Chicken enchilada soup simmering in a pot with visible beans, corn, and shredded chicken.

Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe | Quick & Easy

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Hot soup on a cold evening is very comforting. Imagine the smell of creamy chicken soup filling your kitchen. It reminds you of family dinners and gatherings.

This Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup is more than a meal. It’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together. If you want a quick and comforting soup, you’re in the right place.

Chicken enchilada soup simmering in a pot with visible beans, corn, and shredded chicken.
Simmer your way to comfort—this chicken enchilada soup is packed with rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

This easy soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s ready in just 30 minutes. With 14 ingredients, it’s simple to make and delicious.

So, let’s make this amazing Chicken Enchilada Soup. Your family will love it!

Key Takeaways

  • Serving size: 8 servings, great for families or gatherings.
  • Prep time: Only 10 minutes to get you started!
  • Cook time: A speedy 20 minutes for delicious results.
  • Utilizes 14 simple ingredients for maximal flavor with minimal fuss.
  • Saves well, with freezing longevity of up to 90 days.
  • Perfect for a cozy night in or serving guests with flair.
  • Flexibility in preparation with both stovetop and slow cooker methods.

Introduction to Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup

When it gets cold, you might want something warm and filling. Chicken enchilada soup is perfect for this. It combines the flavors of enchiladas into a cozy soup.

It’s quick to make, ready in just 30 minutes. You can cook it on the stove or in a slow cooker. This makes it easy for busy days.

This soup is full of tender chicken, tasty spices, and veggies. It’s great for a weeknight dinner. The cream cheese and shredded cheese make it rich. Black beans and corn add nutrition.

Chicken enchilada soup is a comfort food that’s easy to make. It shows that simple meals can bring the most joy.

Chicken enchilada soup simmering in a pot with visible beans, corn, and shredded chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchilada Soup

Finding reasons to love a dish often comes down to its flavors and filling nature. This Chicken Enchilada Soup is a perfect mix of tender chicken, black beans, corn, and spices in a creamy base. It’s a satisfying meal that tastes great.

Ingredients for chicken enchilada soup on a rustic kitchen counter, including chicken, beans, and spices.

This soup is great for families because you can change it to fit everyone’s taste. Add more chili powder or jalapeños for spice. Or, top it with cilantro, avocado, or tortilla strips for different flavors.

This recipe makes eight servings, perfect for meal prep or parties. It cooks in 20-25 minutes, so it’s quick and easy, even when you’re busy.

Nutrition InformationPer Serving (1 cup)
Calories234 kcal
Total Fat10g
Saturated Fat2g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol55mg
Sodium671mg
Carbohydrates15g
Fiber5g
Sugar3g
Protein23g

Enjoying this Chicken Enchilada Soup is comforting and fills everyone’s cravings. It’s easy to make and has plenty of servings. You’ll definitely want more.

What Makes This Soup Quick & Easy

This savory chicken enchilada soup is perfect for those who love flavor and efficiency. It’s made using the quick soup method, so you can have a tasty meal fast. It’s ready in under 20 minutes, great for busy weeknights.

For those who like to relax, the slow cooker is a great choice. You can prep everything ahead and let it cook for hours. This shows how the soup is easy to make but still full of flavor.

The recipe is simple, needing just 12 key ingredients. You can make a meal for six with little effort. Whether you go for the quick method or the slow cooker, this soup is a satisfying meal with minimal hassle.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup

To make a tasty chicken enchilada soup, pick the right ingredients. They add flavor and texture. Here’s what you need for that delicious taste.

Chicken and Flavorful Broth

Begin with cooked chicken, like boneless skinless chicken breasts. They make the soup tender. Mix it with low-sodium chicken broth for a rich base.

Use four to six cups of broth. This makes the soup hearty and full of flavor.

Vegetables That Add Depth

Adding a mix of vegetables boosts the flavor. Chop onions, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Garlic cloves give a strong smell.

Diced green chilies add heat. They make your soup special.

Connecting Ingredients: Cheese and Cream

Cheese and cream make the soup rich. Shredded cheddar melts well, making it creamy. Heavy cream adds luxury, balancing the spice.

How to Prepare Chicken Enchilada Soup on the Stovetop

Making Chicken Enchilada Soup on the stovetop is easy. It cooks fast, so you can enjoy it right away. Just follow these simple steps for a tasty dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a big pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add 1 cup of diced onion and cook until it’s soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Put in 2 lbs. of cooked, shredded chicken. Heat it up for 5 minutes.
  3. Now, add 4 cups of chicken broth, 14.5 ounces of diced tomatoes, 2 cups of frozen corn, 15 ounces of black beans (drained), and 4 ounces of diced green chilies to the pot.
  4. Then, mix in the red enchilada sauce (10 ounces), 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir well.
  5. Let the mix simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring now and then.
  6. Lastly, add 4 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Flavor

For the best taste in your Chicken Enchilada Soup, try these tips:

  • Check the soup’s taste before serving. Add salt or spice if it needs it.
  • Try different cheeses for a new flavor.
  • Top it with fresh cilantro, tortilla strips, sliced avocado, or sour cream for extra taste and texture.

This stovetop method is quick and easy. It makes a delicious soup ready in minutes. Enjoy every spoonful!

Slow Cooker Method for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Using a slow cooker for Chicken Enchilada Soup is super easy. It lets you relax while dinner cooks itself. Just mix chicken, beans, corn, and spices in the slow cooker. Cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 5 to 7 hours.

Prep time is just 5 minutes. So, you can have a warm meal ready when you get home. After cooking, add cream for a creamy touch. This way, you get a tasty meal and save time planning.

ParameterDetails
Recipe Yields8 servings
Preparation Time5 minutes
Cooking Time (High)3 to 4 hours
Cooking Time (Low)5 to 7 hours
Total Time3 hours and 5 minutes
Calories per Serving341 kcal
Protein per Serving27 g
Carbohydrates per Serving45 g
Fat per Serving7 g
Storage Duration (Refrigerator)Up to 5 days
Storage Duration (Freezer)Up to 6 months

This slow cooker method makes cooking easy for busy families. Just grab your slow cooker and enjoy homemade Chicken Enchilada Soup with little effort.

Storing and Freezing Your Chicken Enchilada Soup

After enjoying your delicious chicken enchilada soup, it’s important to store it right. This keeps the flavors good and makes sure it’s safe to eat.

Best Practices for Refrigeration

Let your soup cool down before putting it in airtight containers. It’s best to eat it within 2 to 3 days. Write the date on each container so you know how long it’s been there.

Think about how much soup you need to make reheating easier.

How to Freeze and Reheat Properly

Freezing your soup is a good choice if you want to eat it later. Put cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some room at the top for expansion.

This soup can stay frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw it, leave it in the fridge overnight.

To reheat, warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir it often to heat it evenly. This way, your soup stays tasty and ready to go anytime.

Customizations and Variations to Try

This chicken enchilada soup is easy to change up. You can pick ingredients that you like best. This way, you can make a soup that tastes just right to you.

Different Types of Chicken to Use

You can choose from many types of chicken. A rotisserie chicken is easy and tasty. Leftover chicken saves time. Or, you can use skinless chicken breasts for a leaner soup.

Alternative Beans and Vegetables

Try different beans and veggies to make the soup better. Pinto, kidney, or chickpeas are great choices. You can also add bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet corn for more flavor and nutrition.

Spice Levels and Additional Seasonings

Make the soup as spicy as you like. More chili powder or diced jalapenos can make it hotter. If you prefer it milder, use less spice or try sweet paprika. Lime juice and fresh cilantro can make it even better.

Customization TypeRecommended Options
Type of ChickenRotisserie, leftover cooked, skinless breasts
BeansPinto beans, black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas
VegetablesBell peppers, zucchini, sweet corn, spinach
Spice LevelChili powder, jalapenos, sweet paprika
SeasoningsLime juice, fresh cilantro, cumin

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Make your Chicken Enchilada Soup even better with some great serving ideas. Add toppings that look good and taste great. Try different side dishes and drinks to make your meal even better.

Ultimate Toppings for Extra Flavor

The right toppings can make your soup amazing. Here are some favorites:

  • Shredded cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well into the soup.
  • Sour cream: It adds a creamy touch that balances the spices.
  • Tortilla strips: They add a crunchy texture.
  • Hot sauce: For those who like a little heat.
  • Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled for a spicy kick.

Perfect Pairings: Sides and Drinks

Side DishesBeverages
Mexican riceMargaritas
Guacamole with tortilla chipsCoronita
Bean saladLemonade
Fresh corn on the cobHorchata

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Enchilada Soup

To make a great chicken enchilada soup, choose the best ingredients. Use cooking tips to make every bite full of flavor. Focus on the enchilada sauce and using leftover chicken well.

Choosing the Right Enchilada Sauce

The right enchilada sauce makes your soup special. Homemade sauce is fresher and has your touch. If you’re short on time, pick a good store brand with few preservatives.

Look for roasted chili flavors and the right spices. This ensures the sauce boosts the soup’s taste without overpowering it.

Using Leftover Chicken Efficiently

Using leftover chicken saves time and cuts down on waste. Shredded chicken from before can be the soup’s base. Just add it to the pot with your other ingredients.

This way, you can get creative with different seasonings or herbs. Changing the seasoning can give you new flavors every time.

IngredientPotential Benefits
Homemade Enchilada SauceFresher flavor and customizable spice levels
Leftover ChickenReduces preparation time and minimizes food waste
Quality IngredientsEnhances the overall taste and nutritional value

Why Homemade is Better Than Restaurant Versions

Homemade chicken enchilada soup has many advantages over restaurant versions. You get to choose the best ingredients without additives or preservatives. This is not always the case with restaurant meals.

At home, you can make soup that fits everyone’s diet. Want gluten-free or low sodium? It’s easy to adjust the recipe. Restaurants can’t always meet these specific needs.

Flavor is a big plus of making soup at home. You can adjust the spices and ingredients to your liking. Restaurants might tone down flavors to please more people. But at home, you can make it just right for you.

Homemade soup is also healthier. You can use fresh veggies and lean proteins. This makes it better for you than many restaurant dishes. You can add beans, greens, and quality chicken for extra nutrition.

In short, making chicken enchilada soup at home is a smart choice. It’s healthier and you can make it just the way you like it. So, think twice before going out to eat. Making it yourself can be more rewarding and delicious.

Conclusion

Chicken enchilada soup is more than a meal. It’s a warm and flavorful experience for any time. You can make it for a simple dinner or a big event. It’s easy to change up the ingredients and spices to fit your taste.

Starting your chicken enchilada soup journey is exciting. You can try different chickens, beans, and toppings. This makes the soup always new and interesting. Plus, it’s simple to make, even for beginners.

This soup is a must-have in your kitchen. It’s full of good ingredients and tastes amazing. So, why not make it for your next meal?

FAQ

How long does it take to make chicken enchilada soup?

You can make chicken enchilada soup in under 30 minutes on the stovetop. The slow cooker method is even easier. Just set it and forget it.

Can I customize the ingredients in the soup?

Yes! This recipe is very flexible. You can use different chicken, like rotisserie or leftover. Swap beans like pinto and add veggies you like or have on hand.

What are the best toppings for chicken enchilada soup?

Add flavor with shredded cheese, sour cream, or crispy tortilla strips. These toppings make your meal even better.

How should I store leftover chicken enchilada soup?

Cool the soup down before putting it in airtight containers. It’s best in the fridge for five days. Frozen soup stays good for three months.

What’s the best way to reheat chicken enchilada soup?

Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Make sure it’s hot before you serve it.

What type of enchilada sauce should I use?

Choose a good enchilada sauce for the best flavor. Homemade sauce is the best choice.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The slow cooker is great for making it ahead. Prep in the morning and have dinner ready when you get home.

Is chicken enchilada soup healthy?

Making it at home lets you control what goes in. It can be healthier than what you get at restaurants.

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