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 just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this soup is perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of green enchilada sauce and salsa verde creates a rich and zesty flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Make it in your slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot. You choose how you want to prepare it!
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves 12 people, making it an excellent choice for gatherings and family dinners.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this soup is suitable for various dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make the green chicken enchilada soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Instant Pot
• Large Pot (for stovetop cooking)
• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Perfect for set-it-and-forget-it cooking. Enjoy the flavors developing over hours without constant supervision.
• Instant Pot: Reduces cooking time significantly while still retaining moisture and flavor.
• Large Pot: Ideal for stovetop preparation. A larger surface area allows even heating.
• Mixing Bowl: Great for combining ingredients like cream cheese before adding them to the soup.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 2.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Base Ingredients

• 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

Cheesy Goodness

• 2 cups shredded monterey jack cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed and softened – warm in the microwave if needed)

Flavor Enhancers

• 4 ounces green salsa (salsa verde)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on the countertop. This will help streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

If using a slow cooker:
1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and salsa verde.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

If using an Instant Pot:
1. Set to sauté mode and lightly brown the chicken if desired.
2. Add all other ingredients as mentioned above.

Step 3: Let It Cook

For slow cooker:
– Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender.

For Instant Pot:
– Seal it up and set the timer for 15 minutes on high pressure.

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 to the pot along with any accumulated juices.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in half and half or heavy cream, along with both types of cheese (monterey jack cheese and cream cheese) into the soup until melted.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle into bowls, top with extra cheese if desired, and serve hot! Enjoy your deliciously creamy green chicken enchilada soup!

How to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving green chicken enchilada soup can elevate your meal experience! This creamy and cheesy soup pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and sides that enhance its flavors.

Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and brightness.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings creaminess and tang to each bowl.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s texture and richness.
• Crispy Tortilla Strips: Add crunch with crunchy tortilla strips for a delightful contrast.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds acidity that balances the soup’s richness.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a perfect match for this savory soup.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice makes for a hearty side that pairs well with the soup.
• Guacamole: Serve alongside fresh guacamole for added creaminess and flavor.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

To achieve the best version of green chicken enchilada soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Adjust Spiciness: Customize the heat level by adding jalapeños or using mild salsa verde.
• Blend the Soup: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup before serving.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for added flavor or sharp cheddar for depth.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances all the flavors and makes it even tastier.

Best Side Dishes for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pair your green chicken enchilada soup with these delicious side dishes to create a complete meal!

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese.
2. Cheesy Quesadillas: Melty cheese in warm tortillas pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
3. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add heartiness and protein to your meal.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a fun appetizer option.
5. Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa brightens up your plate with freshness and crunch.
6. Garden Salad: A light garden salad can balance out the richness of the soup while adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your green chicken enchilada soup even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Opt for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs for the best texture. Avoid using bone-in pieces as they can make the soup greasy.
• Neglecting flavor adjustments: Always taste and adjust seasoning. Adding salt and pepper at the end can elevate the dish significantly.
• Skipping the cream cheese: This ingredient adds a creamy texture. Make sure to cube and soften it before adding to ensure it blends well.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking too long or too short can affect the chicken’s tenderness. Follow recommended cook times closely for optimal results.
• Not using enough broth: Insufficient broth can lead to a dry soup. Ensure you measure accurately for a deliciously soupy consistency.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 2-4 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring often, until hot, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about green chicken enchilada soup that may help you make this dish even better.

What is Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Green chicken enchilada soup is a creamy and cheesy soup made with shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, and cheese. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any night.

Can I make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

Is Green Chicken Enchilada Soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free enchilada sauce and broth, this soup can be enjoyed by those avoiding gluten.

How can I customize Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Feel free to add beans, corn, or diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This green chicken enchilada soup is not only creamy and cheesy but incredibly versatile. You can adjust ingredients according to your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Try it out today and enjoy customizing it to fit your taste!