Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Thick, creamy, and filled with flavor, Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, this soup is sure to satisfy. With tender chicken and vibrant Tex-Mex ingredients, it combines heartiness and warmth in every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Wholesome: Packed with spices and fresh vegetables, every spoonful bursts with deliciousness.
• Versatile Topping Options: Customize your soup with your favorite garnishes like avocado, cilantro, or extra cheese.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for a few days or freeze for later.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Hand blender
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: This pot allows you to cook all the ingredients together efficiently while providing enough space to simmer the soup.
• Hand blender: This tool makes blending the soup easy, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture without transferring to a blender.

Ingredients

For this delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Butter or Ghee (or Ghee, avocado oil also works)
• 1 Medium Onion (diced)
• 2 Celery Stalks (sliced)
• 1 Medium Carrot (thinly sliced)
• 1 Large Red Bell Pepper (diced)
• 2-3 Garlic Cloves (chopped)

Seasonings and Liquids

• 1½ teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 15 ounces Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes (1 can)
• ¼ Cup Tomato Paste
• 4 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth

Beans and Chicken

• 14.5 ounces Red Kidney Beans (drain and rinsed, 1 can)
• 14.5 ounces Black Beans (drain and rinsed, 1 can)
• 1 Cup Fresh or Frozen Sweet Corn
• 2 Cups Shredded Cooked Chicken

Toppings

• 1 Cup Mexican Shredded Cheese Blend (for garnishing)
• Salt and pepper, to your taste

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt 1 tablespoon Butter or Ghee in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
– Add diced onion, sliced celery, thinly sliced carrot, diced red bell pepper, and chopped garlic.
– Cook until softened for about 5-6 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Stir in the seasonings:
– Add ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and low sodium chicken broth.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Bring to a boil then lower the heat to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until veggies are very tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Remove from heat. Using a hand blender:
– Blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
– Return it to medium heat.

Step 4: Add Beans and Chicken

Add the beans and corn:
– Stir in red kidney beans, black beans, sweet corn, and shredded cooked chicken.
– Mix well to combine. Boil for an additional couple of minutes just to heat everything through.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Pour into bowls:
– Top each serving with shredded cheese or your favorite toppings.
– Enjoy your flavorful Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dish.

Toppings

• Avocado Slices – Add creamy avocado for a rich texture.
• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – A dollop adds creaminess and tang.
• Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice for a zesty kick.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet contrast.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping or topping.
• Rice – Offer seasoned rice as a hearty side that complements the soup.

Garnishes

• Shredded Cheese – Top with extra Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
• Jalapeños – For spice lovers, sliced jalapeños make a great garnish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

To achieve the best version of your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste and nutrition.
• Adjust Consistency – If you prefer a thicker soup, blend longer or add less broth.
• Season Generously – Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust spices as needed.
• Add More Protein – Incorporate beans or additional chicken for extra heartiness.
• Make Ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day; allow flavors to meld overnight.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing sides with your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can make it a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Guacamole – Creamy and flavorful, guacamole pairs perfectly with the soup.
2. Mexican Rice – Seasoned rice adds another layer of flavor and texture.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted veggies complements the soup’s richness.
4. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
5. Chili Lime Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with chili lime makes for a refreshing side.
6. Caesar Salad (without anchovies) – Crisp romaine tossed in creamy dressing balances the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sofrito: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Take time to soften the onion, celery, and bell pepper for great flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: If you add raw chicken directly, it may not cook evenly. Use pre-cooked chicken for a quicker and better texture.
• Ignoring Seasonings: Forgetting to season the broth can result in a dull taste. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Not Blending Enough: If you don’t blend the soup thoroughly, it may be too chunky. Ensure a smooth consistency for creaminess.
• Using Regular Broth: Regular sodium broth can be too salty. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for balanced flavor.
• Skipping Toppings: Neglecting garnishes like cheese or fresh herbs misses an opportunity for added flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure the soup cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through, usually about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup:

Can I make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute with turkey or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

How spicy is Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The spiciness depends on how much chili powder you use. You can adjust it according to your preference.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include zucchini, spinach, or any other favorite veggies to boost nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is both comforting and versatile. Perfect as an easy weeknight meal or as part of a gathering, this recipe allows room for customization based on your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or additional ingredients. Enjoy making this delicious dish!