7-Can Chicken Taco Soup is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights. This soup is made with just seven cans of ingredients and can be ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a great way to use up pantry staples and create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
To make 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup, all you need is a can of diced tomatoes, a can of corn, a can of black beans, a can of kidney beans, a can of chicken broth, a can of diced green chilies, and a can of chicken. Simply dump all of the ingredients into a pot, bring to a boil, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes. The result is a flavorful and hearty soup that can be topped with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.
This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly and can easily be customized to suit individual tastes. It’s a great option for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade meal. In the following article, we will dive deeper into the ingredients and steps required to make this tasty soup.
Recipe Overview
Ingredients
Preparation Time
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights as it requires only a few minutes of preparation time. It takes about 5 minutes to open the cans and drain the liquid from the beans and corn.
Cooking Time
The cooking time for this recipe is also minimal. It takes about 20 minutes to cook the soup on the stove.
Serving Size
This recipe makes approximately 4-6 servings. It is perfect for a family dinner or for meal prep for the week.
Overall, the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup is a delicious and easy recipe that requires minimal effort and time. It is perfect for those who want a quick and satisfying meal without sacrificing taste.
Nutritional Information
The 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. It is important to be aware of the nutritional information when consuming this soup, especially for those who are watching their calorie intake or have specific dietary restrictions.
One serving of the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup (approximately 1 cup) contains approximately 220 calories, 8 grams of fat, 26 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of protein. It also contains 580 milligrams of sodium, which is about 25% of the recommended daily intake.
The soup is a good source of fiber, with 5 grams per serving, and it also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. However, it is important to note that the soup does contain some saturated fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Overall, the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup is a tasty and nutritious meal option that can be enjoyed by many. By being mindful of the nutritional information and portion sizes, individuals can incorporate this soup into their diet without compromising their health goals.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ingredient Preparation
Before starting to cook the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned chicken breast | 2 cans |
| Canned corn | 1 can |
| Canned black beans | 1 can |
| Canned kidney beans | 1 can |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 2 cans |
| Canned green chilies | 1 can |
| Taco seasoning mix | 1 packet |
| Chicken broth | 1 can |
Once you have all the ingredients, drain and rinse the canned corn, black beans, and kidney beans. Drain the canned chicken breast and set it aside. Open all the cans of diced tomatoes and green chilies, but do not drain them.
Cooking Process
To start cooking the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup, follow these steps:
- In a large pot, combine all the canned ingredients, including the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies.
- Add the taco seasoning mix to the pot and stir well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir again.
- Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, shred the canned chicken breast using two forks.
- After the soup has simmered for 15-20 minutes, add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
- Let the soup cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the chicken to heat through.
- Serve the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily make a delicious and hearty 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Variations and Substitutes
Dietary Adjustments
For those who are looking to make this recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple adjustments that can be made. To reduce the calorie count, consider using a lower-fat cream cheese or omitting it altogether. For a lower-carb version, substitute the canned black beans for black soybeans or omit them entirely. Additionally, using a low-sodium chicken broth and reducing the amount of salt added can help make this recipe more heart-healthy.
Alternative Ingredients
While this recipe calls for specific ingredients, there are a few alternatives that can be used if needed. For the chicken, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken instead of canned chicken. If you don’t have canned corn, you can use frozen or fresh corn instead. If you don’t have canned black beans, you can use kidney beans or pinto beans. For the taco seasoning, consider making your own blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Finally, if you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
By making these simple adjustments and substitutions, you can customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs and preferences, while still enjoying a delicious and hearty meal.
Equipment Needed
Preparing 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup requires a few essential kitchen tools and equipment. Here are the items you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: A large pot or Dutch oven is necessary to cook the soup. It should be big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
- Can opener: You’ll need a can opener to open the cans of soup, beans, and corn.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup as it cooks. It won’t scratch the pot or damage the non-stick coating.
- Cutting board and knife: You’ll need a cutting board and knife to chop the onion and garlic.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Bowls and spoons: You’ll need bowls and spoons to serve the soup.
- Optional toppings: You can add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips to enhance the flavor of the soup.
Having all the necessary equipment ready before starting the cooking process will make the preparation easier and more efficient. With these tools, you’ll be able to make the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup with ease.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
To store the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup, transfer the soup to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. The soup will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before refrigerating it.
Freezing
The 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup can also be frozen for later use. Transfer the soup to an airtight freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup, remove it from the refrigerator or freezer and transfer it to a pot. Heat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. Alternatively, the soup can be reheated in the microwave. Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe container and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature.
It is important to note that the soup may thicken after being refrigerated or frozen. If this occurs, add a small amount of water or chicken broth to the soup to thin it out. Additionally, the soup may lose some of its flavor after being stored. To enhance the flavor, add some additional spices or toppings such as shredded cheese or sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishes
To add more flavor and texture to the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup, consider garnishing it with some toppings. Some popular options include shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapenos. These garnishes not only enhance the taste but also add a pop of color to the dish.
For a more filling meal, consider adding some tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips on top of the soup. This will give the soup a crunchy texture and make it more satisfying.
Side Dishes
While the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup can be enjoyed on its own, it can also be served with some side dishes to make it a more complete meal. Some great options for side dishes include:
- Cornbread: This classic Southern side dish pairs well with the spicy flavors of the soup.
- Rice: A serving of rice can help balance out the spiciness of the soup and make it more filling.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy soup.
Overall, the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. With the right garnishes and side dishes, it can make for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Tips and Tricks
To make the 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup even more delicious, here are a few tips and tricks:
- Add fresh ingredients: While the canned ingredients are the base of the soup, adding fresh ingredients can take it to the next level. Try adding diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, or diced avocado to give the soup a burst of flavor and texture.
- Adjust the seasoning: The soup can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. For those who like it spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper. For those who prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of seasoning.
- Use a slow cooker: The soup can be easily made in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
- Serve with toppings: Adding toppings to the soup can make it even more satisfying. Try adding shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips for a little extra crunch.
- Double the recipe: This soup freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.
By following these simple tips and tricks, anyone can make a delicious and satisfying 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential ingredients for making a classic 7-can chicken taco soup?
The essential ingredients for making a classic 7-can chicken taco soup are canned chicken, canned black beans, canned corn, canned diced tomatoes, canned green chilies, canned chicken broth, and taco seasoning mix.
How can you modify 7-can chicken taco soup to include ground beef?
To modify 7-can chicken taco soup to include ground beef, simply brown the ground beef in a skillet and add it to the soup along with the other ingredients.
What steps are involved in preparing 7-can chicken taco soup in a slow cooker?
To prepare 7-can chicken taco soup in a slow cooker, simply combine all of the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How can ranch dressing mix be incorporated into a 7-can chicken taco soup recipe?
Ranch dressing mix can be incorporated into a 7-can chicken taco soup recipe by adding it to the soup along with the taco seasoning mix. This will give the soup a tangy, creamy flavor.
What are some creative ways to enhance the flavor of canned chicken soup?
Some creative ways to enhance the flavor of canned chicken soup include adding spices such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika, adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, or adding a splash of lime juice.
How does Chick-fil-A’s tortilla soup compare to homemade 7-can chicken taco soup?
Chick-fil-A’s tortilla soup is a creamy, tomato-based soup that features shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. While it is similar to homemade 7-can chicken taco soup in terms of ingredients, it has a slightly different flavor profile and texture. Ultimately, the choice between the two soups comes down to personal preference.