Chicken Enchilada Soup

This EASY Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is bound to become a family favorite. The best part? You can make it on the stove top or in a Crock Pot, making it incredibly versatile!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavor Explosion: Packed with spices and cheesy goodness, each spoonful delivers comfort and satisfaction.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken breast, thighs, or even leftover chicken along with pantry staples.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeño and hot sauce to suit your taste.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields about 11 servings, ideal for family gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot ensures even cooking of all ingredients without overflow.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through onions and peppers quick and easy.

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 & Seasonings

• 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

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 Ingredients

• 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 bowl and set aside. Take out the cream cheese to soften it at room temperature. Shred cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese from blocks and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and jalapeño peppers. Soften them for about 4 minutes before adding minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season each side with salt and pepper. Place it in the soup pot along with all remaining ingredients except for cream cheese and shredded cheese.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Allow the chicken to cook slowly for about 15-20 minutes—avoid boiling too hard as it may toughen the meat. Remove the chicken once cooked through; shred it using two forks before returning it to the soup.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Stir in softened cream cheese until fully combined. Then add shredded cheeses until melted into the soup.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your Chicken Enchilada Soup; add any additional seasonings as needed before serving warm!

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

Chicken Enchilada Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the spices.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado provides a rich texture and balances out the heat from the soup.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an herbal note that brightens the dish.

Accompaniments

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and a fun dipping experience.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread pairs perfectly with the soup’s bold flavors and makes for a filling meal.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for a zesty kick that enhances all the flavors.

Additional Ingredients

• Shredded Lettuce: Adding shredded lettuce gives a refreshing crunch to each bite.
• Jalapeños: For those who love extra spice, sliced jalapeños make a great garnish.

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How to Perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup

To ensure your Chicken Enchilada Soup turns out amazing every time, consider these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance flavor compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne or hot sauce based on your preference for heat.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook the chicken just until tender to prevent it from becoming dry and tough.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like pepper jack for added flavor complexity.
• Allow Flavors to Meld: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to blend beautifully.
• Garnish Creatively: Use various toppings like pico de gallo or crumbled queso fresco to add visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing your Chicken Enchilada Soup with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup’s creamy texture.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings richness and pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a nice contrast to savory dishes; grill it for extra smokiness.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness and freshness.
5. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with cheese and garlic makes an indulgent side that everyone loves.
6. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and enhance the Mexican theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Enchilada Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning prep – Not measuring or preparing your spices beforehand can lead to uneven flavor. Always combine your seasonings before starting the soup.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too fast can make it tough. Allow it to simmer gently rather than boiling rapidly.
• Neglecting cream cheese temperature – Using cold cream cheese can create lumps in your soup. Make sure it’s softened before adding it to the pot.
• Ignoring texture balance – If you skip the beans or corn, you miss out on great texture. Use all ingredients for a well-rounded soup.
• Serving without garnishes – Serving plain soup can feel incomplete. Consider adding toppings like cilantro or avocado for extra flavor and visual appeal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Enchilada Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Enchilada Soup.

How do I make Chicken Enchilada Soup gluten-free?

You can make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free enchilada sauce and checking all other ingredients for gluten content.

Can I use leftover chicken for Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Yes! Leftover chicken works perfectly. Just add it after the broth has heated through to avoid overcooking.

What toppings go well with Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor.

How spicy is Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The spiciness depends on how much jalapeno and hot sauce you use. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; its creamy and cheesy flavors are sure to delight!