Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Thick, creamy, and easy-to-make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is wholesome and filling. Loaded with chicken and your favorite Tex-Mex ingredients, this soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a delightful side dish for gatherings. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich flavor that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile: Customize your soup with various toppings like avocado, cilantro, or extra cheese to match your taste.
• Hearty and Filling: With chicken, beans, and veggies, this soup is a complete meal in one bowl.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to streamline the preparation. Using the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving that creamy consistency.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Perfect for cooking the soup evenly without spillage.
• Hand blender: Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for a smooth texture without transferring hot liquid.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 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 and Broth

• 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

Garnishing

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

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Melt 1 tablespoon Butter or Ghee (add avocado oil if using) in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
Add:
– 1 Medium Onion (diced)
– 2 Celery Stalks (sliced)
– 1 Medium Carrot (thinly sliced)
– 1 Large Red Bell Pepper (diced)
– 2-3 Garlic Cloves (chopped)

Cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Broth

Stir in:
– 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, then lower the heat. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are very tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

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

Step 4: Add Beans and Chicken

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; boil for a couple of minutes to heat through.

Step 5: Serve

Pour into bowls and top with shredded cheese (1 Cup Mexican Shredded Cheese Blend divided into servings) or your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only delicious but also versatile in serving. You can enhance your dining experience with various toppings and sides that complement its rich flavors.

Add Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess and balances the spices.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado enhances texture and flavor.
• Lime Wedges – Squeezing lime juice over the soup brightens every bite.
• Crushed Tortilla Chips – For added crunch, sprinkle some tortilla chips on top.

Pair with Bread

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory soup.
• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Serve as a Meal

• Taco Salad – Use the soup as a base for a taco salad by adding lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
• Rice Bowls – Serve the soup over rice for a hearty meal option.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

To make your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup even better, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables provide better taste and nutrition than canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels – If you like it spicy, add more chili powder or jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Blend for Smoothness – Blending the soup until creamy ensures a luxurious texture.
• Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops richer flavors.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheese blends like pepper jack for added zest.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup’s richness well.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add protein and texture to your meal.
3. Guacamole – A fresh guacamole brings a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the soup.
4. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa provide a great appetizer before the main dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and cheese create a colorful side dish.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies give a smoky flavor that pairs well with the enchilada soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Bold Flavoring: Skipping or underestimating the spices can lead to a bland soup. Always measure and taste as you go.
• Bold Veggie Prep: Not chopping vegetables uniformly can result in uneven cooking. Dice everything to a similar size for consistent texture.
• Bold Chicken Choices: Using raw chicken instead of pre-cooked can increase cook time significantly. Ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded beforehand.
• Bold Liquid Ratios: Adding too much liquid may dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended broth amount for a creamy consistency.
• Bold Cheese Timing: Adding cheese too early can cause it to become overly gooey. Reserve it for topping just before serving for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely. Stir halfway through for even heating, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup.

What makes Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup creamy?

The creaminess comes from blending the soup after cooking, which incorporates the ingredients’ flavors while creating a smooth texture.

Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute beans based on your preference.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat, consider including diced jalapeños or an extra dash of chili powder during cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it great for busy weeknights.

Can I use different proteins in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or beef based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a hearty side dish. Customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients to make it truly your own!