Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Thick, creamy, and easy-to-make, Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful dish that combines wholesome ingredients with flavorful Tex-Mex elements. This soup is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a hearty side dish when entertaining guests. It’s loaded with chicken, beans, and vibrant vegetables, making it both filling and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in just 35 minutes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Loaded with spices and fresh components, this recipe bursts with flavor in every spoonful.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer at parties.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup offers a nutritious balance without compromising on taste.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or sour cream for an extra touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the soup, gather your essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Hand blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly; allows for ample space to combine all ingredients.
• Hand blender: Perfect for achieving the desired creamy texture without transferring the soup to a blender.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Base 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)

Seasoning Ingredients

• 1½ teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 15 ounces Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes (1 can)
• ¼ Cup Tomato Paste

Liquid Ingredients

• 4 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth

Protein and Beans

• 14.5 ounces Red Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed, 1 can)
• 14.5 ounces Black Beans (drained and rinsed, 1 can)
• 2 Cups Shredded Cooked Chicken

Additional Ingredients

• 1 Cup Fresh or Frozen Sweet Corn
• 1 Cup Mexican Shredded Cheese Blend (for garnishing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt 1 tablespoon of Butter or Ghee (or avocado oil if using) in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
– Add the diced onion, sliced celery stalks, thinly sliced carrot, diced red bell pepper, and chopped garlic.
– Cook until softened for about 5-6 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Seasonings & Broth

Stir in the seasonings:
– Add 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.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Lower the heat and let it simmer:
– Cook for about 10-15 minutes until all vegetables are very tender.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Remove from heat:
– Using a hand blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Place the blended soup back over medium heat:
– Add drained red kidney beans, drained black beans, sweet corn, and shredded cooked chicken.
– Stir to combine well and boil for a couple of minutes just to heat everything through.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

Pour into bowls:
– Top each serving with shredded cheese or your favorite toppings. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is an excellent way to create a comforting meal. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for different occasions.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado Slices – Add creamy slices of avocado for a rich texture.
• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges – Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.

Accompany with Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips – Offer crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or sprinkling.
• Cornbread Muffins – Pair with sweet cornbread muffins for a delightful contrast.

Create a Complete Meal

• Rice – Serve over a bed of rice for added heartiness.
• Salad – A simple green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

To achieve the best version of your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Easily modify chili powder according to your heat preference.
• Blend Thoroughly – For an ultra-creamy texture, ensure the soup is blended smoothly.
• Quality Broth Matters – Opt for low sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while maintaining flavor.
• Add More Veggies – Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Garnish Creatively – Experiment with toppings like sour cream or jalapeños for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Guacamole – A creamy avocado dip that complements the flavors of the soup.
2. Mexican Rice – Flavorful rice cooked with spices that serves as a satisfying side.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas stuffed with beans or chicken make an excellent pairing.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn topped with cheese and lime provides a delicious contrast.
6. Chips and Salsa – A classic combination that adds crunch and zest alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish. Here are some to avoid:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always take time to cook the onions and garlic until soft for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you overcook the chicken in the soup, it can become dry and tough. Use pre-cooked chicken and add it towards the end of cooking for better results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Seasonings can vary greatly between brands. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and spices as needed to enhance flavor.
• Using low-quality canned beans: Not all canned beans are created equal. Opt for high-quality brands or cook your own beans for better texture and flavor.
• Not blending enough: If you don’t blend the soup thoroughly, it may not achieve the creamy texture you desire. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, starting with 1-2 minutes on high, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup:

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or beef for chicken if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or extra chili powder during cooking.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or additional beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What toppings go well with Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Top with avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges, or tortilla chips for added flavor and crunch!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a fantastic choice for a hearty meal that is both filling and comforting. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices to fit your taste preferences!