Chicken Enchilada Soup

This Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe is a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family gathering, this soup combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and creamy cheeses to create an unforgettable meal. You can easily whip it up on the stovetop or let it simmer in the Crock Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s adaptable to suit your taste with simple pantry ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spices and cheeses delivers a rich and satisfying taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken breast, thighs, or even leftover chicken to make this soup your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe yields 11 servings, making it great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
• Crock Pot Option: Enjoy the convenience of letting your slow cooker do the work for you.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Crock Pot (optional)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This is essential for combining all your ingredients and ensuring even cooking.
• Crock Pot: Perfect if you prefer to let your soup simmer throughout the day without constant attention.
• Cutting board & knife: These are crucial for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

This EASY Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe can be made on the stove top or in the Crock Pot! Use chicken breast, chicken thighs, or leftover chicken along with simple pantry ingredients.

Spices

• ½ teaspoon EACH: chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon: cumin
• 1 pinch EACH: cinnamon, cayenne pepper

Base Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon: butter
• 1 tablespoon: olive oil
• 1 yellow onion: diced
• 1 jalapeno pepper: diced with seeds removed
• 3 cloves: garlic minced

Liquid Ingredients

• 10 oz.: red enchilada sauce
• 10 oz.: diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
• 15 oz.: black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz.: canned whole kernel corn (drained)
• 4 cups: chicken broth

Chicken & Dairy

• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (or 2 small).
  (see notes if using cooked chicken)
• 4 oz.: cream cheese (cubed and softened)
• 1 cup: cheddar cheese (shredded)
• ½ cup: Monterey Jack cheese (shredded. Can also use more cheddar.)

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Prep Work

Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and set them aside. Take out the cream cheese so that it can soften while you prepare other ingredients. Shred cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese from a block and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions and jalapeno peppers. Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season each side with salt and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the soup pot along with all remaining ingredients except for the cream cheese and shredded cheese.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Allow the chicken to cook through slowly—about 15-20 minutes—to prevent toughness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until well combined, then add shredded cheese gradually until melted.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust any additional seasonings as needed. Once satisfied with flavor, serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Chicken Enchilada Soup can be as fun and creative as you want it to be. This cozy soup pairs beautifully with various toppings and sides, enhancing its flavors and presentation.

Toppings

• Avocado: Fresh, sliced avocado adds creaminess and balances the spice of the soup.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a tangy contrast that complements the flavors.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a burst of freshness, making each bite more vibrant.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice adds brightness and a zesty kick.

Accompaniments

• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping or adding a delightful crunch to the soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory flavors, making for a comforting meal.
• Rice: Serving the soup over rice creates a hearty dish that is filling and satisfying.

Salad Pairings

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup without overpowering it.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful salad brings in corn, cheese, and spices, mirroring the soup’s ingredients.

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How to Perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup

Perfecting your Chicken Enchilada Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can elevate the overall taste of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go! Adjust chili powder or hot sauce according to your heat preference for a personalized touch.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an extra smooth texture, blend part of the soup before adding back the chicken.
• Let it Simmer Longer: Allowing your soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors; just make sure not to overcook the chicken!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Enchilada Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Crispy bread topped with melted cheese and garlic provides a delightful contrast in textures.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup while adding substance to your meal.
3. Grilled Veggies: Lightly charred vegetables add color and flavor, making for a wholesome addition.
4. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas offer gooey goodness that pairs perfectly with each spoonful.
5. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds crunch and brightness, enhancing every bite of the enchilada soup.
6. Chips & Guacamole: The creamy guacamole alongside crispy chips makes for an irresistible snack while enjoying your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Enchilada Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season the chicken before cooking. Seasoning enhances flavor, so don’t skip this important step.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for a gentle boil and monitor closely.
• Using cold cream cheese: Adding cold cream cheese can create lumps. Allow it to soften first for a smooth texture.
• Not tasting before serving: Failing to taste the soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Ignoring ingredient swaps: Sticking rigidly to the recipe may limit creativity. Feel free to substitute with what you have on hand!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Enchilada Soup.

How do I make Chicken Enchilada Soup spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of jalapeno or add extra cayenne pepper in your Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time while making Chicken Enchilada Soup.

What toppings go well with Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Consider adding avocado, fresh cilantro, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with beans or additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Give it a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!