Pumpkin Soup Recipe

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This homemade pumpkin soup recipe is perfect for taking the chill off a cold day! Warm up with a bowl of this creamy soup, made with easy ingredients. Use canned puree or roast a sugar pumpkin for garden fresh flavor.

Smoke Sausage & Cabbage: One Pan Comfort!

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This cabbage and sausage recipe is a hearty skillet dish full of smoky flavor and tender veggies. Smoked sausage is browned until golden and then tossed with cabbage, onion, garlic, and seasonings for a simple but delicious dinner.

Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

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The most flavorful boneless, skinless chicken thighs rubbed with a simple seasoning blend, then bathed in a lemon garlic butter sauce!

The post Crockpot Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs appeared first on The Stay At Home Chef.

Last Minute Chicken

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How cool is it that this quick chicken recipe is the easiest chicken we make, and it is also some of the tastiest chicken we make? Seasoned with plenty of terrific flavors and quickly cooked in any number of ways, this chicken is the weeknight main dish that the whole family enjoys.

Last Minute Chicken

The Fastest Way to Cook Chicken

You only need a few minutes to get this chicken ready to cook and you’ll be sitting down to eat just ten minutes later. The chicken is great on its own with a side of raw vegetables and ranch dip. It can also be sliced thin for sandwiches, or chopped bite-size for soups, salads, or pasta.

I’ve been making this chicken probably every other week for over 5 years now. And yes, it’s taken that long for me to share it here on the website.

The recipe is another favorite from The Weeknight Dinner Cookbook. However, I use the chicken in so many other recipes, I decided it was past time to share the original here.

Easiest and tastiest chicken you'll ever make!

Why make this chicken?

It tastes fantastic. The whole family devours it every time I make it. This is the fastest possible way to cook chicken. It can be prepped in under 5 minutes and cooked in under 10. I could go on and on about how delicious and EASY this chicken is.

My preference and go-to cooking method for this chicken is my grill pan on the stove. When I’m in a rush, the oven method is a little faster, simply because you can cook all the pieces at once. This chicken can also be cooked in a skillet on the stove or on an outdoor grill.

Quick Chicken Recipes

To make a batch of last minute chicken, combine the garlic, onion, paprika, oregano, pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle half the spices over the chicken. Turn the chicken pieces over and sprinkle the remaining spices over the chicken. Rub spices into the chicken, as needed, to coat well.

This recipe can be made with chicken breasts as well. Simply watch the cooking time and adjust as needed. Chicken breasts will cook faster than thighs, depending on their thickness.

I honestly don’t think you can have too many quick chicken recipes. Indian Chicken Bites was the first recipe I made using this method and in the years since, I’ve made Southwest Chicken Bits, and Sauteed Spiced Zucchini with Chicken Bits too. There are endless ways to switch things up when making chicken bites.

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken with juicy meat and crisp, flavorful skin can be on your dinner table with about 5 minutes’ worth of effort! This crispy chicken is made in the oven without any breading at all; the only ingredients you need are the chicken, a drizzle of oil, salt, and pepper. And this Crispy Italian Chicken has a crispy skin and juicy interior that makes it one of my all-time favorite chicken recipes.

chicken on grill pan

How To Cook Chicken On A Grill Pan

My preference and go-to cooking method for this chicken is my grill pan on the stove. When I’m in a rush, the oven method is a little faster, simply because you can cook all the pieces at once. This chicken can also be cooked in a skillet on the stove or on an outdoor grill.

Heat a nonstick grill pan over medium heat. Place half the chicken in the grill pan, making sure there is a gap between the pieces. Cook the chicken without touching it for 5 minutes.

Flip over and cook an additional 3-5 minutes until cooked through. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thin.

Prefer to cook your chicken on the outdoor grill? You can find out How To Grill Chicken Thighs here too.

grill pan with chicken on it

How To Broil Chicken Thighs

Preheat the oven to broil. Arrange an oven rack 6 inches from the top of the oven. Place a wire rack over a large baking tray. Arrange the chicken on the wire rack.

Place the chicken in the oven and broil for 6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oven, turn each piece of chicken over, and then broil an additional 5-6 minutes. Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thin.

Broiled Chicken Thighs have been a staple in my meal planning for about as long as I can remember. Learning how to broil chicken makes it easy to get a delicious dinner on the table fast.

Juicy, flavorful chicken thighs, in just minutes!

What to Serve with this Chicken

We like to serve this chicken with Roasted Fingerlings. (That aioli makes an awesome dipping sauce for the chicken too!) It’s also great with Chipotle Lime Rice, Ramen Noodle Salad, and this Dill Pickle Potato Salad.

Try the chicken over this creamy Fettuccine Alfredo and pair it with a Strawberry Spinach Salad for a restaurant-worthy meal on your next date night at home.

Juicy, flavorful chicken thighs, in just minutes!

Print

Last Minute Chicken

Juicy chicken that is loaded with great flavor can be on your table in under 10 minutes!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes minutes
Total Time 15 minutes minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 167kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tsps granulated garlic or garlic powder
  • tsps granulated onion or onion powder
  • 2 tsps paprika or smoked paprika
  • 2 tsps dried oregano
  • tsps freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 tbsps fresh cilantro chopped (optional)

Instructions

  • Combine the garlic, onion, paprika, oregano, pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle half the spices over the chicken. Turn the chicken pieces over and sprinkle the remaining spices over the chicken. Rub spices into the chicken, as needed, to coat well.
  • GRILL PAN INSTRUCTIONS: Heat a nonstick grill pan over medium heat. Place half the chicken in the grill pan, making sure there is a gap between the pieces. Cook the chicken without touching it for 5 minutes. Flip over and cook an additional 3-5 minutes until cooked through. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
  • BROILING INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat the oven to BROIL. Arrange an oven rack 6 inches from the top of the oven. Place a wire rack over a large baking tray. Arrange the chicken on the wire rack. Place the chicken in the oven and broil for 6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oven, turn each piece of chicken over, and then broil an additional 5-6 minutes.
  • Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thin. Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

Notes

COOK’S NOTE: My preference and go-to cooking method for this chicken is my grill pan on the stove. When I’m in a rush, the oven method is a little faster, simply because you can cook it all at once. This chicken can also be cooked in a skillet on the stove or on an outdoor grill.

This recipe can be made with chicken breasts as well. Simply watch the cooking time and adjust as needed. Chicken breasts will cook faster than thighs, depending on their thickness.

Nutrition

Calories: 167kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 129mg | Sodium: 354mg | Potassium: 350mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 1mg

{originally published 5/13/20 – recipe notes and photos updated 10/2/25}

Last Minute Chicken - the easiest and tastiest chicken you'll ever make!

The post Last Minute Chicken appeared first on Barefeet in the Kitchen.

Weekly Meal Plan Oct 6, 2025

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Dinnertime just got a whole lot easier! With this premade meal plan, take the stress out of meal time. Save time and money while being inspired to try new recipes!

Beef Tips

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This recipe for beef tips is made with tender chunks of stew meat or beef chuck, slowly simmered in onion and beef broth until flavorful. Spoon it with savory gravy over creamy mashed potatoes and add a side of veggies for a hearty dinner.

One-Dish Comfort: Classic Stuffed Peppers

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These stuffed peppers are a hearty and flavorful meal. Filled with sausage, rice, and ground beef, they bake up tender and delicious for an easy dinner everyone will rave about!

Cheesy Garlic Butter Pull Apart Rolls

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Soft dinner rolls stuffed with melty mozzarella and bathed in parmesan garlic butter. These pull apart rolls are dangerously good!

The post Cheesy Garlic Butter Pull Apart Rolls appeared first on The Stay At Home Chef.

MAPLE BANANA BREAD

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This Maple Banana Bread is wonderful! It is the best Fall bread to make and great for the holiday season too. ❤️WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE The combination of maple and banana really goes well together. If you have followed us for any amount of time, you know we love banana bread. I think there…

Instant Pot Taco Soup

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Instant Pot Taco Soup

Instant Pot Taco Soup

This Instant Pot Taco Soup is a quick and easy weeknight dinner packed with bold Mexican flavors. Loaded with beef, beans, corn, and spices, it’s perfect topped with cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a hearty, family-friendly meal.

The Best Taco Soup Recipe

One of my favorite memories as a mom is of our daughters coming home on a chilly late fall afternoon, while our son, still just a toddler, stood at the window waiting for them. The moment they passed the big bush in our yard and came into view, he would light up with pure excitement, bouncing with joy until they walked through the door. That year felt like the happiest season for our little family. The girls would scoop him up in hugs, and that night we all gathered around the table with steaming bowls of taco soup topped with crunchy chips.

It’s funny how the simplest, most ordinary days become the ones we treasure most. There’s something about a pot of soup on the stove that feels grounding and safe. I honestly think every family should make soup at least once a month during the school year! Kids go through so much, and soup has a way of bringing comfort, warmth, and calm to the whole house.

Instant Pot Taco Soup Ingredients

This hearty taco soup is loaded with beef, beans, corn, and bold taco flavors. It’s quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or game-day gatherings.

  • Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef and onions.
  • Ground Beef: Provides hearty, savory flavor as the base of the soup. Can swap for ground chicken or ground turkey.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
  • Corn: Brings a touch of natural sweetness and texture.
  • Pinto Beans: Adds protein, fiber, and heartiness. Can swap for black beans or kidney beans.
  • Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies: Adds a mild kick and bright tomato flavor.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Provides a rich, savory tomato base for the soup.
  • Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds creamy, tangy flavor for extra depth.
  • Taco Seasoning: Gives the soup classic taco spices and a flavorful punch.
  • Beef Broth: Creates a savory, flavorful liquid base for the soup. Swap with chicken broth in a pinch.

Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Note: This recipe calls for dry ranch seasoning, not ranch dressing. Ranch seasoning usually comes in small packets and can be found in the spice aisle.

How to Make Taco Soup in an Instant Pot

This easy taco soup is packed with bold flavors and ready in no time using your Instant Pot or slow cooker.

  1. Sauté: Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot or a pan. Cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
  2. Drain: Remove excess fat from the meat and onions.
  3. Combine: Add corn, pinto beans, Rotel, diced tomatoes, ranch seasoning, and taco seasoning. Stir to mix.
  4. Add Broth: Pour in beef broth and stir until everything is well combined.
  5. Cook:
    • Instant Pot: Seal and cook on “Soup” for 20 minutes, then quick release.
    • Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 4 hours.
  6. Serve: Top with shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, and Fritos as desired.

Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite taco fixings for a hearty, satisfying meal everyone will love.

What to Top Instant Pot Taco Soup With

You can top your taco soup with anything you’d normally add to a taco. Some of our favorites include shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, Fritos, pickled jalapeños, avocado, diced tomato, chopped onion, hot sauce, and green chiles. For extra freshness, add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving. You can also serve it with warm tortillas or tortilla chips!

Kick up the heat with chili powder, a splash of hot sauce, or fresh peppers like jalapeño.

Can I Make Taco Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! To make this easy taco soup in a slow cooker, you’ll need to brown the meat and onions in a skillet before transferring the mixture to a slow cooker. Dump in the rest of the ingredients, then let the taco soup cook on low for 5 to 6 hours.

Freezing and Reheating Instant Pot Taco Soup

Instant Pot Taco Soup freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers. Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in freezer-safe bags or jars. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors stay just as vibrant, so it tastes fresh and delicious every time.

Tips for Making Instant Pot Taco Soup

Factor in pressure time: Remember the Instant Pot needs time to build and release pressure, which can add a few extra minutes to cooking.

Customize ingredients: Swap beans, omit corn, or adjust other ingredients to fit your taste and what you have on hand.

Add spice carefully: If you like it spicy, add a dash of hot sauce to the pot or just to your bowl. Start small—a little goes a long way.

Extra guidance: Check out our Instant Pot Pressure Cooker Cheat Sheet for tips on cooking all the basics in your Instant Pot.

This Instant Pot Taco Soup is hearty, flavorful, and easy to customize, making it the perfect weeknight meal. Top it with your favorite taco fixings and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl your whole family will love.

Other Comforting Recipes You’ll Love

How to Make Instant Pot Taco Soup

Print

Instant Pot Taco Soup

This Instant Pot Taco Soup is a quick and easy weeknight dinner packed with bold Mexican flavors. Loaded with beef, beans, corn, and spices, it’s perfect topped with cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a hearty, family-friendly meal.
Course 100 + BEST Easy Beef Recipes for Dinner
Cuisine American, Mexican
Keyword beans, ground beef, instant pot, main dish, soup
Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes minutes
Additional Time 20 minutes minutes
Total Time 50 minutes minutes
Servings 4 -6
Calories 831kcal
Author Carrian Cheney

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 Pounds Ground Beef
  • 1 Medium Onion chopped
  • 1 Can Corn 15.25 oz.
  • 1 Can Pinto Beans 16 oz., drained and rinsed
  • 1 Can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies 10 oz.
  • 2 Cans Diced Tomatoes 14.5 oz.
  • 1 Packet Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix
  • 2 Packets Taco Seasoning
  • 2 ½ Cups Beef Broth

Instructions

FOR THE INSTANT POT:

  • Set the instant pot to “Saute” and add olive oil.
    2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • Once hot, add the ground beef and onions, cook until meat is browned.
    2 Pounds Ground Beef, 1 Medium Onion
  • Turn off instant pot and drain meat.
  • Put the meat back into the instant pot.
  • Add corn, beans, rotel, diced tomatoes, ranch seasoning and taco seasoning.
    1 Can Corn, 1 Can Pinto Beans, 1 Can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, 2 Cans Diced Tomatoes, 1 Packet Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix, 2 Packets Taco Seasoning
  • Add beef broth and stir.
    2 ½ Cups Beef Broth
  • Place the lid on and set the valve to “Sealed”.
  • Press the “Soup” button and set timer for 20 minutes.
  • Once the soup is done, turn valve to “Quick Release”.
  • Serve soup with shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream and Fritos.  

FOR THE SLOW COOKER:

  • Heat a pan to medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the meat and the onions. Cook until meat is browned. Drain.
  • Add meat and onions to the slow cooker. Add corn, beans, rotel, diced tomatoes, ranch seasoning and taco seasoning. Add beef broth and stir.
  • Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 4 hours.
  • Serve soup with shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream and Fritos.

Video

Notes

Leftovers can be cooled, stored in freezer bags or jars, then thawed and reheated for a fresh, flavorful meal.
 
 
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1Bowl | Calories: 831kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 47g | Fat: 55g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 26g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 161mg | Sodium: 1582mg | Potassium: 1538mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 678IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 155mg | Iron: 8mg

READ: Instant Pot Taco Soup