Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Thick, creamy, and easy-to-make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. This soup combines wholesome ingredients with a delightful Tex-Mex flavor profile, making it a filling meal for weeknights or a comforting side dish for gatherings. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich spices, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – With only 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, this soup is ready in just 35 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed – Loaded with spices and fresh ingredients, each bowl offers a burst of Tex-Mex flavor that’s sure to please.
• Versatile Ingredients – Customize your soup with different beans or veggies based on what you have at home.
• Comforting and Filling – Perfectly creamy and hearty, this soup is ideal for chilly evenings or when you need a comforting meal.
• Healthy Choice – Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this soup provides both nutrition and satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

Getting ready to make your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup requires a few essential tools to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot – Ideal for cooking large quantities of soup evenly without spilling.
• Hand blender – Makes blending the soup smooth and creamy right in the pot, saving washing multiple containers.
• Cutting board & Knife – Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, gather 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)

Seasonings & Broth

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

Beans & Chicken

• 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

Garnish

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

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Melt 1 tablespoon Butter or Ghee 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 the 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 taste.
9. Bring the mixture to a boil then lower the heat; simmer for about 10–15 minutes until veggies are very tender.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

1. Remove from heat. Using a hand blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
2. Return the blended soup to medium heat.

Step 4: Combine Additional Ingredients

1. Add:
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 (use about 1 Cup Mexican Shredded Cheese Blend divided into servings). Enjoy your warm bowl of creamy goodness!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to present this flavorful soup.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices on top for richness and healthy fats.
• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the spices.

Pair with Crunchy Extras

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors perfectly.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds a refreshing touch and additional texture.

Garnish Creatively

• Lime Wedges: Offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick when squeezed over the soup.
• Shredded Cheese: Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese blend for added flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For speed and convenience, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify chili powder and cumin based on your taste preferences; add more for extra heat!
• Blend Thoroughly: Blend the soup until smooth for a creamy texture that enhances the overall experience.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Choose Quality Broth: Using high-quality low sodium chicken broth can significantly improve the soup’s flavor profile.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup with delicious side dishes can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices enhances the Tex-Mex theme of your meal.
2. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip pairs excellently with the soup and adds extra flavor.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices provide a hearty side that complements the soup well.
4. Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an easy and tasty pairing.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas are perfect for dipping into the soup, adding gooey goodness to each bite.
6. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad offers a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, enhancing your meal’s balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup from good to great.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can result in a lack of flavor. Always start by cooking your veggies to enhance their taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: If you add raw chicken or overcook it, it may become tough. Use pre-cooked shredded chicken for a tender texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not adjusting the seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste and adjust salt and spices as needed before serving.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality canned tomatoes or broth can affect the overall flavor. Opt for high-quality diced fire-roasted tomatoes and low-sodium broth for the best results.
• Not Blending Enough: A chunky soup may not have the creamy texture you’re aiming for. Blend thoroughly until smooth for that desired creaminess.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping toppings like cheese or cilantro can make your dish less appealing. Don’t forget to add garnishes for extra flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through, for about 3-5 minutes, or until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better when made ahead! Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use turkey or shredded beef as alternatives for chicken if you prefer different flavors.

How long does Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup last in the fridge?

This soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based option.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect as a main course or side dish. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!