Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Thick, creamy, and easy-to-make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish, this soup is loaded with tender chicken and vibrant Tex-Mex ingredients. Its unique qualities make it a favorite for families and gatherings alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick dinner.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich chicken, it’s both filling and healthy.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of spices, tomatoes, and beans creates a rich flavor profile that enchilada lovers will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or pair it with your favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for easy meals on demand.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Hand blender (or regular blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients without overflowing.
• Hand blender: This tool helps achieve the desired creamy texture without transferring hot soup to another container.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Vegetables

• 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)

Spices & Seasonings

• 1½ teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano

Canned Goods & Broth

• 15 ounces Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes (1 can)
• ¼ Cup Tomato Paste
• 4 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth

Beans & Corn

• 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

Protein & Toppings

• 2 Cups Shredded Cooked Chicken
• 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 the 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 the Spices and Liquid Ingredients

Stir in the seasonings:
– 1½ teaspoon Ground Cumin,
– 1 tablespoon Chili Powder,
– 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano,
– 15 ounces Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes,
– ¼ Cup Tomato Paste,
– 4 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Lower the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are very tender.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Remove from heat. Using a hand blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Place back over medium heat.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add:
– 14.5 ounces Red Kidney Beans,
– 14.5 ounces Black Beans,
– 1 Cup Fresh or Frozen Sweet Corn,
– 2 Cups Shredded Cooked Chicken.
Stir to combine and boil for a couple of minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Pour into bowls and top with shredded cheese or your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is as delightful as preparing it. This soup can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Avocado Slices

• Fresh avocado slices add a creamy texture and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices in the soup.

Crushed Tortilla Chips

• Sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s creaminess.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt creates a cooling contrast to the warmth of the soup, enriching each bite.

Fresh Cilantro

• Garnishing with chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Shredded Cheese

• Top each bowl with additional shredded cheese, like a Mexican blend, which melts deliciously into the hot soup for extra creaminess.

Lime Wedges

• Serving lime wedges on the side gives your guests the option to squeeze fresh lime juice for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Achieving the perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup requires attention to detail. Use these tips to make your soup even better.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and chicken enhance flavor and texture compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust spice levels: Tailor the amount of chili powder and cumin based on your heat preference for a customized taste.
• Blend carefully: If you prefer chunks in your soup, blend only half of it for a smoother texture while retaining some vegetable pieces.
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for an extra 5-10 minutes can deepen flavors and ensure veggies are tender.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like pickled jalapeños or diced red onions for added flavor and variety.
• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices makes a great complement to the bold flavors of the soup.

2. Cornbread Muffins
   Slightly sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup and are perfect for dipping.

3. Chips and Salsa
   A classic combination, crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide crunch and zest alongside your warm soup.

4. Grilled Veggies
   Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or corn add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the enchilada soup.

5. Garden Salad
   A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers freshness that balances the richness of the soup nicely.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice make a hearty side that complements the Tex-Mex theme beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can be simple, but there are a few mistakes that can impact the end result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking your vegetables first can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté onions, garlic, and peppers until soft for maximum flavor.
• Overlooking seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can make it taste flat. Use salt and pepper generously, and don’t forget to add spices like cumin and chili powder.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality chicken broth can ruin the taste of your soup. Opt for low sodium, high-quality broth for the best results.
• Not blending enough: If you don’t blend the soup enough, it may not achieve that creamy texture. Blend until smooth for a rich consistency.
• Ignoring leftovers: Letting leftover soup sit in the fridge too long can diminish its flavor and texture. Store it properly and consume within a few days.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. This keeps it from drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup:

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen cooked chicken; just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup.

How do I make this soup spicier?

To add more heat, include diced jalapeños or extra chili powder when cooking.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap beans or add more vegetables according to your preference.

What toppings go well with Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Consider adding avocado slices, cilantro, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors make it versatile; you can customize it with various toppings or add-ins. Try this recipe for a delicious weeknight dinner that your family will love!