Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Thick and creamy, this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful blend of savory flavors that warms the heart. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a comforting side dish. Loaded with tender chicken and vibrant Tex-Mex ingredients, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this soup comes together quickly for busy nights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich and delicious flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with tortillas, rice, or your favorite toppings for added texture.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup offers a wholesome meal option.
• Freezable Option: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can elevate your soup-making process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Hand blender
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Perfect for making large batches of soup while ensuring even heating.
• Hand blender: Allows you to easily blend the soup to a creamy consistency without transferring it to another container.

Ingredients

For this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 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)
• 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
• 14.5 ounces Red Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed, 1 can)
• 14.5 ounces Black Beans (drained and rinsed, 1 can)
• 1 Cup Fresh or Frozen Sweet Corn
• 2 Cups Shredded Cooked Chicken
• 1 Cup Mexican Shredded Cheese Blend (for garnishing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter or Ghee

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, sliced celery, thinly sliced carrot, diced bell pepper, and chopped garlic. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5–6 minutes.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and low sodium chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 10–15 minutes until veggies are tender.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Remove from heat and use a hand blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Return the pot to medium heat.

Step 5: Incorporate Beans and Chicken

Add in red kidney beans, black beans, sweet corn, and shredded cooked chicken. Stir well to combine and let it boil for a couple of minutes just to warm everything through.

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Toppings

• Avocado slices – Add creamy texture and a fresh flavor.
• Chopped cilantro – Sprinkle on top for a burst of herbal freshness.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A dollop adds creaminess and tang.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up flavors.
• Cornbread muffins – Sweet and savory, they complement the spicy notes of the soup.

As a Meal Base

• Over rice or quinoa – Serve the soup over cooked grains for added heartiness.
• With tortilla chips – Crunchy chips add texture and make for a fun scoopable experience.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making the perfect creamy chicken enchilada soup is all about attention to detail. Here are tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh vegetables – Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust spice levels – Feel free to add more chili powder or cumin for extra heat.
• Blend fully for creaminess – Ensure no chunks remain for that smooth texture.
• Let it simmer longer – Allowing the soup to simmer enhances flavors as they meld together.
• Taste as you go – Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with spices complements the soup beautifully.
2. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds a rich texture and flavor contrast.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with grains and veggies make a hearty side.
4. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine with tangy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
5. Chips and Salsa – A classic combination that brings crunch and zest to your meal.
6. Zucchini Fritters – Lightly fried fritters offer crunch and are a great veggie addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Always choose fresh and high-quality ingredients. This can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Overcooking vegetables: Be cautious not to cook the vegetables too long before blending. They should be tender but still retain some texture for the best results.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. A little extra salt or spice can elevate the dish.
• Using low-quality broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the saltiness. Homemade broth is even better if you have time!
• Neglecting toppings: Don’t forget about garnishes! Adding toppings like cheese, avocado, or fresh cilantro can add layers of flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stir occasionally, and heat until warmed through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup that may help clarify your cooking process.

What makes this soup creamy?

The creaminess comes from blending the soup after cooking, which incorporates all the ingredients into a smooth texture while retaining richness from the cheese used as a topping.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute shredded turkey or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils for a different spin on this recipe.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as zucchini or spinach. You can also adjust spices to match your heat preference!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!