What is the difference between chicken tortilla soup and chicken taco soup?

The main difference lies in the texture and flavor base. Chicken taco soup is thicker, heartier, and loaded with beans, corn, and shredded chicken—almost like a chili with taco seasoning. It has a smoky, bold taste that feels rich and satisfying. Chicken tortilla soup , on the other hand, has a lighter broth base and focuses more on tomato and lime flavors. It’s usually topped with crispy tortilla strips and avocado. While both are comforting, the chicken taco soup recipe offers a more filling, meal-style bowl perfect for family dinners or cold nights.

What ingredients go into taco soup?

A traditional chicken taco soup recipe includes simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The essentials are: Shredded cooked chicken Black beans Corn Diced tomatoes with green chilies Chicken broth Taco seasoning mix Onion and garlic for depth Fresh lime juice and cilantro for brightness These ingredients come together to form a thick, flavorful broth with a balance of smoky spice and citrusy freshness. You can always add your own twist—cream cheese for creaminess, jalapeños for spice, or avocado for richness.

What goes with chicken taco soup?

The best part of this chicken taco soup recipe is how well it pairs with other dishes. You can serve it alongside: Warm cornbread or cheesy quesadillas for a comforting duo. Mexican rice or cilantro-lime quinoa for extra substance. A crisp salad with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing balance. For toppings, try sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. Each adds color, texture, and flavor that make your bowl irresistible.

What makes chicken tortilla soup creamy?

Creaminess in chicken tortilla soup usually comes from one or more of these additions: Cream cheese or heavy cream for a smooth, velvety texture. Blended beans added back into the soup to thicken naturally. Avocado pureed or mashed directly into the broth for a rich, dairy-free alternative. If you want to bring that creamy touch to your chicken taco soup recipe , stir in cream cheese at the end or swirl in a spoonful of sour cream right before serving. Pair your bowl with my creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe for the ultimate comfort combo.

Chicken Taco Soup Recipe – 5-Step Ultimate Comfort Bowl (Delicious & Easy)

Name: Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup sweet corn; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A warm, comforting chicken taco soup recipe made with shredded chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and smoky taco seasoning. This easy one-pot meal brings bold Mexican-inspired flavors together in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups shredded cooked chicken

4 cups chicken broth

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup sweet corn

2 tbsp taco seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp fresh lime juice

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla strips, avocado, jalapeños

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

2. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Mix until evenly coated with spices.

3. Pour in chicken broth, stir, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.

4. Add lime juice and cilantro, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado, or tortilla chips.

Notes

For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup cream cheese or heavy cream at the end.

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

Reheat gently and add a splash of broth to restore consistency.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup, Dinner, Mexican-Inspired
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 65mg