Chicken Enchilada Soup

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for gathering with friends, this soup fits the bill. Packed with tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy cheeses, it brings warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. Plus, it’s easy to make on the stove top or in a Crock Pot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple pantry ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Choose between the stove top or Crock Pot for your convenience.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of spices and creamy cheese makes every spoonful delightful.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with proteins from chicken and beans while being lower in calories.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this delicious soup!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking much easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items to have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking everything evenly and allows enough space for stirring.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables without damaging your counters.
• Sharp knife: A good knife ensures clean cuts which speeds up preparation time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Chicken Enchilada Soup:

For the Soup Base

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

For Cooking

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

For the 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)

For Creaminess

• 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 all the seasonings in a small bowl and set aside. Take out the cream cheese so it can soften while you prepare the other ingredients. Shred your cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese from blocks for fresher flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper before adding it to the pot along with all remaining ingredients except for cream cheese and shredded cheeses.

Step 4: Simmer Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the chicken to cook through slowly over about 15-20 minutes. Avoid rapid boiling as it can toughen the meat. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces before returning it back to the soup pot.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Reduce heat to low. Stir in softened cream cheese until fully combined followed by shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup; adjust any seasonings as needed before serving hot! Enjoy your delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

Chicken Enchilada Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve the soup with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor. You can use store-bought chips or make your own by baking corn tortillas until golden.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of fresh avocado on top of the soup for a creamy texture and rich taste. Avocado pairs beautifully with the spices in the soup.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

• Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over each bowl before serving. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the enchilada flavors.

Drizzled with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream can balance the heat from the jalapeno peppers, creating a creamy contrast to the spicy soup.

Accompanied by Lime Wedges

• Serve lime wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lime juice over your soup enhances its flavors and adds a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, so opt for fresh onions and peppers whenever possible.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount of jalapeno used. Conversely, add more for extra heat.

• Shred Your Own Cheese: Shredding cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like sliced radishes or crumbled queso fresco for varied flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

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

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds rich taste and pairs well with crunchy tortilla chips.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a delightful accompaniment and balances the spiciness of the soup.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and beans make for a hearty side that matches well with enchilada flavors.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred seasonal vegetables provide a healthy side option that complements the soup’s richness.
7. Side Salad: A simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado drizzled in lime vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.
8. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with veggies or chicken can be dipped into the soup for an extra cheesy experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning prep: Failing to combine and prepare your spices in advance can lead to uneven flavor. Always mix your seasonings beforehand for a well-seasoned soup.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken at too high a temperature can make it tough. Be sure to simmer gently and monitor cooking time closely.
• Neglecting cheese quality: Using pre-shredded cheese can affect melting and texture. Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for a creamier result.
• Not tasting before serving: Skipping the taste test can result in a bland dish. Always sample your soup and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Using cold cream cheese: Adding cold cream cheese directly can create lumps. Ensure it’s softened first to blend smoothly into the soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Enchilada Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Enchilada Soup

• You can freeze this soup for up to 2-3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Enchilada Soup:

Can I use leftover chicken for Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Yes! Leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time. Just add it during step 3.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or a homemade broth if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Is Chicken Enchilada Soup spicy?

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

How do I thicken Chicken Enchilada Soup?

To thicken your soup, consider adding more cream cheese or using a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water before adding).

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only easy to make but also filled with flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and can be customized with your favorite toppings like avocado or cilantro. Give it a try today!