Chicken Taco Soup Recipe is not only creamy and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is to prepare!