Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It brings together tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth infused with traditional enchilada flavors. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this soup is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with chicken, beans, and corn, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and bold flavors.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering the soup evenly without overflowing.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For Flavoring

• 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.)

For Heartiness

• 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)

For Creaminess

• 1 cup Sour Cream (for creaminess)
• 1 cup Cheese (shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)

For 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 heated, sauté the diced onion until translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the cubed or shredded chicken to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides. Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, frozen corn, ground cumin, chili powder, ground coriander if using, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

After simmering, remove from heat. Stir in sour cream until fully incorporated. Add shredded cheese gradually while stirring for that creamy texture.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with optional avocado slices, cilantro, tortilla strips, lime wedges, or additional cheese as desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

This creamy chicken enchilada soup is versatile and delightful. You can serve it in various ways to enhance the dining experience. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to consider.

With Toppings

• Avocado – Add slices of fresh avocado for a rich, buttery flavor.
• Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Tortilla Strips – Crunchy tortilla strips make a great addition for texture.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors beautifully.
• Extra Cheese – Top with more shredded cheese for an indulgent treat.

As a Main Dish

• With Rice – Serve over white or brown rice for a heartier meal.
• With Tortillas – Warm corn or flour tortillas on the side for dipping.
• As a Dip – Use it as a dip for chips at your next gathering.

Pairing with Drinks

• Margarita – A refreshing margarita complements the Tex-Mex flavors perfectly.
• Iced Tea – Sweetened iced tea balances the spiciness of the soup.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making the perfect creamy chicken enchilada soup is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by adding more chili powder or jalapeños if desired.
• Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
• Blend for Extra Creaminess – For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup before adding back to the pot.
• Experiment with Cheeses – Try different cheeses like pepper jack or goat cheese for unique tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with creamy chicken enchilada soup can enhance your meal further. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful soup perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with spices adds a delicious contrast to the creamy soup.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a lovely balance to the savory flavors of the soup.
3. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip pairs wonderfully, offering both flavor and texture.
4. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing black bean salad adds crunch and nutrition alongside the soup.
5. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas make for an excellent dipping option that kids will love too!
6. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa offer a classic Tex-Mex combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your creamy chicken enchilada soup, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a delicious result.

• Using the wrong type of chicken: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs. This keeps the soup tender and flavorful.
• Not seasoning adequately: Always taste your soup during cooking. Adjusting salt and spices helps bring out the best flavors.
• Skipping the broth: Using water instead of chicken broth can lead to bland soup. Stick with low-sodium broth for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the ingredients: Be careful not to overcook your vegetables and chicken. They should be cooked through but still maintain some texture.
• Neglecting toppings: Adding toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips enhances both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this step!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover it, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making creamy chicken enchilada soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make creamy chicken enchilada soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute shredded chicken with beans or extra veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I make my creamy chicken enchilada soup spicier?

Add jalapeños or increase the chili powder amount to boost the heat level according to your taste.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor to your creamy chicken enchilada soup.

What toppings are best for creamy chicken enchilada soup?

Popular toppings include avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, crushed tortilla chips, and additional cheese.

How long does it take to make creamy chicken enchilada soup?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 45 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This creamy chicken enchilada soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and easy customization options, you can adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!