Chicken Enchilada Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, then this Chicken Enchilada Soup is just what you need. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that come together in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Trust me, once you make this easy Chicken Enchilada Soup, it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

This soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, it’s sure to impress—and it’s ready in less than an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors and textures, this soup appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a warm hug in a bowl!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. This Chicken Enchilada Soup is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor!

For the Soup Base

• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• 1 pinch cinnamon
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (diced with seeds removed)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 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

For the Chicken

• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (or 2 small)

For Creamy Goodness

• 4 oz. cream cheese (cubed and softened)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Enchilada Soup is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey if that’s what you have on hand.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicier: If you like heat, don’t shy away from adding extra jalapeños or even some diced chipotle peppers.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute the cream cheese and cheeses with plant-based alternatives for a lighter version.

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Prep Work

Start by combining all your seasonings in a small bowl and setting them aside. This little step helps to ensure everything is ready when you’re cooking! Don’t forget to take out your cream cheese so it can soften while you work—this way, it will blend smoothly into your soup later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil. Add in the diced onions and jalapeño peppers, sautéing them until they soften—about four minutes. Then toss in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, around one minute more. Sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and sets a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper before adding it to the pot along with all remaining ingredients—except for the cream cheese and shredded cheeses. Bringing this mixture to a gentle boil allows the chicken to cook through slowly; this keeps it tender rather than tough.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

After about 15-20 minutes of simmering, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it back into the soup. This step ensures that every spoonful has delicious chicken throughout!

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Now it’s time to reduce the heat to low! Stir in that softened cream cheese until it’s fully combined into your soup—it adds such a wonderful richness! Then follow up by mixing in your cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted. A cheesy finish makes this dish delightful!

Step 6: Taste & Serve!

Finally, give your soup a taste test! Adjust any seasonings as needed before serving up this comforting bowl of goodness. Enjoy each warm spoonful of your homemade Chicken Enchilada Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making the perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping vegetables and measuring seasonings in advance can save you time during cooking and help the flavors meld beautifully.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh onions, garlic, and peppers. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor profile of your soup and make it even more comforting.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less jalapeño or omit the cayenne pepper. You can always add more later to customize the heat to your preference!
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Grating cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents. This will give your soup that nice, creamy texture.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer after adding the cream cheese and cheddar helps the flavors blend together beautifully. Patience really does pay off here!

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Chicken Enchilada Soup is just as important as making it! With a few simple touches, you can elevate this hearty dish into a beautiful meal for family or friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top gives a creamy contrast to the spiciness of the soup and makes every bite more indulgent.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating brings a zesty twist that enhances all the flavors in the soup.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and savory bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover broth while adding a comforting touch to your meal.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a delightful texture contrast. Serve them on the side for dipping or crumbling on top!
• Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced avocado, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice complements the warm soup perfectly.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cumin and cilantro makes a great accompaniment, soaking up flavors from the rich enchilada soup.

With these ideas in mind, you’re well on your way to serving an unforgettable Chicken Enchilada Soup that everyone will love! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal dish to whip up in advance! It can save you time during busy weekdays while still providing a hearty and delicious meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best results, keep the cheese separate if you plan on reheating portions later.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container to allow for expansion as it freezes.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also use a microwave; just make sure to cover the bowl loosely and stir halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about Chicken Enchilada Soup!

Can I use cooked chicken in my Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, simply shred it and add it to the pot during step 4. This will reduce your cooking time significantly!

How can I make my Chicken Enchilada Soup spicier?

To amp up the heat, consider adding more jalapenos or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different types of chili powder for varied flavors!

What can I serve with Chicken Enchilada Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a side salad. You could also top it with additional cheese or fresh cilantro for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Chicken Enchilada Soup as much as I do! It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and warmth that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or looking for a cozy dinner option, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to give it a try!