Chicken Taco Soup Instant Pot Recipe

Chicken Taco Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that has become a fan favorite, especially for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, quick, and easy to make. It’s one of those meals that is both satisfying and customizable, making it perfect for all sorts of tastes and preferences. The beauty of making Chicken Taco Soup in an Instant Pot is that you can have all the flavors you love in a fraction of the time it would take to cook traditionally on the stove.

What makes this recipe stand out is its ability to blend the rich and savory notes of seasoned chicken with a medley of vegetables, beans, and corn, all cooked together in a savory broth. The spices elevate the dish, creating a depth of flavor that’s nothing short of satisfying. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter day or as a casual family dinner, this soup is sure to hit the spot. And, the Instant Pot makes it so easy-what’s not to love?

Chicken Taco Soup Instant Pot Recipe

This Chicken Taco Soup recipe is perfect for anyone who’s looking for a delicious, stress-free meal. The Instant Pot cuts down the cooking time dramatically while still allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a richer flavor)
• Canned diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz)
• Corn: 1 can (15 oz) of whole kernel corn, drained
• Black beans: 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
• Chicken broth: 4 cups (you can use low-sodium for a lighter version)
• Taco seasoning: 1 packet (or homemade, see below)
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Bell peppers: 1-2, diced (red or green, based on preference)
• Chili powder: 1 tbsp
• Ground cumin: 1 tsp
• Lime: Juice of 1 lime for that fresh zing
• Cilantro: Fresh, chopped for garnish
• Sour cream: For serving
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Mexican blend, for garnish
• Tortilla chips: Optional, but perfect for crunch!

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep The Ingredients

   • Dice the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Drain and rinse the black beans and corn.
   • If you’re using chicken breasts, feel free to cut them into chunks to reduce cooking time and ensure they cook evenly.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • Turn the Instant Pot on to the ’Sauté’ mode. Add a little oil (olive oil works well) and toss in the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
   • Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add The Rest Of The Ingredients

   • Dump in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Add the taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin, stirring well to combine.
   • Place the chicken breasts on top of the soup mixture (no need to stir it in at this point).

4. Pressure Cook

   • Close the Instant Pot lid and make sure the vent is set to “Sealing”. Select the ’Pressure Cook’ or ’Manual’ button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

5. Release The Pressure

   • Once the cooking time is done, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

6. Shred The Chicken

   • Open the Instant Pot and carefully remove the chicken breasts. Use two forks to shred the chicken.
   • Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir everything together.

7. Finish And Serve

   • Squeeze the juice of one lime into the soup and stir.
   • Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and tortilla chips for that added crunch.

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken: The chicken breasts (or thighs) absorb the flavors of the broth and seasonings as they cook, making them tender and easy to shred. Chicken thighs, in particular, offer a richer, juicier texture, so if you prefer that, swap out the breasts.
• Taco Seasoning: Pre-made taco seasoning is convenient and flavorful, but homemade is always an option. A simple blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of paprika can elevate this dish with a personalized touch.
• Black Beans & Corn: These ingredients not only add bulk to the soup but also provide that essential sweetness (corn) and creamy texture (black beans). They balance the spice and add nutritional value.
• Lime & Cilantro: Fresh lime juice and cilantro add a brightness to the soup that really cuts through the richness, bringing everything together beautifully.

Expert Tips

• Layer the Flavors: If you want to take your Chicken Taco Soup up a notch, try toasting your spices in the Instant Pot before adding the liquids. Simply sauté the taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder for a minute or two before adding the other ingredients. This enhances the spices’ flavors.
• Shred the Chicken After Cooking: For the best texture, always shred the chicken after cooking. It will retain its moisture and break apart more easily, giving you that perfect, pull-apart bite.
• Thicken Your Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash a portion of the beans with a potato masher before returning the chicken to the soup. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra beans (kidney, pinto, or even black-eyed peas) or toss in some extra veggies like zucchini or carrots for texture and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add some diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like corn kernels, carrots, or even sweet potatoes for added sweetness and fiber.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in some cream cheese or heavy cream towards the end of cooking for that luscious, rich texture.

Final Words

Chicken Taco Soup is not just a soup; it’s a full meal packed with protein, fiber, and a ton of flavors. It’s also incredibly versatile, and with the Instant Pot, it becomes a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. You can throw it together in no time and have it ready to serve in under an hour. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for the perfect next-day lunch or dinner.

The combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, sweet corn, and zesty seasonings will keep your taste buds satisfied, while the quick cooking time makes this a no-brainer for busy days. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a party, Chicken Taco Soup is always a winner.