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High Protein Creamy Taco Soup - Cozy, Satisfying, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken (93% lean or leaner)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (about 2–3 tablespoons), or homemade
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra depth)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (mild or hot)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup light cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Toppings (optional): shredded cheese, sliced jalapeño, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, extra Greek yogurt

Method
 

  1. Warm the pot. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the diced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Brown the meat. Add the ground turkey or chicken. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Season well. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir to coat the meat and onions. Let the spices toast for 30–60 seconds—this boosts flavor.
  4. Add the base. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, black beans, and corn. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Make it creamy. Lower the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese cubes until fully melted and smooth. Remove the pot from heat and whisk in the Greek yogurt until the soup turns silky. Do not boil after adding yogurt.
  7. Finish and serve. Stir in the lime juice and a handful of chopped cilantro if using. Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Serve hot.