Name: Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon mustard powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cumin; 1 pinch cinnamon; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1 jalapeno pepper, diced with seeds removed; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 10 oz. red enchilada sauce (homemade preferred); 10 oz. diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained); 15 oz. black beans (drained and rinsed); 15 oz. canned whole kernel corn (drained); 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast ((or 2 small)); 4 oz. cream cheese (cubed and softened); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded); ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded, can use more cheddar)

Introduction to Chicken Enchilada Soup

If you’re searching for a dish that warms your soul, look no further than chicken enchilada soup! This hearty and flavorful soup brings together the beloved elements of classic enchiladas in a comforting bowl ready to be savored. Imagine tender chunks of chicken swimming in a spicy broth filled with zesty red enchilada sauce, beans, corn, and cheese—each spoonful is a delightful experience.

Why Chicken Enchilada Soup is the Perfect Comfort Food

What makes chicken enchilada soup so irresistible? For starters, it’s versatile. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup can be whipped up in just under an hour. Plus, it's a fantastic way to utilize those leftover ingredients from your fridge.

Beyond convenience, its rich, savory flavor profile delivers all the comfort you've come to expect from traditional Mexican cuisine. With a blend of aromatic spices and creamy cheese, each bite is like a warm hug on a chilly day.

So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying chicken enchilada soup recipe that promises to become a new favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Highlighting Key Ingredients

To create a delicious chicken enchilada soup, you'll need a fantastic mix of ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The base calls for:

Seasonings: A blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder sets the stage. Don't forget that pinch of cinnamon for depth!
Soup Essentials: You’ll be using a combination of butter, olive oil, diced onion, jalapeño, minced garlic, and canned goods like red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. The star of our show, however, is a large boneless skinless chicken breast.
Creamy Finish: Cream cheese adds that luscious creamy texture, topped off with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for ultimate cheesiness.

Optional Toppings and Garnishes

The fun doesn’t stop with the soup itself! Here are some mouthwatering toppings you might consider adding for an extra layer of flavor and texture:

Avocado slices
Fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch
Sour cream to mellow the heat
Lime wedges for that citrus zing
Crumbled tortilla chips for a delightful crunch

Feel free to tailor your chicken enchilada soup with these garnishes to suit your taste!

Preparing Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making the perfect chicken enchilada soup is easier than you might think! With a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a cozy, flavorful dish that will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Seasonings: chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper
Soup ingredients: butter, olive oil, yellow onion, jalapeño pepper, garlic, red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, hot sauce (optional), chicken broth, chicken breast, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.

Taking the time to prep will make everything easier as you cook. Dice your vegetables, measure out your spices, and set aside the cream cheese to soften. If you don’t have enchilada sauce on hand, consider making your own for a richer flavor.

Sauté the aromatics

Now it’s time to heat things up! In a large soup pot, combine 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the diced onion and jalapeño pepper. Sauté these for about 4 minutes until they soften, and then stir in your minced garlic for another minute. The aroma will definitely get your taste buds excited!

Combine all ingredients for the soup

Next, it’s time to combine all the flavorful components of your chicken enchilada soup. Pat the chicken breast dry and season it with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in the pot along with the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, hot sauce, and chicken broth. Be sure to keep that gentle boil—this will ensure that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful as it cooks for about 15-20 minutes.

Shred the chicken and finish the soup

After the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial, as shredded chicken will blend nicely with the other ingredients, creating that smooth texture we all love in soup. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and reduce the heat to low.

Now, stir in the softened cream cheese until it is fully blended. Follow that with the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, allowing them to melt into the soup. Taste your creation—this is the perfect time to adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.

Serve and enjoy!

Finally, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor! Ladle the delicious chicken enchilada soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for that extra zing. This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Enjoy every spoonful!

Variations on Chicken Enchilada Soup

Vegetarian Option

For a delightful vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken for hearty ingredients like zucchini, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a rich flavor. You can also add protein-packed options like chickpeas or additional black beans for a filling meal. This way, you can enjoy a delicious veggie-enchilada soup that everyone will love!

Spicy Twist

Craving a little heat? Consider spicing up your chicken enchilada soup by adding more jalapeños or even some fresh serrano peppers. A dash of smoked paprika or some habanero cheese will intensify the bold flavors. For an extra layer of flavor, try throwing in some chopped cilantro as a garnish. It’s a surefire way to kick your soup experience up a notch!

Cooking Notes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pro Tips for Creamy Texture

To achieve that irresistibly creamy texture in your chicken enchilada soup, ensure your cream cheese is softened before adding it. A quick method is to place cubed cream cheese in the microwave for 5 minutes alongside a cup of warm water. This prevents any graininess and creates a smooth blend. Always stir gently to maintain creaminess.

Best Practices for Chicken Preparation

When cooking your chicken, consider using bone-in chicken thighs for added flavor and juiciness. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully as well. Add it in about 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning; this enhances browning and overall taste. For detailed tips on chicken preparation, you can check out resources like The USDA for safe cooking practices.

Serving suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Ideal accompaniments

To elevate your Chicken Enchilada Soup, consider serving it with complementary sides and toppings. Freshly made tortilla chips add that perfect crunch, while a dollop of sour cream balances the soup's spices. Chopped cilantro brings a burst of freshness, and diced avocado provides creaminess that perfectly contrasts with the flavors. For a zesty touch, lime wedges allow guests to add their own citrusy twist. Seeking something heartier? A side of cornbread pairs beautifully, soaking up the delicious broth.

Creative serving ideas

Get creative when dishing up your Chicken Enchilada Soup! Serve it in individual bowls, topped with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. You could even prepare mini bread bowls for an interactive dining experience, where guests can enjoy both the soup and the vessel. For a fun twist, layer the soup in tortillas for a DIY enchilada experience right at the table. Adding a side salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the soup's richness.

For further inspiration on sides and complements, check out some delicious Mexican-inspired recipes.

Time Details for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Preparation Time

Getting ready for this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup doesn’t take long! Set aside about 15 minutes to chop your veggies, season the chicken, and gather your ingredients.

Cooking Time

Once your prep is done, the cooking process will take around 30 minutes. This includes simmering the soup to allow those wonderful flavors to meld together while cooking the chicken to perfection.

Total Time

All in all, you can whip up this hearty Chicken Enchilada Soup in about 45 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight or cozy weekend gathering! Want to know more about how to elevate your cooking skills? Check out handy resources like Cooking Light for tips and inspiration!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Calories

Each cup of this delicious chicken enchilada soup contains approximately 242 calories. This makes it a comforting yet healthy choice for lunch or dinner, especially on chilly evenings.

Protein

With about 13 grams of protein per serving, this soup not only warms you up but also helps keep you satiated! The combination of chicken and beans contributes to this nourishing protein content, making it ideal for active lifestyles.

Sodium

It's worth noting that the soup has around 697 milligrams of sodium per cup. While this isn't excessive, if you're watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth or adjusting the seasoning to suit your dietary needs.

Enjoying a hearty bowl of chicken enchilada soup can be both a tasty and nutritious choice!

FAQs about Chicken Enchilada Soup

How can I make the soup spicier?

If you love a kick of heat, consider adding extra chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even a spoonful of hot sauce. For those who enjoy cheese with a bite, try swapping in some spicy cheddar cheese for a delicious twist. You can always adjust the level of chili powder based on your preference, too!

Can I use different types of chicken?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breast, feel free to substitute it with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time. Just add it in when the recipe indicates and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

To keep your chicken enchilada soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, it freezes wonderfully for up to three months. Just make sure to leave out any garnishes like cheese or avocado until you're ready to enjoy it again!

Conclusion on Chicken Enchilada Soup

In summary, chicken enchilada soup is a delicious, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Its blend of spices, tender chicken, and rich flavors creates a comforting bowl that warms the soul. Give this recipe a try; you're sure to love it and impress your friends!