Why You’ll Love It
If you’re craving bold flavors and cozy comfort, our Chicken Enchilada Soup delivers it all. It blends the zesty kick of enchilada spices with creamy, hearty ingredients for a satisfying bowl perfect any day of the week. Plus, it’s quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for dinner after a busy day.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (substitute with avocado oil for a neutral flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced (red onion works too)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cups chicken broth (use low sodium if preferred)
- 1 cup salsa verde (can swap for red enchilada sauce for different flavor)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained (frozen corn is a fresh alternative)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (can substitute with Greek yogurt for tang and creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack for mild creaminess)
- Tortilla chips, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the pot. Stir and cook for 1 minute, releasing the spices’ aroma.
- Pour in chicken broth and salsa verde. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add black beans, corn, and shredded chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Turn off heat. Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese until the soup becomes creamy and cheese melts completely.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with tortilla chips, avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve warm.
Looking for more quick dinners? Check out Easy Weeknight Dinners for fast and delicious meal ideas. For extra inspiration on soups, visit Food Network.
Expert Tips
For the best Chicken Enchilada Soup, use freshly shredded chicken from a roast or rotisserie to keep the meat juicy. If you like it spicier, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. To thicken the soup, let it simmer uncovered a little longer. Make-ahead tip: this soup keeps well in the fridge for 3 days and generally tastes better the next day.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze soup in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace chicken with jackfruit or chickpeas, use vegetable broth, and swap sour cream with a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all canned ingredients and broth are gluten-free certified; tortillas served on the side should be corn-based and gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and sour cream or use plant-based substitutes.
- Low Carb: Reduce corn and beans, then add extra veggies like zucchini or cauliflower rice for volume.
FAQ
- What makes this a Chicken Enchilada Soup?
- The combination of enchilada spices, salsa verde, and creamy cheese with shredded chicken creates the signature enchilada flavor in soup form.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes! Combine all ingredients except cheese and sour cream in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cheese and sour cream just before serving.
- How can I make Chicken Enchilada Soup spicier?
- Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to taste.
- Is this soup freezer-friendly?
- Absolutely. Store leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly and add fresh toppings when ready to serve.
- What’s a good side dish with this soup?
- A fresh green salad or simple Mexican street corn complements the soup well.
Call to Action
Ready to warm up your dinner routine? Try this Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe and let us know how you liked it! Leave a comment below, share your tips, or rate the recipe to help others enjoy this easy and creamy favorite. Don’t forget to save it for your next cozy meal!
