Chicken Enchilada Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this hearty Chicken Enchilada Soup that combines savory chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and a medley of vegetables for a comforting meal any day of the week. Topped with cheese, avocado, and crunchy tortilla strips, this soup is a delicious twist on traditional enchiladas, making it a perfect choice for taco night or a cozy family dinner.
This Chicken Enchilada Soup is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling. It's not only easy to make, but it's also a crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Chicken Enchilada Soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering, preparing a cozy family meal, or needing a quick weeknight dinner, this soup fits the bill. Its rich flavors and comforting warmth will impress family and friends alike, ensuring there are no leftovers.
The soup's delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and colorful vegetables creates a satisfying dish that can stand alone or be paired with your favorite sides. You can even serve it in bread bowls for a fun twist that adds an element of excitement to your meal presentation.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the greatest aspects of this Chicken Enchilada Soup is its adaptability. Feel free to modify the ingredients based on your personal preferences or dietary requirements. Swap the chicken for turkey or a plant-based alternative like jackfruit or tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also include additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the nutritional profile.
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor. This recipe encourages creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment with various toppings such as sour cream, lime wedges, or even pickled red onions for an added burst of flavor.
Leftover Magic
If you happen to have any leftovers—though unlikely, given how delicious this soup is—rest assured that they will taste just as good the next day. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and it will be as flavorful as when it was freshly made.
You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, allowing some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before starting.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sliced avocado
- Crunchy tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Cooking Directions
Follow these steps to create your delicious soup.
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add Ingredients
Stir in the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with cheese, avocado, tortilla strips, and cilantro. Enjoy!
Once cooked, your soup can be served immediately or stored for later.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken Enchilada Soup is not just a tasty dish; it's also packed with nutrients. The inclusion of black beans and corn enhances the soup's fiber content, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer. Additionally, shredded chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall wellness.
The variety of vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-balanced meal. As you enjoy this comforting soup, you'll be fueling your body with beneficial nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence for any mealtime.
Quick Cooking Tips
To make your preparation even quicker, consider using a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store. This saves time without sacrificing flavor, allowing you to simply shred the chicken before adding it to the pot. You can also prep ingredients in advance, like chopping onions or mincing garlic, so everything is ready to go when you're ready to cook.
When it comes to seasoning, remember to taste as you go. Each brand of enchilada sauce differs in saltiness and spice levels, so adjusting your seasonings can help achieve the perfect balance for your personal taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free enchilada sauce and verify other ingredients.
Chicken Enchilada Soup
Warm up with this hearty Chicken Enchilada Soup that combines savory chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and a medley of vegetables for a comforting meal any day of the week. Topped with cheese, avocado, and crunchy tortilla strips, this soup is a delicious twist on traditional enchiladas, making it a perfect choice for taco night or a cozy family dinner.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sliced avocado
- Crunchy tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro
How-To Steps
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot, topped with cheese, avocado, tortilla strips, and cilantro. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g