High Protein Chicken Taco Soup

Featured in: Smart Weeknight Meals

This hearty chicken soup combines lean diced chicken, black and kidney beans, and a colorful mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. Flavored with bold spices including smoked paprika and taco seasoning, it simmers in a savory broth to meld flavors perfectly. Fresh garnishes like cilantro, avocado, lime, and cheese or yogurt add bright, creamy notes. Easy to prepare in under an hour, this dish offers a nourishing and protein-rich meal with a vibrant twist.

Updated on Sat, 14 Feb 2026 06:06:51 GMT
A steaming bowl of high-protein chicken taco soup with vibrant veggie confetti and fresh cilantro garnish.  Pin it
A steaming bowl of high-protein chicken taco soup with vibrant veggie confetti and fresh cilantro garnish. | smartyskitchen.com

High-Protein Chicken Taco Soup with Veggie Confetti is a vibrant, hearty soup that brings bold Mexican-inspired flavors to your table. Packed with lean chicken and a colorful array of beans and vegetables, it offers a healthy, protein-rich twist on a classic comfort dish that is perfect for any day of the week.

A steaming bowl of high-protein chicken taco soup with vibrant veggie confetti and fresh cilantro garnish.  Pin it
A steaming bowl of high-protein chicken taco soup with vibrant veggie confetti and fresh cilantro garnish. | smartyskitchen.com

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The combination of black and kidney beans provides a double dose of plant-based protein and fiber, while the smoked paprika and taco seasoning create a rich, aromatic base. The addition of fresh zucchini and peppers ensures a nutritious and crunchy texture in every bite.

Ingredients

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  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g), diced
  • 1 can (400 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (400 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup (150 g) corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium red onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, shredded cheese or Greek yogurt (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Step 2
Add chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.
Step 3
Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, and jalapeño; cook for another 3 minutes.
Step 4
Add taco seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper; stir to coat the chicken and vegetables.
Step 5
Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Mix well.
Step 6
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Step 7
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 8
Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, and cheese or Greek yogurt if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For even more flavor and juiciness, you can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs. You can also easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less of the jalapeño depending on your heat tolerance.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version of this meal, simply omit the chicken and add an extra can of beans or some diced firm tofu. This ensures the soup remains a high-protein option while being entirely plant-based.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and lime wedges for a bright finish. It pairs perfectly with warm corn tortillas or crunchy tortilla chips. Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt provides a delicious creamy element.

Hearty chicken taco soup packed with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and beans for a protein-rich, healthy meal.  Pin it
Hearty chicken taco soup packed with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and beans for a protein-rich, healthy meal. | smartyskitchen.com

With 340 calories and 34g of protein per serving, this High-Protein Chicken Taco Soup with Veggie Confetti is an excellent choice for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Enjoy the bold flavors and vibrant textures of this easy-to-make soup any night of the week.

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Chop vegetables, slice meats, and prep ingredients easily for everyday cooking and homemade recipes.
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Recipe Questions & Answers

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and juicier texture in the soup.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu to maintain the protein content and heartiness.

What is the best way to adjust the spice level?

Adjust the amount of jalapeño or spice seasoning to suit your heat preference. You can also omit jalapeño for a milder flavor.

Can this soup be made gluten-free?

Yes, ensure the taco seasoning is certified gluten-free and avoid any added ingredients containing gluten.

What garnishes complement this soup?

Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese or Greek yogurt add flavor and texture.

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High Protein Chicken Taco Soup

Protein-rich chicken soup with colorful vegetables, beans, and bold seasoning for a hearty, healthy meal.

Prep Time
15 min
Time to Cook
30 min
Overall Time
45 min
Created by Emily Scott


Skill Level Easy

Culinary Roots Mexican-Inspired

Makes 6 Portions

Diet Details No Gluten

What You'll Need

Proteins

01 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.1 lbs), diced
02 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
03 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

01 1 red bell pepper, diced
02 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
03 1 zucchini, diced
04 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
05 1 medium red onion, diced
06 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
08 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)

Liquids

01 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
02 1 tablespoon olive oil

Spices & Seasonings

01 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
02 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Garnishes

01 Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
02 Avocado slices (optional)
03 Lime wedges (optional)
04 Shredded cheese or Greek yogurt (optional)

Directions

Step 01

Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

Step 02

Cook chicken: Add chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 03

Add vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, and jalapeño; cook for another 3 minutes.

Step 04

Season the mixture: Add taco seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper; stir to coat the chicken and vegetables.

Step 05

Build the soup: Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Mix well.

Step 06

Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 07

Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 08

Serve: Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, and cheese or Greek yogurt if desired.

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Tools You'll Need

  • Large soup pot
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Allergy Info

Review each item for allergens and reach out to a healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains dairy if cheese or yogurt is used as a garnish
  • Contains legumes (beans); not suitable for those with legume allergies

Nutrition Info (per portion)

Info for reference only. Always check with your doctor for health guidance.
  • Energy (Calories): 340
  • Fats: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Proteins: 34 g

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