Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

If you’re craving a delicious, comforting bowl of soup that’s bursting with bold flavors and creamy goodness, look no further than this amazing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, offering a quick and satisfying way to enjoy classic Mexican-inspired flavors in a warm, hearty soup. Packed with tender chicken, melty cheese, and a rich enchilada-spiced broth, Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù is sure to become your new go-to comfort food favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal fast.
  • Rich and Creamy: The blend of cheese and cream makes each spoonful incredibly smooth and satisfying.
  • Bold Flavors: Packed with authentic enchilada spices that give the soup a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory notes.
  • Family Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will devour happily.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable to include extra veggies or switch up proteins for a fresh twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that each play an important role in building its flavor, texture, and vibrant color. These pantry staples and fresh components come together to make a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and tastebud-pleasing.

  • Chicken breast or thighs: Provides tender, juicy protein that absorbs all the lovely spices.
  • Enchilada sauce: The heart of the soup with authentic Mexican flavor and a rich tomato base.
  • Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, comforting soup base to blend all ingredients.
  • Diced green chilies: Adds mild heat and vibrant color without overpowering the dish.
  • Cream cheese or heavy cream: For that velvety, creamy texture that makes this soup so irresistible.
  • Black beans: Adds protein and fiber, giving the soup more body and nutrition.
  • Sweet corn kernels: Balances the spice with natural sweetness and adds texture.
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack): Melts beautifully on top or inside the soup for extra richness.
  • Onion and garlic: Builds a fragrant flavor base that anchors the whole dish.
  • Spices (cumin, chili powder, oregano): Enhance the authentic enchilada flavor and deliver warmth.

Variations for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to whatever you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative and adjust ingredients while still enjoying that creamy, bold enchilada flavor you love.

  • Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for extra beans, tofu, or roasted veggies for a meatless delight.
  • Spicier kick: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of cayenne to turn up the heat.
  • Low-carb version: Skip the beans and corn, and add chopped cauliflower or zucchini instead.
  • Dairy-free alternative: Use coconut milk or cashew cream in place of dairy for creaminess.
  • Extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach for added color and nutrients.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù Fast

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating oil in a large pot and sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent, setting the flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Spices

Next, add diced chicken pieces along with cumin, chili powder, and oregano, stirring well to coat the meat and release the aromatic spices’ magic.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Enchilada Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and enchilada sauce, then add diced green chilies, corn, and black beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook Through

Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook thoroughly until tender.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Finally, stir in cream cheese or heavy cream until smooth and silky. Add shredded cheese, allowing it to melt seamlessly into the soup’s creamy texture.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

  • Use rotisserie chicken: For an even faster version, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds extra flavor.
  • Control spice levels: Adjust chili powder and green chilies to suit your family’s heat preference.
  • Don’t skip the cream cheese: It’s the secret to achieving that dreamy, rich consistency.
  • Fresh toppings matter: Adding fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or lime juice brightens the flavors right before serving.
  • Make it thicker: For a chunkier texture, you can mash some beans or use less broth.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

Garnishes

Top your soup bowl with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced avocados, a squeeze of lime, and extra shredded cheese or crunchy tortilla strips for added texture and freshness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm cornbread, crispy tortilla chips, or a simple green salad to complement the soup’s bold flavors and add a little crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this soup in small bread bowls or mason jars for an inviting presentation that’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and textures firm.

Freezing

This soup freezes well — simply cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months for easy future meals.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken saves time and still makes the soup deliciously tender.

Is Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù spicy?

The spice level is moderate and can be easily adjusted by changing the amount of chili powder or green chilies added.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew-based dairy alternatives for a rich, dairy-free version.

What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?

You can make a quick homemade version by combining tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of oregano as a substitute.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Definitely, it freezes well and retains its flavor and texture when thawed and reheated properly.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù to brighten your day with bold flavors and comforting richness. This simple, speedy recipe is destined to become one of your favorite cozy meals—whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself. Give it a try, and watch it quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

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Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting and flavorful Mexican-inspired soup packed with tender chicken, melty cheese, and a rich enchilada-spiced broth. Ready in under 30 minutes, this hearty and creamy soup combines authentic spices, black beans, corn, and cream cheese to create a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

  • Author: Kathy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soups
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

Liquids & Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 4 oz cream cheese or 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

Spices

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Diced avocado
  • Lime wedges
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Crunchy tortilla strips

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
  2. Add the Chicken and Spices: Add diced chicken pieces to the pot along with cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices and cook for 3-5 minutes until the chicken starts to brown.
  3. Pour in Broth and Enchilada Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and enchilada sauce, then add the diced green chilies, corn, and black beans. Stir to combine everything and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Simmer and Cook Through: Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook thoroughly until tender.
  5. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese or heavy cream until the soup is smooth and creamy. Then add the shredded cheese, stirring until it melts seamlessly into the soup’s rich texture.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken: For a quicker version, replace raw chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken.
  • Control spice levels: Adjust chili powder and green chilies to suit your preferred heat level.
  • Don’t skip the cream cheese: It is essential for a rich, creamy consistency.
  • Fresh toppings matter: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or lime juice before serving to brighten flavors.
  • Make it thicker: Mash some beans or reduce broth quantity for a chunkier soup.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chicken enchilada soup, creamy chicken soup, Mexican soup, enchilada flavors, quick dinner soup, comfort food

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