Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up a satisfying meal any night of the week. Serve it topped with your favorite garnishes for an extra touch of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and creamy ingredients creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Customize your soup with different toppings like avocado or cilantro to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and veggies, this soup makes a complete meal on its own.
• Kid-Friendly: Its mild flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready ensures you can focus on creating this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering all the ingredients together without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor in every batch.

Ingredients

This creamy chicken enchilada soup is loaded with shredded chicken, chunky tomatoes, and a cheesy, creamy broth, all seasoned with classic enchilada flavors. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients like enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and plenty of shredded cheese. Serve it with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that comes together quickly any night of the week!

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil (Butter or Ghee)
• 1 pound skinless chicken breasts or thighs (boneless (cubed or shredded))
• 1 Medium Onion (diced)
• 3 Cloves Fresh Garlic (minced)
• 1 can Enchilada Sauce (10 oz (red or green, depending on your preference))
• 1 can Diced Roasted Tomatoes (14.5 oz (with green chilies or regular))
• 4 cups Chicken Broth (low-sodium 32 oz.)
• 1 can Black Beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup Frozen Sweet Corn (drained)
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
• ½ teaspoon Ground Coriander (optional for extra depth)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup Sour Cream (for creaminess)
• 1 cup Cheese (shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• Toppings (optional: avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, lime wedges, additional cheese)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large pot over medium heat, add the avocado oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion until translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and cubed chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.

Step 3: Mix in Sauces

Add the enchilada sauce and diced roasted tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add black beans, sweet corn, cumin, chili powder, ground coriander if using, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Stir in Creaminess

Remove from heat and stir in sour cream until fully incorporated. Top with shredded cheese before serving.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of creamy chicken enchilada soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Creamy chicken enchilada soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crunchy Tortilla Chips

• Tortilla chips add an extra crunch. Dip them into the soup for a delightful texture contrast.

Topped with Fresh Avocado

• Sliced or diced avocado provides creaminess and a rich flavor that complements the soup perfectly.

Sprinkle of Fresh Cilantro

• Adding cilantro brightens up the dish with its fresh herbaceous notes. It’s also a great garnish for presentation.

Lime Wedges on the Side

• A squeeze of lime juice just before eating adds acidity that balances the rich flavors of the soup.

Finished with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, melting additional shredded cheese on top creates a gooey, indulgent finish.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible container that enhances flavor.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

To ensure your creamy chicken enchilada soup is always spot-on, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your soup.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the chili powder and cumin to suit your heat preference. This makes the dish more personalized.

• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, make your own chicken broth for deeper flavor. Store-bought is convenient but may lack richness.

• Blend for Smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before adding back the shredded chicken and other ingredients.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and variety in textures.

• Allow It to Rest: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with creamy chicken enchilada soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the soup while being filling and satisfying.

2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup and are perfect for dipping.

3. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds richness and pairs well with tortilla chips alongside the soup.

4. Grilled Street Corn: Charred corn on the cob topped with lime and cotija cheese adds a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

5. Crispy Salad: A fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and radishes offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the hearty soup.

6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime brightens up each bite of soup.

7. Stuffed Jalapeños: Spicy jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese or cheese make for an exciting appetizer that pairs nicely with soups.

8. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of creamy chicken enchilada soup while adding cheesy goodness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy chicken enchilada soup, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap or expired ingredients can ruin the flavor of your soup. Always use fresh, high-quality products for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for a tender, juicy texture by checking for doneness early.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient has its own level of saltiness. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasoning to ensure a balanced flavor.
• Skipping the garnishes: Toppings like avocado and cilantro add freshness and complexity. Don’t skip these; they elevate your soup’s presentation and taste.
• Not following the cooking times: Each step has an intended time for a reason. Rushing could lead to undercooked vegetables or uneven flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover creamy chicken enchilada soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers to store the soup.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy 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 fully heated.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about creamy chicken enchilada soup that may help you while preparing this dish.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for creamy chicken enchilada soup?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds flavor and saves time. Just shred it before adding it to the soup.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute for sour cream, which will still provide creaminess.

How spicy is creamy chicken enchilada soup?

The spiciness depends on the type of enchilada sauce used. For milder flavor, opt for a mild sauce; for more heat, choose a spicy variety.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with black beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

This creamy chicken enchilada soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or tweak the spices to match your taste preferences. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or lunch leftovers, so give it a try!