🥫 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup: The Ultimate Dump-and-Stir Meal
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting bowl of soup but don’t want the hassle of chopping, sautéing, or simmering for hours, then you’re going to love this 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup. As the name suggests, you need just seven cans, a few spices, and minimal prep. It’s one of those “dump and go” recipes that feels almost too easy — but it never disappoints.
This soup is ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, or any time you want something warm and satisfying without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it with chips, top it with cheese and sour cream, or even spoon it over rice or baked potatoes.
Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to this cult-favorite soup — including step-by-step directions, variations, tips, storage, and more.
🧂 Why You’ll Love 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup
-
✅ Ridiculously easy – just open, dump, and heat
-
✅ No chopping, no prep, no fuss
-
✅ Budget-friendly and pantry staple-based
-
✅ Packed with flavor and nutrition
-
✅ Customizable to your tastes or dietary needs
-
✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
🥫 What Are the 7 Cans?
The basic 7-can chicken taco soup uses the following canned ingredients:
-
Canned chicken (or rotisserie chicken if preferred)
-
Canned corn
-
Canned black beans
-
Canned pinto beans
-
Canned diced tomatoes
-
Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
-
Canned condensed tomato soup
BONUS: While it's called “7-Can” soup, some variations include taco seasoning and chicken broth, which aren’t counted as part of the seven but are essential for deep flavor.
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for the classic version (serves 6–8):
The 7 Cans:
-
1 can (12.5 oz) chunk chicken, drained (or 1½ cups shredded cooked chicken)
-
1 can (15 oz) corn, undrained
-
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
-
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
-
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
Additional Ingredients:
-
1–2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water (optional, for thinner consistency)
-
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade, see below)
-
½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for more depth)
-
Salt and pepper to taste
🌶 Optional Toppings
-
Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
-
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
-
Sliced avocado or guacamole
-
Crushed tortilla chips or strips
-
Jalapeño slices
-
Fresh cilantro
-
Lime wedges
🍲 How to Make 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup
Step 1: Open and Drain
-
Drain and rinse both the black beans and pinto beans to remove excess sodium and brine.
-
Drain the canned chicken (or use shredded cooked chicken for a fresher texture).
🔄 Tip: Want a chunkier soup? Slightly mash some of the beans with a fork before adding for a thicker base.
Step 2: Dump Into Pot
-
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, combine:
-
Chicken
-
Corn (with liquid)
-
Black beans
-
Pinto beans
-
Diced tomatoes (both regular and Rotel)
-
Tomato soup
-
Taco seasoning
-
Optional: chicken broth or water to reach desired consistency
-
🥄 Pro Tip: Mix the taco seasoning with a little broth before stirring in to help it dissolve evenly.
Step 3: Heat and Simmer
-
Stir everything together until well mixed.
-
Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
-
Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning (add more taco seasoning, cumin, salt, or pepper as needed).
🍲 The soup is ready when it’s hot throughout and flavors have melded. There’s no “wrong” cooking time since all ingredients are pre-cooked.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
-
Ladle hot soup into bowls.
-
Add your favorite toppings: cheese, sour cream, avocado, crushed chips, and a squeeze of lime.
🧀 Serving Suggestions
-
With cornbread or cheesy biscuits
-
As a taco bar: serve with tortillas for dipping or spooning
-
Over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal
-
As a topping over baked potatoes or nachos
🔁 Variations and Add-Ins
🥑 Want it healthier?
-
Use low-sodium canned ingredients.
-
Replace condensed soup with tomato puree or crushed tomatoes.
-
Add chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies.
🌱 Vegetarian version:
-
Omit chicken and add another can of beans (e.g., kidney or chickpeas).
-
Use vegetable broth.
🥵 Want more heat?
-
Add a second can of Rotel or extra diced jalapeños.
-
Stir in chipotle peppers in adobo or a dash of hot sauce.
🧀 Creamy version:
-
Stir in 4 oz of cream cheese or ½ cup sour cream at the end for a creamy twist.
🧂 Homemade Taco Seasoning (1 Packet Equivalent)
Mix the following:
-
1 tablespoon chili powder
-
½ teaspoon garlic powder
-
½ teaspoon onion powder
-
½ teaspoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1½ teaspoons ground cumin
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
🧂 Making your own lets you control sodium and spice levels.
❄️ Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
-
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
-
Reheat on stovetop over medium heat or in microwave (covered).
Freezer:
-
Let soup cool completely before freezing.
-
Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
-
Freeze for up to 3 months.
-
Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat gently.
🧊 This soup is great for meal prep. Make a double batch and freeze half!
🧾 Nutrition Info (Per 1½ cup serving, without toppings – approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280–350 |
| Protein | 18–24g |
| Carbs | 30–35g |
| Fat | 7–10g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 750–950mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
Values vary depending on brands and toppings.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips for Best Results
-
Drain and rinse beans for better texture and less salt.
-
Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and juicier meat.
-
Simmer longer for deeper flavor, though it’s delicious even after 15 minutes.
-
Customize the heat by adding more chilies or using hot taco seasoning.
💬 FAQs
Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Dump all ingredients into the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. It helps meld flavors even more.
Can I use fresh chicken?
Yes! Dice and sauté 1 lb of raw chicken breast or thighs, season with taco seasoning, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer.
Is this soup spicy?
Not overly. The Rotel adds a mild kick, but it’s family-friendly. Adjust heat to taste with jalapeños or hot sauce.
What if I don’t have tomato soup?
Sub with:
-
1 cup tomato puree
-
½ cup tomato sauce
-
Or omit and increase broth for a brothier soup
🏡 A Pantry Classic That’s Always a Win
The beauty of 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup is its simplicity. It’s proof that with a few pantry staples and a can opener, you can whip up something deeply satisfying, warm, and wholesome. Whether you’re short on time, low on fresh ingredients, or just craving something cozy, this soup is your go-to.
It’s also endlessly flexible. You can make it your own every time — switch up the beans, add veggies, spice it up, or make it creamy. The core of the dish remains the same: dump, stir, heat, and eat. It’s comfort food at its easiest.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This 7-can soup is the perfect example of minimal effort, maximum reward. With a can opener and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a pot full of nourishing soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Serve it up with your favorite toppings, a slice of cornbread, and prepare for everyone to ask for seconds.
Simple. Delicious. Reliable. That’s what great recipes are made of.
🥫 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup: The Ultimate Dump-and-Stir Meal
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting bowl of soup but don’t want the hassle of chopping, sautéing, or simmering for hours, then you’re going to love this 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup. As the name suggests, you need just seven cans, a few spices, and minimal prep. It’s one of those “dump and go” recipes that feels almost too easy — but it never disappoints.
This soup is ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, or any time you want something warm and satisfying without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it with chips, top it with cheese and sour cream, or even spoon it over rice or baked potatoes.
Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to this cult-favorite soup — including step-by-step directions, variations, tips, storage, and more.
🧂 Why You’ll Love 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup
-
✅ Ridiculously easy – just open, dump, and heat
-
✅ No chopping, no prep, no fuss
-
✅ Budget-friendly and pantry staple-based
-
✅ Packed with flavor and nutrition
-
✅ Customizable to your tastes or dietary needs
-
✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
🥫 What Are the 7 Cans?
The basic 7-can chicken taco soup uses the following canned ingredients:
-
Canned chicken (or rotisserie chicken if preferred)
-
Canned corn
-
Canned black beans
-
Canned pinto beans
-
Canned diced tomatoes
-
Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
-
Canned condensed tomato soup
BONUS: While it's called “7-Can” soup, some variations include taco seasoning and chicken broth, which aren’t counted as part of the seven but are essential for deep flavor.
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for the classic version (serves 6–8):
The 7 Cans:
-
1 can (12.5 oz) chunk chicken, drained (or 1½ cups shredded cooked chicken)
-
1 can (15 oz) corn, undrained
-
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
-
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
-
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
-
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
Additional Ingredients:
-
1–2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water (optional, for thinner consistency)
-
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade, see below)
-
½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for more depth)
-
Salt and pepper to taste
🌶 Optional Toppings
-
Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
-
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
-
Sliced avocado or guacamole
-
Crushed tortilla chips or strips
-
Jalapeño slices
-
Fresh cilantro
-
Lime wedges
🍲 How to Make 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup
Step 1: Open and Drain
-
Drain and rinse both the black beans and pinto beans to remove excess sodium and brine.
-
Drain the canned chicken (or use shredded cooked chicken for a fresher texture).
🔄 Tip: Want a chunkier soup? Slightly mash some of the beans with a fork before adding for a thicker base.
Step 2: Dump Into Pot
-
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, combine:
-
Chicken
-
Corn (with liquid)
-
Black beans
-
Pinto beans
-
Diced tomatoes (both regular and Rotel)
-
Tomato soup
-
Taco seasoning
-
Optional: chicken broth or water to reach desired consistency
-
🥄 Pro Tip: Mix the taco seasoning with a little broth before stirring in to help it dissolve evenly.
Step 3: Heat and Simmer
-
Stir everything together until well mixed.
-
Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
-
Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning (add more taco seasoning, cumin, salt, or pepper as needed).
🍲 The soup is ready when it’s hot throughout and flavors have melded. There’s no “wrong” cooking time since all ingredients are pre-cooked.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
-
Ladle hot soup into bowls.
-
Add your favorite toppings: cheese, sour cream, avocado, crushed chips, and a squeeze of lime.
🧀 Serving Suggestions
-
With cornbread or cheesy biscuits
-
As a taco bar: serve with tortillas for dipping or spooning
-
Over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal
-
As a topping over baked potatoes or nachos
🔁 Variations and Add-Ins
🥑 Want it healthier?
-
Use low-sodium canned ingredients.
-
Replace condensed soup with tomato puree or crushed tomatoes.
-
Add chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies.
🌱 Vegetarian version:
-
Omit chicken and add another can of beans (e.g., kidney or chickpeas).
-
Use vegetable broth.
🥵 Want more heat?
-
Add a second can of Rotel or extra diced jalapeños.
-
Stir in chipotle peppers in adobo or a dash of hot sauce.
🧀 Creamy version:
-
Stir in 4 oz of cream cheese or ½ cup sour cream at the end for a creamy twist.
🧂 Homemade Taco Seasoning (1 Packet Equivalent)
Mix the following:
-
1 tablespoon chili powder
-
½ teaspoon garlic powder
-
½ teaspoon onion powder
-
½ teaspoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1½ teaspoons ground cumin
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
🧂 Making your own lets you control sodium and spice levels.
❄️ Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
-
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
-
Reheat on stovetop over medium heat or in microwave (covered).
Freezer:
-
Let soup cool completely before freezing.
-
Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
-
Freeze for up to 3 months.
-
Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat gently.
🧊 This soup is great for meal prep. Make a double batch and freeze half!
🧾 Nutrition Info (Per 1½ cup serving, without toppings – approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280–350 |
| Protein | 18–24g |
| Carbs | 30–35g |
| Fat | 7–10g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 750–950mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
Values vary depending on brands and toppings.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips for Best Results
-
Drain and rinse beans for better texture and less salt.
-
Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and juicier meat.
-
Simmer longer for deeper flavor, though it’s delicious even after 15 minutes.
-
Customize the heat by adding more chilies or using hot taco seasoning.
💬 FAQs
Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Dump all ingredients into the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. It helps meld flavors even more.
Can I use fresh chicken?
Yes! Dice and sauté 1 lb of raw chicken breast or thighs, season with taco seasoning, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer.
Is this soup spicy?
Not overly. The Rotel adds a mild kick, but it’s family-friendly. Adjust heat to taste with jalapeños or hot sauce.
What if I don’t have tomato soup?
Sub with:
-
1 cup tomato puree
-
½ cup tomato sauce
-
Or omit and increase broth for a brothier soup
🏡 A Pantry Classic That’s Always a Win
The beauty of 7-Can Chicken Taco Soup is its simplicity. It’s proof that with a few pantry staples and a can opener, you can whip up something deeply satisfying, warm, and wholesome. Whether you’re short on time, low on fresh ingredients, or just craving something cozy, this soup is your go-to.
It’s also endlessly flexible. You can make it your own every time — switch up the beans, add veggies, spice it up, or make it creamy. The core of the dish remains the same: dump, stir, heat, and eat. It’s comfort food at its easiest.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This 7-can soup is the perfect example of minimal effort, maximum reward. With a can opener and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a pot full of nourishing soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Serve it up with your favorite toppings, a slice of cornbread, and prepare for everyone to ask for seconds.
Simple. Delicious. Reliable. That’s what great recipes are made of.
0 comments:
Post a Comment