Want a dinner that feels like a million bucks but costs less than ten? This Quick Chicken Taco Soup – Family-Friendly & Fast is my secret weapon. I developed this recipe during a particularly lean week, and it’s been a family favorite ever since.
You don’t need expensive ingredients to eat well. This creamy taco soup is proof that a little creativity goes a long way. It’s a one pot meal that delivers huge flavor without the huge grocery bill.
We all need those go-to recipes that are fast, forgiving, and fabulous. This is one of those soups you can feel great about serving. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, just like our popular Crack Chicken Stuffed Shells.
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick glance at what you’re making. I love how this recipe fits into even the busiest of weeknights.
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Category: Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Saves You Money
I built this recipe from the ground up to be kind to your wallet. Let me show you how it works.
First, it uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients. Canned beans, tomatoes, and corn are incredibly cheap, especially when you buy store brands. They form the hearty base of this dish.
Second, using chicken instead of ground beef can often be more economical. You can use a less expensive cut, like thighs, or even shred a rotisserie chicken. This flexibility is key to budget cooking.
Finally, it’s a complete meal in one pot. You’re not spending extra on side dishes. A pot of this soup means lunch is covered for the next day, too. That’s a win-win.
My Tips for Smart Shopping on a Budget
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that keep my grocery bill low. I want to share my favorites with you.
Always buy your beans, corn, and tomatoes canned. The store-brand versions are just as good as the name brands. I stock up when they’re on sale.
Quick Chicken Taco Soup – Family-Friendly & Fast Recipe
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Quick Chicken Taco Soup – Family-Friendly & Fast Recipe!
Nutrition Information
Consider buying chicken in bulk when it’s discounted. You can freeze what you don’t use immediately. This is a game-changer for planning affordable meals all month long.
Don’t overlook frozen vegetables. A bag of frozen corn is often cheaper than fresh and works perfectly in this taco soup recipe. It’s a simple swap that saves cash.
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
Here’s everything you’ll need. I promise, this list is as simple as it is affordable.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for the creamy finish)
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
This process is incredibly straightforward. You’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked chicken. Stir it for about a minute until the chicken is coated and fragrant. This blooms the spices and builds a deep flavor base.
3. Now, add all the canned goods! That’s the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Don’t drain the tomatoes with green chilies—that liquid adds great flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Turn off the heat. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. This is what transforms it into a wonderfully creamy taco soup. Be careful not to boil it after adding the cream.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. I love it with a sprinkle of cheese and a few tortilla chips on the side for crunch.
How to Use Up Every Last Bit (No Waste!)
I hate throwing food away. Here’s how I ensure every component of this meal gets used.
If you have leftover soup, it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely and store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. It makes for a fantastic future fast meal.
Got a little leftover chicken broth from the carton? Freeze it in an ice cube tray. Those broth cubes are perfect for adding flavor to rice or sauces later on.
If you only use half an onion for another recipe, chop the rest and freeze it. You can toss frozen onion directly into soups and sautés without thawing. It’s a brilliant time and money saver.
Nutrition Notes
While I’m not a dietitian, I like to have a general idea of what I’m feeding my family. This soup is quite balanced.
- High in protein from the chicken and beans.
- Provides a good source of fiber.
- Contains essential vitamins from the tomatoes and corn.
- To lighten it up, you can use a lower-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
If you’re looking for more healthy protein-packed options, you’ll love our delicious Spinach Turkey Meatballs.
Common Questions About This Recipe
I get a lot of questions about this recipe. Here are the answers to the most frequent ones.
Can I make this in a crockpot?
Absolutely! For a crockpot taco soup, just add all ingredients except the cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Stir in the cream at the very end.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half is a great substitute. For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk works wonderfully and adds a subtle, delicious flavor.
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Of course. This recipe is very adaptable. You can use ground beef recipes as inspiration—just brown the beef in the first step before adding the seasoning. It’s just as tasty.
I hope this recipe becomes a trusted, money-saving favorite in your home like it is in mine. It’s the perfect solution for a hectic evening when you need something satisfying and fast, especially when paired with some fluffy Keto Rolls.
I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Let me know your own money-saving tips for this recipe in the comments below! Please leave a rating!
