Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

You’ll love this creamy, cheesy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup! Made with green enchilada sauce, salsa verde, melty cheese, and tender shredded chicken, it’s easy to make in your slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot—perfect for busy nights! This soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a quick 10-minute prep time, this recipe fits into any busy schedule.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of green enchilada sauce and salsa verde creates a rich, savory taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose the slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot, this recipe adapts to your preference.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for parties or leftovers throughout the week.
• Comforting Meal: Creamy and cheesy textures make this soup perfect for cozy nights in.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Pot (for stovetop method)
• Instant Pot
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it!
• Instant Pot: Ideal for quick meals; cuts down cooking time significantly.
• Large Pot: Great for making larger batches on the stovetop; allows for easy stirring and mixing.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 recipe green enchilada sauce (or a 28-ounce can store-bought sauce)
• 24 ounces chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded monterey jack cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed and softened – warm in the microwave if needed)
• 4 ounces green salsa (salsa verde)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place your boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs in your slow cooker or large pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Add Sauces and Broth

Pour in the green enchilada sauce, followed by the chicken broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

For Slow Cooker:
1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

For Stovetop:
1. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return it back into the soup.

Step 5: Add Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the half and half or heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded monterey jack cheese, and green salsa. Allow it to melt into a creamy consistency over low heat.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot with toppings like cilantro or tortilla strips if desired. Enjoy your delightful Green Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving green chicken enchilada soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this creamy, cheesy soup.

Make It a Meal

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.
• Warm Tortillas: Pair with warm corn or flour tortillas for dipping and extra satisfaction.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and freshness, enhancing the dish.

Garnish Options

• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the soup and balances the richness.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess, making each bite richer.

Additional Toppings

• Shredded Lettuce: Add crisp shredded lettuce for a refreshing crunch on top of your soup.
• Chopped Scallions: Sprinkle chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.

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How to Perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

To ensure you achieve the best version of green chicken enchilada soup, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will elevate the taste. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought green enchilada sauce.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Customize the creaminess by adjusting half-and-half or heavy cream to suit your preference.
• Shred Chicken Properly: Ensure chicken is shredded finely to mix well with the soup and absorb flavors thoroughly.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper throughout cooking for balanced flavor.
• Slow Cook for Flavor Development: If using a slow cooker, allow ample cooking time for flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your green chicken enchilada soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: This flavorful rice dish complements the spices in your soup perfectly; consider making it with cilantro and lime for extra zest.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans serve as a filling and protein-rich side that goes wonderfully with your soup.
3. Cornbread: A slice of cornbread adds sweetness and texture, balancing well with the spiciness of the soup.
4. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip is perfect for scooping up soup or enjoying on its own as a refreshing side.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Roasted corn topped with cheese and spices makes a fun and flavorful addition to your meal.
6. Salad Verde: A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
7. Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick that pairs well with creamy soups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making green chicken enchilada soup is easy, but some common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Always opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Using skin-on or bone-in can lead to a greasy soup.

• Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper during cooking. Seasoning enhances the flavors of your soup.

• Skipping the cream cheese: This ingredient adds a rich creaminess. Omitting it can make your soup less satisfying.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s just done.

• Not letting it simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together. Rushing this step can lead to a bland dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing green chicken enchilada soup:

What is Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Green chicken enchilada soup is a creamy, cheesy soup made with green enchilada sauce and shredded chicken, perfect for quick dinners.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily prepare green chicken enchilada soup in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I customize my Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Feel free to add beans, corn, or diced vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely! The low-carb ingredients make it suitable for a keto diet while still being delicious and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This green chicken enchilada soup is not only creamy and cheesy but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something comforting and warm. Give it a try; you’ll be delighted with its rich flavors!