Name: Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 0.5 teaspoon chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon mustard powder; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.25 teaspoon cumin; 1 pinch cinnamon; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large yellow onion (diced); 1 jalapeno 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; 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast ((or 2 small)); 4 oz. cream cheese (cubed and softened); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded); 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)

Introduction to Chicken Enchilada Soup

Why Chicken Enchilada Soup?

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, flavorful meal that’s both hearty and easy to whip up, look no further than Chicken Enchilada Soup! This delightful dish combines all the mouthwatering elements of traditional enchiladas—rich spices, tender chicken, and creamy cheese—into a warm bowl of goodness.

Imagine returning home after a long day, greeted by the comforting aroma of a simmering soup. You've got the perfect solution for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. The best part? It’s versatile! Whether you're cooking it on the stove or in a Crock Pot, you can tailor the recipe to fit your schedule. Don’t have chicken breast? Use chicken thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time!

Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like beans and veggies, making it a guilt-free indulgence. If you’re curious about how to make it a bit spicier, a dash of hot sauce will do the trick!

So, why not gather your ingredients and join me on this journey to creating the ultimate Chicken Enchilada Soup? Your taste buds will thank you for it!

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup

When it comes to making a delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup, having the right ingredients is essential for a rich and flavorful broth. Let's break it down!

Essential seasonings

Seasonings are the backbone of your soup's flavor. For this recipe, you'll need:

½ teaspoon chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for a well-rounded taste.
¼ teaspoon cumin adds warmth and depth.
For a unique twist, a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper provides an extra kick.

These spices not only enhance the soup's overall flavor but also make it comforting and irresistible.

Main soup ingredients

Now, let’s look at the main players in this hearty Chicken Enchilada Soup:

1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil for sautéing.
1 yellow onion and 1 jalapeño pepper, both diced, add essential aromatics.
Plenty of canned goodies like 10 oz. red enchilada sauce, 10 oz. diced tomatoes with green chilies, 15 oz. black beans, and 15 oz. canned whole kernel corn to bulk up the soup.
The heart of the recipe: 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast.

This combination results in a satisfying soup that's perfect for any weeknight dinner. Want tips on how to make it even better? Check out my other recipes!

Preparing Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making a comforting bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only an enjoyable culinary adventure but also a surefire way to impress your friends or family with your kitchen skills. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to whip up this delicious dish!

Gather your ingredients

Let’s kick things off by collecting all the ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful soup. Here’s what you'll need:

Seasonings: chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
Soup base: butter, olive oil, diced onion, jalapeño pepper, minced garlic, red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, hot sauce (if you want a kick), chicken broth, boneless chicken breast, cream cheese, and shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack).

Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free, plus you’ll feel like a culinary pro!

Sauté the base flavors

Start by heating a tablespoon each of butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once the mixture is sizzling, toss in your diced yellow onion and jalapeño. Sauté these for about four minutes, allowing their natural flavors to emerge and the onions to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The aroma will be absolutely mouthwatering!

Add chicken and remaining ingredients

Now, you'll want to get that chicken in. Pat your chicken breast dry and give it a sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. Place it in the pot, then pour in all the remaining ingredients except for the cream cheese and shredded cheese. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Avoid a rapid boil, as this can toughen the chicken. Let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Shred the chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the pot. It’s a great way to incorporate the flavors of the soup while creating perfectly tender bits of chicken. If you’re short on time, feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken instead — it’s a fantastic shortcut!

Stir in the creamy goodness

Reduce the heat to low. Now for that creamy goodness! Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s melted and well combined. Then, add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, mixing until it’s all melted and gooey. Can you imagine the rich, creamy texture this adds to your Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Taste the soup, and adjust any seasonings if needed. Ready to serve? Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious soup! Check out this guide on how to make soups for additional tips and variations.

By following these easy steps, you'll create a heartwarming dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or any gathering. Enjoy!

Variations on Chicken Enchilada Soup

Spicy Chicken Enchilada Soup

For those who crave a fiery kick, a spicy chicken enchilada soup variation is a must-try. Start by adding extra diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce directly in the pot. Want even more heat? Consider incorporating chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor. You can also replace some of the black beans with spicy chorizo, making each spoonful a delightful explosion of flavors that can be paired perfectly with a refreshing avocado lime salad.

Vegetarian Chicken Enchilada Soup

If you’re looking for a meat-free option, a vegetarian chicken enchilada soup is both satisfying and full of flavor. Swap the chicken for protein-rich alternatives like textured vegetable protein (TVP), chickpeas, or even lentils. Use a vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to maintain that rich base, and add extra veggies, such as bell peppers and zucchini, for texture and nutrition. You can still enjoy that creamy goodness by substituting cream cheese with cashew cream or a vegan cheese product.

Experimenting with these variations allows you to enjoy the comfort of chicken enchilada soup while catering to different tastes and preferences. Want more variations? Check out other enchilada-inspired recipes here!

Cooking tips and notes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Cream cheese tips

To get the best texture in your Chicken Enchilada Soup, it's essential to soften the cream cheese properly. A quick trick? Heat 2 cups of water in the microwave, then place your cubed cream cheese inside for about 5 minutes to achieve that creamy consistency. When adding the cream cheese, make sure your soup base isn't too hot; otherwise, it may become grainy. For an extra kick, consider using spicy cheese varieties like Hot Habanero.

Chicken cooking options

You have flexibility with your chicken choice! For a juicy, flavorful soup, let bone-in chicken thighs simmer gently for a longer cooking time. If you're short on time, rotisserie or leftover chicken is a fantastic alternative—just toss in about 2 cups and let the flavors meld. If using raw chicken, ensure it's fully cooked through before shredding and returning it to the pot. Every method will result in a deliciously hearty soup!

For more chicken cooking techniques, check out this guide on chicken preparation.

Serving suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Toppings to elevate your soup

To transform your Chicken Enchilada Soup into a culinary masterpiece, consider adding a swirl of sour cream for creaminess, fresh cilantro for brightness, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick. Shredded lettuce adds a refreshing crunch, while diced avocado provides a rich, buttery texture. Don’t forget some sliced jalapeños if you’re craving extra heat!

Pairing suggestions

Pair your Chicken Enchilada Soup with warm, crusty bread or homemade tortilla chips to soak up every delicious drop. A light salad with avocado and black beans can balance the hearty soup. Looking for something refreshing? A chilled fruit salsa or mango salad makes for a delightful contrast!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Preparation Time

Getting started with your Chicken Enchilada Soup is a breeze! Set aside just 10 minutes for prep. This includes gathering your ingredients and making sure everything is ready to go.

Cooking Time

The real magic happens while your soup simmers. It takes about 35 minutes to cook, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and creating a rich, comforting dish.

Total Time

In just 45 minutes, you'll have a hearty and delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup ready to enjoy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week!

If you’re eager to dive into this recipe, feel free to check out more detailed cooking tips on Taste of Home or get inspired with variations on Allrecipes!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Enchilada Soup

When enjoying a warm bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup, it’s great to know what you’re putting in your body. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values:

Calories: Each serving contains approximately 242 calories, making it a hearty yet light meal.
Protein: Packed with 27 grams of protein, this soup supports muscle health and keeps you feeling satisfied.
Sodium: Keep an eye on your sodium intake; there are about 727 milligrams per serving, influenced primarily by the enchilada sauce and broth.

Whether you're prepping for a busy week or indulging in a cozy evening meal, this soup offers both nourishment and flavor. For more detailed insights on health and nutrition, consider checking out Nutrition.gov and The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

FAQs about Chicken Enchilada Soup

Can I use other proteins?

Absolutely! While this Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe calls for chicken, you can easily swap it out for other proteins. Feel free to try turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins like tofu for a vegetarian option. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked properly.

How do I store leftover soup?

Storing your leftover Chicken Enchilada Soup is a breeze! Allow it to cool at room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; in that case, just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, making this Chicken Enchilada Soup in advance is a great idea! You can prepare it a day ahead and let the flavors meld in the fridge. If you’re planning to freeze it, cook the soup without the cream cheese and shredded cheese. Add those ingredients when you reheat the soup for that creamy finish. For more tips on meal prep, check out this guide.

Conclusion on Chicken Enchilada Soup

In summary, this Chicken Enchilada Soup offers a perfect blend of warmth and flavor, making it easy to whip up on busy weeknights. With customizable ingredients and options for both stove top and Crock Pot preparation, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy pairing it with your favorite toppings!