Chicken Enchilada Soup

Indulge in the delightful warmth of Chicken Enchilada Soup, a dish that brings together spicy and savory elements perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner, preparing for game day, or simply craving comfort food on a chilly night, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich flavors and customizable toppings, it stands out as a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: Each spoonful offers a burst of spices and wholesome ingredients that your taste buds will love.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with various toppings like cheese, avocado, and cilantro to suit everyone’s preferences.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with protein and fiber from chicken and beans, it’s a wholesome meal option.
• Easily Scalable: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for one, this recipe can be adjusted to fit your needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A good-sized pot allows even cooking of all ingredients without spilling over.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

Indulge in the hearty, flavorful embrace of Chicken Enchilada Soup, a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and comforting ingredients, topped with your favorite garnishes for a customizable feast.

For the Soup:

• 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

For Toppings:

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Chopped cilantro
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges
• Crispy tortilla strips

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth

Add whole chicken breasts along with black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it back into the soup.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and crispy tortilla strips for added texture.

Enjoy creating this delightful Chicken Enchilada Soup! Each bowl is not only filling but also offers an explosion of flavors that everyone will love.

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Chicken Enchilada Soup is all about customization and presentation. This dish is versatile and can be tailored to suit any palate with a variety of toppings and side options.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, adds creaminess and flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spiciness and gives a rich texture.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s heat while providing healthy fats.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Crispy Tortilla Strips: These add crunch and texture, making every spoonful exciting.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the soup’s savory flavors.

How to Perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup

To make your Chicken Enchilada Soup even better, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Tailor the chili powder and cumin to your heat preference; add more or less as needed.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to substitute chicken with shredded beef or beans for a vegetarian option.
• Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to try different garnishes like jalapeños or diced green onions for added flair.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Enchilada Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup’s bold flavors perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty addition that pairs well with enchiladas.
3. Salad Verde: A light salad with avocado, tomatoes, and lime vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites.
4. Guacamole: Rich guacamole enhances the overall taste profile and adds creaminess.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn contrasts nicely with the spicy soup; drizzle with lime and chili powder for extra zest.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese make for an irresistible side that kids love!
7. Chips and Salsa: A classic combination that adds crunch and freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Enchilada Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the onions and garlic can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take a moment to cook these ingredients first.
• Using Unseasoned Chicken: If you skip seasoning the chicken, your soup may taste bland. Make sure to season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not Shredding Properly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can ruin the texture. Shred the chicken well after cooking for even distribution in the soup.
• Overcooking Ingredients: Overcooking can make your vegetables mushy. Keep an eye on your simmer time to retain their texture.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping toppings like cheese or cilantro makes the soup less enjoyable. Add garnishes for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Enchilada Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low-medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Chicken Enchilada Soup is a hearty dish made with chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, often topped with cheese and other garnishes.

How do I customize my Chicken Enchilada Soup?

You can customize your soup by adding different beans, vegetables, or spice levels according to your taste preferences.

Can I make Chicken Enchilada Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to serve.

Is Chicken Enchilada Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans and corn, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

How long does it take to make Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The total time for making this soup is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. With its comforting warmth and customizable toppings, it’s a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Try it out today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chicken Enchilada Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty spices into a warm bowl of goodness. Perfect for any occasion, this soup is not only quick to prepare but also easily customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends for game day, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every spoonful. Serve it with crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
2. Stir in whole chicken breasts, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks before returning it to the pot.
5. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg