Are you ever stumped by the question, what sandwich goes with taco soup? It’s a dilemma many home cooks face—how to pair a hearty, spicy bowl of taco soup with the perfect sandwich. You want something that complements the bold flavors without overpowering them. No need to worry, though; we’ve got you covered! First, imagine a warm, toasty sandwich alongside your soup, bringing a delightful contrast of textures. It’s a simple, yet effective way to elevate your meal.
Next, think about how easy and versatile this pairing can be. The right sandwich can be quick to prepare and even healthy, making it ideal for a busy day. You’re going to love how effortlessly the flavors come together. From crisp veggie wraps to cheesy grilled perfection, there’s something for everyone. Ready to discover the best sandwich pairings? Keep reading, and let’s make your next taco soup experience even better!
Best Sandwich Pairings for Taco Soup
Classic Grilled Cheese for a Creamy Contrast
Pairing a classic grilled cheese with taco soup is like a match made in heaven! The crispy bread and gooey melted cheese offer the perfect creamy contrast to the spicy, savory soup. First, the richness of the cheese balances out the heat of the taco soup. Also, the bread adds the ideal texture—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. When dipped in taco soup, it soaks up the flavors beautifully. Whether you prefer cheddar or a blend of cheeses, the flavor options are endless. You can even mix it up by adding a bit of mustard or a hint of garlic butter for extra flair. So next time you’re wondering what sandwich goes with taco soup, a grilled cheese is always a winner.
Avocado Toast for a Fresh Twist
Avocado toast offers a fresh and healthy pairing that perfectly complements the rich flavors of taco soup. The creamy avocado spreads easily over toasted bread, creating a smooth texture that contrasts nicely with the soup’s spices. Plus, it’s simple to make and customizable with toppings like a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of chili flakes. Here’s a quick breakdown of the avocado toast:
| Ingredient | How it Adds to the Dish |
|---|---|
| Avocado | Smooth, creamy texture |
| Lime juice | Adds freshness and tang |
| Chili flakes | Enhances the spiciness of the soup |
This twist on a traditional sandwich will leave you feeling refreshed while still satisfied.
Light Sandwich Options to Complement Taco Soup
Veggie-Packed Wraps for a Healthy Choice
If you’re looking for something lighter, veggie-packed wraps are an excellent choice to go with taco soup. They’re fresh, full of color, and provide a crisp contrast to the soup’s texture. Plus, they’re easy to prepare—just load a whole-grain tortilla with greens, avocado, cucumber, and other crunchy vegetables. A simple dressing like a lemon vinaigrette will keep it light and refreshing. With no meat involved, wraps also provide a healthier option. Not to mention, you can customize them however you like, making them perfect for any dietary preference.
Open-Faced Sandwiches with Fresh Toppings
Open-faced sandwiches bring an exciting twist to your meal. You get all the delicious toppings without the bread overload. These sandwiches work well with taco soup because the fresh veggies and simple spreads keep the sandwich light and complementary. Some great topping ideas include:
- Sliced tomatoes and fresh basil
- Hummus and roasted peppers
- A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar
Open-faced sandwiches are easy to customize and allow the fresh ingredients to shine.
How to Balance Flavors Between Taco Soup and Sandwiches
Combining Spices and Textures for Harmony
When pairing sandwiches with taco soup, balancing the spices and textures is key. The taco soup is often loaded with bold flavors, so your sandwich should bring something that either complements or offers contrast. First, you can balance the spiciness with something neutral, like cheese or avocado. Next, you can add crunchy textures like toasted bread or fresh vegetables. This balance creates a perfect harmony between the two dishes. Also, consider using a light spread or a mild dressing to bring everything together.
Pairing Mild Flavors with Bold Ingredients
When pairing mild sandwiches with bold taco soup, simplicity is your friend. A sandwich with mild ingredients like lettuce, cucumbers, or simple cheese helps tone down the intense flavors of the soup. You don’t want the sandwich to compete with the bold spices in the soup, so keep it light. For instance, a simple hummus sandwich or a cucumber and cream cheese spread will do the trick.
- Mild bread options like whole grain or sourdough work best.
- Add some fresh herbs to give a light but flavorful punch.
- Avoid heavy spreads or sauces that might overwhelm the meal.
Creative Sandwiches That Add a Crunchy Element
Crispy Chicken Sandwiches to Match Taco Soup’s Heat
Crispy chicken sandwiches bring an exciting crunch that complements the heat of taco soup. The breaded chicken adds a satisfying crunch, while the tender meat inside offers a hearty bite. You can use a simple fried chicken breast, or for a twist, try crispy chicken tenders. To make it even more delicious, top the chicken with a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese. This adds creaminess and balances the heat from the taco soup. The crispy breading also gives the sandwich a satisfying texture that enhances the meal.
Toasted Sub Rolls for Added Crunch and Flavor
If you want something extra crunchy, toasted sub rolls are the way to go. The warm, crunchy texture adds depth to your meal. Pair the sub rolls with ingredients like turkey, cheese, or even veggies for a filling sandwich that pairs perfectly with taco soup. You can toast the rolls lightly or make them extra crispy—either way, they add that needed crunch. Here are some benefits of toasted sub rolls:
- Adds a satisfying crunch to the sandwich
- Holds up well to dipping in soup without getting soggy
- Versatile enough to be filled with a variety of ingredients
Now that you’ve got the perfect sandwich pairings in mind, it’s time to take it up a notch with a crispy chicken sandwich that’ll make your taco soup even more unforgettable! Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
Let’s start with the fun part—the ingredients! These will make your chicken sandwich both delicious and satisfying. Here’s a peek at what you’ll need:
- Cooked Chicken – Start with 500g (about 1 lb) of cooked chicken. Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a time-saver!
- Celery – Add one celery stem for a crunchy, fresh taste.
- Green Onion – One finely sliced green onion brings a mild, savory flavor.
- Walnuts – 3/4 cup of walnuts for a rich, crunchy texture. Swap them for cashews or pecans if preferred.
- Dill Pickles – 3 tbsp of finely chopped dill pickles for a tangy bite.
- Fresh Dill – 1 1/2 tbsp of chopped fresh dill adds a herby kick.
- Mayonnaise – 2/3 cup of whole egg mayo creates a smooth, creamy base.
- Sour Cream – Add 2/3 cup of sour cream for balance and tanginess.
- Dijon Mustard – 2 tsp of Dijon mustard adds sharpness and a hint of heat.
- Lemon Juice – 1 1/2 tbsp of lemon juice brightens the flavors.
- Spices – 1/2 tsp onion powder and 1/4 tsp garlic powder for depth.
- Salt & Pepper – Season with 3/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Bread – Use 20 slices of day-old white sandwich bread or try whole wheat or sourdough.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make your scrumptious chicken sandwiches? Here’s how you can do it step-by-step:
- Shred the Chicken – First, shred your cooked chicken as finely as you can. You can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for an easy and quick result. If you don’t have one, use a handheld beater or your hands to shred it into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Sauce – Next, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, onion powder, and garlic powder in a bowl. Mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy. This is the magic sauce that holds everything together.
- Mix in the Chicken and Add-ins – Then, pour the sauce over your shredded chicken. Stir in the walnuts, dill pickles, green onions, celery, and fresh dill. Mix well until all the ingredients are coated evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Sandwiches – Now, spread salted butter on each slice of bread. Then, generously spread the chicken filling on one slice, and top it with another slice of bread. If you prefer a fancier look, you can remove the crusts and slice the sandwiches in half.
- Serve and Enjoy – Finally, serve your sandwiches with a fresh side salad or some crispy fries. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness that pairs perfectly with your taco soup!
Serving
Once your chicken sandwiches are ready, it’s time to serve! These sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, especially when paired with your hearty taco soup.
- This recipe serves 10 people generously. You can enjoy the sandwiches on their own or serve them as part of a meal with taco soup.
- Optional Garnishes or Pairings – To add a fun twist, pair your sandwich with a light side salad, some crunchy chips, or even a chilled iced tea for the perfect meal. Want to kick it up? Add a few slices of avocado on top!
Tips and Hacks
Here are some handy tips to make your chicken sandwich even better:
- Make It Extra Creamy – For a richer filling, try adding a little extra mayo or sour cream. This will make the sandwich even more indulgent!
- Boost the Flavor – If you want a tangier kick, use a bit of extra lemon juice or Dijon mustard. It’ll give the filling an extra zing that pairs well with the taco soup.
- Versatile Options – You can swap walnuts for other nuts like cashews or macadamia for a different texture. Alternatively, for a gluten-free version, try gluten-free bread.
- Storage Tips – These sandwiches are great for meal prep! You can store the filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just assemble the sandwiches right before serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fiber: 4g
Please note: These estimates are based on ingredient brands and portion sizes, and may vary depending on preparation methods.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (since the chicken is already cooked)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Please note: Prep time may vary depending on your speed at shredding chicken and assembling the sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to thicken up taco soup?
To thicken up taco soup, first, you can add some cornstarch mixed with water. This will give it a smooth, thick texture. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans or veggies in the soup to naturally thicken it. Also, you could simmer the soup longer to reduce it. This allows the flavors to concentrate, giving a richer taste. You’re going to love how it turns out!
What goes good with taco party?
A taco party is fun and lively! You can serve a variety of sides like nachos, guacamole, and salsa. For something fresh, try a side salad with crunchy veggies. You can also offer soft drinks, margaritas, or iced tea. To make it extra special, serve tortilla chips with a creamy dip! These items balance out the spicy tacos. Your guests will love the variety and flavor.
What do you serve soup out of?
When serving soup, choose bowls that are sturdy and hold plenty. Soup mugs with handles are also a great choice! For a cozy meal, try a bread bowl for something unique. You can even serve it in mason jars for a fun twist. Make sure the bowl can handle heat, so you’re not left with a messy spill. It’s all about making it feel special and fun!
What sandwich goes with mushroom soup?
Mushroom soup pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich! The creamy soup and crispy, cheesy sandwich are a match made in heaven. You could also go with a turkey or chicken sandwich with mild flavors, so they don’t overpower the soup. For a twist, try a panini with spinach or arugula. It’s a comforting, tasty combination that everyone will enjoy. You’re going to love this pairing!