Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Thick, creamy, and easy-to-make, Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. Packed with tender chicken and vibrant Tex-Mex flavors, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or as a comforting side at gatherings. Its unique blend of spices and ingredients ensures every spoonful is bursting with taste, making it a favorite for family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Flavor-Packed: Loaded with spices and fresh ingredients, each bite delivers an explosion of Tex-Mex flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or main course; it fits any occasion seamlessly.
• Nutritious Ingredients: With beans and vegetables, this soup provides protein and fiber, making it a wholesome meal.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while allowing plenty of room for all ingredients.
• Hand blender: Makes blending the soup easy and ensures a creamy texture without transferring to another container.

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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)

For Seasoning

• 1½ teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano

For the Soup

• 15 ounces Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes (1 can)
• ¼ Cup Tomato Paste
• 4 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
• 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

For Garnishing

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

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Melt 1 tablespoon Butter or Ghee (add avocado oil if using) in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 Medium Onion (diced), 2 Celery Stalks (sliced), 1 Medium Carrot (thinly sliced), 1 Large Red Bell Pepper (diced), and 2-3 Garlic Cloves (chopped).
3. Cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes.

Step 2: Add Spices and Broth

1. Stir in seasonings:
2. 1½ teaspoon Ground Cumin
3. 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
4. 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
5. 15 ounces Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes
6. ¼ Cup Tomato Paste
7. 4 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth.
8. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
9. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10–15 minutes until veggies are very tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

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

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Stir in:
2. 14.5 ounces Red Kidney Beans
3. 14.5 ounces Black Beans
4. 1 Cup Fresh or Frozen Sweet Corn
5. 2 Cups Shredded Cooked Chicken.
6. Stir to combine and boil for a couple of minutes just to heat everything through.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Pour into bowls and top with shredded cheese (divide the cheese into servings). Feel free to add your favorite toppings! Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado slices – Add a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Chopped cilantro – Offers a fresh and vibrant taste that complements the soup.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime adds brightness and acidity.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla strips – Provides a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Crushed tortilla chips – Sprinkle on top for added texture and flavor.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Simple green salad – A light salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the richness of the soup.
• Mexican street corn salad – This brings in additional flavors that match the Tex-Mex theme.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

To make your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish with minimal effort.

• Use quality ingredients – Fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken broth significantly enhance flavor.
• Adjust seasoning carefully – Taste as you go to ensure the right balance of spices; don’t be afraid to tweak it!
• Incorporate more veggies – Add zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Blend for creaminess – Using an immersion blender creates a smooth texture; don’t skip this step if you prefer creamy soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Complement your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup with these tasty side dishes. Each option brings something special to the table.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and moist cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the soup.
2. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole adds richness and is a delightful accompaniment.
3. Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices enhances the overall meal experience.
4. Quesadillas – Cheese-filled tortillas add gooey goodness that matches well with the soup’s flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and beans make for a hearty side.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies provide a healthy contrast to the soup’s creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the flavor and texture of the dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always cook your onions, garlic, and other veggies until softened to enhance their flavors.
• Using regular broth: Opting for standard chicken broth instead of low sodium can make your soup overly salty. Choose low sodium options for better control over the seasoning.
• Not blending enough: If you skip blending the soup or don’t blend it well enough, it may end up chunky rather than creamy. Use a hand blender to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Ignoring bean preparation: Not rinsing canned beans can add excess sodium and a metallic taste. Always drain and rinse them before adding them to your soup.
• Overcooking chicken: Adding uncooked chicken or not thoroughly shredding cooked chicken can result in uneven cooking. Ensure it’s shredded finely and added at the right time for even heating.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label with the date.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour individual servings into microwave-safe bowls. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use different types of beans in Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Yes! You can switch out red kidney beans or black beans for other varieties like pinto beans or white beans based on your preference.

What if I want a vegetarian version of this soup?

For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with more vegetables or plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The spiciness depends on how much chili powder you use. For milder soup, reduce the chili powder, or add extra toppings like sour cream to balance heat.

Can I customize my toppings?

Absolutely! Popular toppings include avocado slices, cilantro, jalapeños, or tortilla strips. Feel free to get creative!

How long does Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup take to make?

The total time is around 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time—perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it makes an ideal choice for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try today!