Quick Homemade Taco Seasoning (mix together):
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Two forks or hand mixer for shredding chicken
- Ladle
- (Optional) Slow cooker for a hands-off approach
Step-by-Step Instructions
My process always starts with building a flavorful base. In my trusty Dutch oven, I heat the oil over medium heat. I add the diced onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes, until it turns soft and translucent. This simple step is where so much flavor begins—it sweetens the onion and creates a foundation for the spices. Next, I add the chicken breasts directly to the pot. I season them generously with salt and pepper, then I sprinkle the taco seasoning all over the top of the chicken and onions. I let the spices toast for just 30 seconds with the chicken, which wakes up their oils and makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.
Now, for the easy dump-and-stir part that makes this soup so magical. I pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chiles (juice and all), the tomato sauce, the rinsed black beans and kidney beans, and the corn. I stir everything around the chicken so the chicken is mostly submerged. Then, I carefully pour in the chicken broth. I bring the whole pot to a lively boil over high heat. Once it’s bubbling vigorously, I reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer gently.
This is the hands-off magic time. I let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes. The goal is to cook the chicken through until it’s tender and easily shreddable. About halfway through, I’ll give it a gentle stir. I check the chicken by pulling a piece out and trying to shred it with two forks. If it falls apart easily, it’s ready. If it still resists, I give it another 5-10 minutes. I’ve learned that rushing this step means tough chicken, so patience is key. (See the next page below to continue…)