There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, packed with vibrant flavors that dance on your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a hint of spice makes this soup a true family favorite in my house. I remember the first time I made it; my kids couldn’t get enough! Now, it’s a staple at our dinner table whenever we crave something hearty yet healthy. What’s even better? It comes together quickly, allowing us to savor those cozy moments together without hours spent in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for comfort food, too!

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this Chicken Enchilada Soup! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can black beans, drained
1 can corn, drained
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt to taste
1 cup shredded cheese
Cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, and you’ll be just minutes away from a delicious, hearty soup!

How to Prepare Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making this Chicken Enchilada Soup is as simple as it is delicious! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal in no time. Let’s dive in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil if you like, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!
Next, stir in the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and those zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to combine. You’ll start to see the colors come together beautifully!
Now, it’s time to kick up the flavor. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld perfectly.
After 20 minutes, taste it! Adjust the spices if you need to—maybe a bit more chili powder for a kick? When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! A cozy bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup that’s ready to warm your heart and fill your belly. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about what’s packed into this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use:

Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 8g
Cholesterol: 70mg

This soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also a great source of protein and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for a wholesome meal. Enjoy every nourishing bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This Chicken Enchilada Soup comes together in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Hearty and Filling: With tender chicken, beans, and corn, this soup packs a punch that’ll keep you satisfied.
Full of Flavor: The mix of spices and zesty tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Healthy: Loaded with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family without sacrificing taste.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Tips for Success

Getting the most out of your Chicken Enchilada Soup is all about those little tweaks that can elevate your dish. Here are my top tips to ensure you nail it every time!

Adjust the Spices: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or even a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer it milder, try reducing the chili powder. It’s all about finding that perfect balance for your palate.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a super quick meal, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store! It saves you time and adds a great flavor. Just shred the meat and toss it in—easy peasy!
Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just be sure to leave a little space in the container for expansion!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and onions; they really enhance the flavor! And if you can get your hands on fresh cilantro for garnish, it makes a world of difference.
Top It Off: Don’t forget to get creative with toppings! Besides cheese and cilantro, think avocado slices, sour cream, or even crushed tortilla chips for some crunch. It adds that extra layer of yum!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup ever! Happy cooking!

Variations of Chicken Enchilada Soup

One of the best things about this Chicken Enchilada Soup is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste buds or use up whatever you have in your pantry. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

Different Beans: While black beans are a classic, feel free to mix it up! Try pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a unique twist. Each bean brings its own flavor and texture, adding to the heartiness of the soup.
Fresh Vegetables: Add some color and nutrition by tossing in fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic to soften them up before adding the rest of the ingredients. You can even sneak in some spinach or kale for extra greens!
Spice it Up: If you love heat, consider adding jalapeños or diced green chiles for more spice. You can also try a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Just remember to taste as you go!
Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream right before serving. It adds a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for shredded beef or turkey to mix things up. You could also make it vegetarian by using more beans and veggies in place of meat. Tofu can be a great plant-based option if you’re looking for something different!

With these variations, you can enjoy a new take on Chicken Enchilada Soup each time you make it. Get creative and have fun experimenting with flavors! Trust me, every bowl will be a delightful surprise!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a delicious pot of Chicken Enchilada Soup, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! This soup is so hearty and flavorful, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that’ll enhance your meal. Here are my favorite suggestions:

Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are a must! They add a delightful texture and can be used for dipping right into the soup. You can even sprinkle some cheese on them and pop them in the oven for a minute or two for cheesy nachos!
Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado brings a creamy element that complements the spices in the soup. It’s not only delicious but also adds a fresh pop of color to your bowl.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is a great way to balance the richness of the soup. Think a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette or a corn and black bean salad to keep with the Southwest theme.
Mexican Rice: Serve the soup with a side of fluffy Mexican rice for a complete meal. The rice soaks up the flavors of the soup and makes it even more filling.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top of your soup adds a cool, tangy contrast to the warmth of the dish. Plus, it looks so inviting!
Cheesy Quesadillas: How about some cheesy quesadillas? They’re easy to make and are perfect for dipping into the soup. You can stuff them with cheese, beans, or any leftover chicken for a tasty side.

These serving suggestions will elevate your Chicken Enchilada Soup experience and make for a fun, delicious meal. Enjoy every bite and happy feasting!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Chicken Enchilada Soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I hear, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool down and then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion!

How do I reheat the soup?

Reheating is super easy! You can warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave. Just make sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure it warms evenly.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, indeed! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance, and the flavors will actually deepen and improve overnight. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to serve!

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you’re looking to switch up the protein, feel free to swap the chicken for shredded turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option. If you want to keep it plant-based, try using extra beans and vegetables instead of meat, or maybe some tofu for a protein boost!

Is it possible to make this soup spicier?

Definitely! If you want to turn up the heat, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce while it cooks. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to taste. Just remember to add a little at a time and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level!

I hope these FAQs help clarify any questions you had about making Chicken Enchilada Soup. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!

Chicken Enchilada Soup: 5 Bold Flavors to Savor Today

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and flavorful chicken enchilada soup.

Instructions

In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and chicken broth.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, and salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Serve hot, topped with cheese and cilantro.

Notes

You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Adjust spices to taste.
This soup freezes well for later use.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 300
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken, enchilada, soup, recipe

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