Chicken Enchilada Soup

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends, this soup features tender chicken, zesty spices, and a creamy finish. Whether you opt for the stove top or slow cooker method, this easy recipe promises to impress without taking too much time. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.
• Flexible Ingredients: Use chicken breast, thighs, or even leftover cooked chicken to suit your pantry and preferences.
• Rich Flavor Profile: A blend of spices and cheeses creates a hearty dish that bursts with flavor in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, Chicken Enchilada Soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Great Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. These items will help you whip up your Chicken Enchilada Soup with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients evenly and allowing room for simmering.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of spices for balanced flavors.

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

Fats & Vegetables

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

Main 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)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (or 2 small)(see notes if using cooked chicken)

Creamy Elements

• 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

Begin by combining the seasonings in a small bowl and set aside. Take out the cream cheese to allow it to soften while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle boil on low heat.
– Allow chicken to slowly cook through for about 15-20 minutes.
– Remove the chicken from the pot once cooked, then shred it using two forks before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Reduce heat to low after shredding the chicken.
– Stir in softened cream cheese until well combined.
– Add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted into a creamy texture.

Step 6: Taste & Serve

Taste your Chicken Enchilada Soup for seasoning adjustments.
– Feel free to add more spices if desired.
– Serve warm garnished with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful experience, as it can be customized in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your soup even more enjoyable.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a rich, creamy contrast to the spicy soup.
• Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado gives a smooth, buttery texture that complements the soup beautifully.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add crunch and extra flavor when sprinkled on top.
• Cheese: Additional shredded cheese can be melted on top for an extra cheesy bite.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges allows diners to add a splash of citrus for brightness.

Serve with Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the soup.
• Rice: A side of fluffy rice can help soak up the delicious broth and make for a filling meal.

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How to Perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup

To achieve the best Chicken Enchilada Soup possible, consider these handy tips. They will help you elevate this already fantastic dish!

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh or high-quality chicken will greatly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your preference for heat.
• Use Homemade Broth: If time allows, using homemade chicken broth can deepen the flavors significantly.
• Experiment with Beans: Try using different types of beans like pinto or kidney beans for variety in texture and taste.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

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

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixture that complements the spiciness of the soup perfectly.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice seasoned with spices adds a hearty touch alongside your soup.
3. Garden Salad: A light salad brings freshness to balance out the richness of the enchilada soup.
4. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas make for a deliciously satisfying side that pairs well with any soup.
5. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds a bright, zesty contrast that enhances every bite of soup.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful sweetness that complements the flavors in your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Enchilada Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes ensures a delicious result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Frozen Chicken: Thaw your chicken first for even cooking. This prevents the meat from being tough and chewy.
• Skipping the Seasonings: Don’t skip or skimp on spices. They are essential for flavor, so measure carefully and taste as you go.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Remove the chicken once it’s cooked through. Overcooking can make it dry; aim for tender, juicy meat.
• Not Shredding Properly: Shred chicken into small pieces for better texture in your soup. Larger chunks can make it hard to enjoy.
• Ignoring Cheese Quality: Use fresh cheese instead of pre-shredded. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and enhances creaminess.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions commonly asked about Chicken Enchilada Soup:

What is Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Chicken Enchilada Soup is a creamy, cheesy dish made with chicken, enchilada sauce, and various vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works great in this recipe. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

How spicy is this Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The spice level depends on your choice of jalapenos and optional hot sauce. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is an easy recipe that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. It’s versatile; feel free to customize by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!