After a busy day, there’s nothing quite like a warm, satisfying bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. When the evening chill sets in, I often find myself gravitating towards my go-to Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup, a delightful fusion of creamy goodness that captures the essence of traditional enchiladas but in a convenient and quick-to-prepare form. The tender chicken sings in harmony with vibrant green salsa and fragrant spices, making each spoonful a burst of flavor that warms the soul.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, vegetarian or meaty, there’s a variation that can suit any palate. Plus, on those hectic weeknights or cozy evenings at home, you’ll appreciate how easily it comes together—perfect for gathering the family together over a delicious meal. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this comforting bowl of happiness that turns ordinary nights into something special!
Why is Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: This creamy soup delivers a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick Prep Time: With just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
Customizable Options: Tailor it to your taste—add extra spice, mix in veggies, or try a slow-cooker method.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with even the pickiest eaters, making mealtime a breeze.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and flavor, each serving is a guilt-free delight!
Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Cooked, Shredded Chicken – Main protein source, providing richness. Substitute with rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
• Chicken Broth – Base for the soup, adding depth. Use vegetarian broth for a meatless option.
• Green Salsa – Adds tangy flavor and a hint of heat. Adjust amount based on spice preference.
For Texture and Flavor
• Black Beans – Provides protein and texture. Can replace with pinto beans or omit for a lighter soup.
• Corn – Sweet burst in each bite. Fresh, frozen, or canned works; use any that’s convenient.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy texture. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
For Seasoning
• Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor. Can be replaced with taco seasoning for variety.
• Chili Powder – Enhances the taste with mild heat. Adjust according to spice tolerance.
• Garlic Powder – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can be used for stronger taste.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For Final Touches
• Shredded Cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar) – Melts for creaminess; feel free to mix cheeses for flavor depth.
• Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish as a garnish. Omit if herb flavors are not desired.
• Lime Wedges – Adds a zesty finish when served. Use lemon as an alternative.
This Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup is not just a tasty meal but a comforting experience, perfect for those cozy nights in!
How to Make Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup
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Prepare Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients, including the pre-cooked shredded chicken. Measure them out to streamline your cooking process and ensure everything is ready to go!
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Sauté Chicken: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm up and absorb the flavors from the pan.
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Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently as you bring the mixture to a simmer—this will enhance the broth’s flavor and create a comforting base.
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Mix Salsa and Spices: Stir in the green salsa, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the spices are fully incorporated for a deliciously aromatic soup!
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Add Beans and Corn: Toss in the black beans and corn, stirring them into the mix. These ingredients will provide texture and a delightful burst of sweetness in each bite.
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Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, occasionally stirring. This step allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich, satisfying broth.
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Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat before stirring in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Keep stirring until everything is melted into a creamy harmony—this is where the magic happens!
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as preferred. A hint more salt, pepper, or spice can elevate the flavors, making every spoonful perfect!
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Serve Warm: Ladle your Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zing when you’re ready to dig in.
Optional: For a hearty crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh chicken and vegetables for the best flavor; avoiding canned items can elevate the dish significantly.
- Cream Caution: Don’t boil the soup after adding cream and cheese to prevent curdling and achieving a smooth texture.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Start with a small amount of green salsa if you’re unsure about spice tolerance; you can always add more later!
- Thickening Trick: For a thicker soup, whisk in a cornstarch slurry during the simmering phase, which will enrich the consistency beautifully.
- Versatile Protein Swap: Don’t hesitate to substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey for a delicious variation of the Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup.
- Taste Test: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving; small tweaks can make a big difference in flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and measure out all the veggies, along with shredded chicken, up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To keep the soup fresh, prepare the broth base and mix in spices, refrigerating this part for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the broth mixture, then stir in the beans, corn, cream, and cheese just before finishing up; this ensures every bite is just as delicious! This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting, hassle-free meal on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup?
This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with delightful side dishes, creating a cozy meal that everyone will love.
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Tortilla Chips: Their crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup, adding a satisfying element to each bite. Dip them in for an extra flavor burst!
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the spiciness of the soup, providing a refreshing balance and elevating the overall taste experience. A perfect addition for creamy lovers!
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful salad adds a sweet and savory profile, bringing freshness and brightness that complements the hearty soup perfectly.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of tangy sour cream adds creaminess and depth, enhancing the flavors while giving the soup a luxurious finish. It’s an easy way to elevate each bowl!
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Fresh Cilantro Rice: Aromatic rice with cilantro ties the meal together beautifully, soaking up the rich soup while adding a mild herbaceous twist to your palate.
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Margaritas: For adults, a refreshing margarita pairs exquisitely with the soup’s flavors, offering a sweet and tangy contrast that heightens the meal’s enjoyment.
Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup Variations
Feel free to customize your delicious soup with these simple variations, inviting new flavors and dietary preferences to the table!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or chickpeas for a satisfying meatless meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or more green salsa to crank up the heat and ignite your taste buds. Spicy lovers will rejoice!
- Cream Cheese Indulgence: Stir in cream cheese for an ultra-rich, velvety texture that transforms your soup into a creamy delight.
- Slow Cooker Magic: Combine ingredients in a slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours—a set-it-and-forget-it approach that brings maximum flavor!
- Additional Proteins: Toss in cooked shrimp or even turkey for a unique twist that adds depth and protein to your soup.
- Coconut Cream Dream: For a delightful flavor twist, try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical, dairy-free version that still satisfies.
- Lentil Boost: Replace black beans with lentils for added nutrition, creating a hearty and protein-packed bowl that’s full of goodness.
- Colorful Veggie Medley: Include carrots, corn, or diced tomatoes to enhance the soup’s color and flavor, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the soup ready to warm up for a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring it remains creamy and delicious.
Avoid Over-Storing: Try not to leave it in the fridge for too long, as the texture may change after a few days; freshly made Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup is always best!
Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this soup?
Absolutely! Tender, shredded chicken works wonders in this Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup. Opt for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick option or cook your own chicken breast and shred it. Just ensure it’s moist so it enhances the soup’s rich, creamy texture.
How long can I store the Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup in the fridge?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 4-5 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor. Simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, remove the container from the freezer and thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove to bring back that creamy goodness!
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
Very good question! If you find your soup has thickened more than desired, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while heating it up. Stir until you reach your preferred consistency. The soup should be creamy but also flow nicely when served.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup can easily be adjusted for dietary needs. For gluten-free options, just verify your chicken broth and salsa are gluten-free. If anyone has a dairy allergy, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and try a dairy-free cheese for garnish. It’s versatile and adaptable to suit various dietary restrictions!
What if I want a spicier version of the soup?
The more the merrier! You can definitely amp up the heat by adding extra green salsa or including diced jalapeños or serrano peppers in the mix. Taste as you go, and customize it to fit your preferred spice level while enjoying the delicious flavors!
Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup for Cozy Nights in
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients, including the pre-cooked shredded chicken.
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently as you bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the green salsa, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss in the black beans and corn, stirring them into the mix.
- Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, occasionally stirring.
- Reduce the heat before stirring in the heavy cream and shredded cheese.
- Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as preferred.
- Ladle your Green Chicken Enchiladas Soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro and serving with lime wedges.