Welcome, food lovers! If you’re a fan of hearty and spicy dishes, then this Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe is just what you need. Packed with bold flavors, this soup is a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that making this soup is as satisfying as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how you can bring this comforting meal to your dinner table!
Introduction
Chicken Enchilada Soup is a flavorful dish inspired by the classic enchiladas, but in a warm and comforting soup form. This recipe brings together the rich, zesty flavors of enchilada sauce, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, making it a go-to meal for chilly evenings or casual family dinners. Not only is it easy to make, but it also allows for various customization options depending on your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or prefer a milder version, this soup can easily be tailored to suit your needs.
You’ll love how this dish captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine while offering a comforting, soul-warming meal. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like black beans and tomatoes, making it both flavorful and healthy.
Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup. Feel free to make substitutions based on what you have available or to cater to dietary needs:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (optional but recommended):
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Avocado slices
- Lime wedges
- Crispy tortilla strips
Substitution Tip: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply swap out the chicken for extra beans or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth Next, add the chicken breasts (whole), black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Simmer Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Once shredded, return the chicken to the pot and stir well.
Step 5: Serve Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and crispy tortilla strips.
Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top right before serving!
Helpful Tips for Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While canned ingredients work well for convenience, using fresh tomatoes or corn can elevate the flavor of the soup.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder or throwing in some chopped jalapeños if you like it extra spicy.
- Consistency Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth or add a slurry of cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Best Cooking Techniques: Browning the chicken before simmering can add an extra layer of flavor. Consider searing the chicken breasts in the pot before adding the other ingredients.
- Equipment Hacks: A slow cooker can be used for this recipe. Simply add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
- Storage Tip: If making this soup ahead of time, store the toppings separately to keep them fresh.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup
This Chicken Enchilada Soup pairs beautifully with:
- Cornbread or tortilla chips for some crunch.
- A light green salad to balance out the richness of the soup.
- A refreshing margarita or iced tea to complement the spicy flavors.
For a full Mexican-inspired meal, consider serving with homemade guacamole and chips as a starter.
Nutritional Information
This Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only delicious but also packs a healthy punch.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 21g
- Fiber: 7g
- Vitamin C: 12% DV
Healthy Tip: For a lighter version, skip the cheese and sour cream, and opt for more avocado and cilantro as your toppings.
Storage and Leftovers for Chicken Enchilada Soup
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this soup stores wonderfully!
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the soup without the toppings for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a bit of broth if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes! Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Absolutely! If you have rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, you can add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian? Simply replace the chicken with extra beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- What can I serve with Chicken Enchilada Soup? Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad make excellent side dishes.
Related Recipes for Chicken Lovers
Check out these delicious recipes from Optimal Recipes:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy & Tasty
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me in making this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup! Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy weeknight meal or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Be sure to try it out, and don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any personal variations you’ve made.
Happy cooking!
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Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe | Easy, Hearty, and Flavorful
Description
Welcome, food lovers! If you’re a fan of hearty and spicy dishes, then this Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe is just what you need. Packed with bold flavors, this soup is a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that making this soup is as satisfying as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how you can bring this comforting meal to your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (optional but recommended):
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Avocado slices
- Lime wedges
- Crispy tortilla strips
Substitution Tip: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply swap out the chicken for extra beans or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth Next, add the chicken breasts (whole), black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Simmer Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Once shredded, return the chicken to the pot and stir well.
Step 5: Serve Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and crispy tortilla strips.
Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top right before serving!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: While canned ingredients work well for convenience, using fresh tomatoes or corn can elevate the flavor of the soup.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder or throwing in some chopped jalapeños if you like it extra spicy.
- Consistency Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth or add a slurry of cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking.
