Easy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Introduction and Quick Summary

Have you ever craved a dish that warms your soul while tantalizing your taste buds? Chicken Enchilada Soup delivers just that. This hearty and comforting soup blends the rich flavors of traditional enchiladas with a creamy broth that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. The aromatic spices combined with tender chicken create an irresistible symphony of flavors.

This delightful dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it brings people together around the table. Imagine serving this savory soup topped with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips—the perfect touch to elevate your meal. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, this Chicken Enchilada Soup promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Quick and Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of spices, creamy broth, and tender chicken creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste—add beans, corn, or even different proteins for variety.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal option for meal prep lovers looking for quick lunches or dinners.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; they should be fresh or thawed if frozen for best results.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; finely chop it before adding to the soup.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; use about three cloves minced for optimal taste.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while ensuring rich flavor; approximately four cups will suffice.
• Canned Tomatoes: Use one can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for added spice and freshness—this makes a significant difference in flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Enchilada Sauce: One can of enchilada sauce gives this dish its signature taste; choose mild or spicy based on preference.

For Garnishing:

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop some leaves roughly before serving as a garnish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken breasts. In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides—about five minutes per side. Remove from the pot and shred once cooled.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent—around three minutes—stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and enchilada sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Then reduce heat and let it simmer for about ten minutes so all flavors can meld together.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add salt or pepper depending on your preference.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips for added crunch. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken; just shred it and add it directly into your soup.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like corn or bell peppers to enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

Mistakes to avoid

When preparing Chicken Enchilada Soup, avoid using pre-cooked or overcooked chicken, as it can become tough and dry in the final dish. Instead, cook the chicken in the soup to allow it to absorb the flavors fully. Another common mistake is not properly seasoning the soup. Ensure you taste and adjust the seasoning as it cooks, adding salt, pepper, or spices like cumin and chili powder to enhance the depth of flavor.

Additionally, skipping fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, or avocado as toppings can leave the soup feeling incomplete. These garnishes add brightness and texture that balance the richness of the dish. Lastly, avoid over-thickening the soup with too much cream or cheese, as it can overpower the other flavors. Aim for a smooth, balanced consistency that lets the smoky, spicy, and savory notes of the soup shine through.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside fresh, crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
• Avocado Slices: Adding creamy avocado slices on top of your soup enhances the flavor and provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness.
• Shredded Cheese: Top your bowl with shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for an extra layer of richness and deliciousness.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Chicken Enchilada Soup?

To make a delightful Chicken Enchilada Soup, you will need several key ingredients. Start with cooked chicken, which can be shredded or diced. You will also need enchilada sauce, chicken broth, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and spices such as cumin and chili powder. Don’t forget fresh onions and garlic to enhance the flavor. Topping options include sour cream, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Can I make Chicken Enchilada Soup in advance?

Absolutely. Making Chicken Enchilada Soup in advance is a great idea. The flavors develop even more after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Prepare your soup as directed but hold off on adding any toppings until you’re ready to serve. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Is Chicken Enchilada Soup suitable for freezes?

Yes, this Chicken Enchilada Soup freezes beautifully. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. This makes it a perfect meal prep option.

How can I make Chicken Enchilada Soup vegetarian?

Transforming this Chicken Enchilada Soup into a vegetarian dish is easy. Simply substitute the chicken with beans or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. You can still use enchilada sauce and all other ingredients to maintain that delicious taste while keeping it meat-free.

Conclusion for Chicken Enchilada Soup

In summary, Chicken Enchilada Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients like cooked chicken, beans, and spices, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable for various dietary preferences. Serving suggestions like crispy tortilla chips or fresh avocado elevate this delicious soup further. Whether made in advance or frozen for later use, this comforting meal promises satisfaction every time you enjoy it. Try making this delightful soup today; you won’t be disappointed.

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Chicken Enchilada Soup

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Chicken Enchilada Soup is the ultimate comfort food that captures the rich, zesty essence of traditional enchiladas in a creamy, soul-warming bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make dish brings friends and family together around the table. In just 30 minutes, you’ll savor a satisfying soup topped with fresh cilantro and crunchy tortilla strips, creating an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart. This versatile recipe allows for customization—feel free to add beans, corn, or swap in different proteins to suit your preferences.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can enchilada sauce (mild or spicy)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnishing)

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Instructions

1. Cook chicken breasts in a large pot with olive oil until golden brown on both sides; remove and shred.
2. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in the same pot until translucent.
3. Return shredded chicken to the pot and add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and enchilada sauce; stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg