As the sun sets and I feel the cool evening air settling in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a bowl of creamy chicken enchilada soup. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rushed weeknight dinner, but the moment I took my first spoonful, it transformed my hectic day into a cozy culinary experience. This delicious, Tex-Mex-inspired soup blends tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, and vibrant tomatoes into a rich, cheesy broth that warms you from the inside out.
What I love most about this recipe is its wonderful flexibility—switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Whether it’s a simple lunch or a quick family dinner, this creamy creation is easy to whip up in under an hour. With spices that dance on your palate and a sprinkle of optional toppings to elevate each bowl, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds in no time! Ready to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why will you love Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Comforting warmth: There’s something so special about a velvety bowl of soup that wraps you in its embrace.
Easy and quick: Whip this up in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The medley of Tex-Mex spices and rich cheese creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Versatile goodness: Customize with your favorite ingredients—substitute beans or add extra veggies for that personal touch.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish caters to everyone, enticing family and friends to gather around the table for seconds!
Meal-prep friendly: Prepare a batch ahead and freeze it for those days when time is scarce, ensuring cozy dinners on demand.
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Avocado Oil – Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables; butter or ghee can also be used.
- Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The main protein source that makes the soup hearty; leftover rotisserie chicken speeds up prep!
- Medium Onion – Adds a flavorful foundation when sautéed; red or yellow onion works too!
- Fresh Garlic – Deepens the flavor profile; can’t find fresh? Substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Enchilada Sauce – This is what gives the soup its tasty Tex-Mex flair; consider using green enchilada sauce for a twist.
- Diced Roasted Tomatoes – Provides texture and a hint of sweetness; fresh or canned diced tomatoes are also great options.
- Chicken Broth – The flavorful liquid that binds everything; vegetable broth offers a lighter alternative.
For the Protein & Fiber
- Black Beans – Boosts the soup with protein and fiber; pinto beans can be swapped in if needed.
- Frozen Sweet Corn – Adds a pop of sweetness and color; fresh corn is even better in season!
For the Spice Mix
- Ground Cumin, Chili Powder, Ground Coriander – Essential for crafting that aromatic Tex-Mex spice blend; adjust the heat to your liking!
- Salt and Pepper – Important for enhancing all flavors; consider smoked salt for a delightful depth.
For the Creamy Finishing Touch
- Sour Cream – Gives that creamy tanginess we crave; Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
- Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully into the soup for richness; Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend works best—avoid pre-shredded for better melting.
For Optional Toppings
- Avocado, Cilantro, Tortilla Strips, Lime Wedges, Additional Cheese – These toppings enhance flavor and presentation; feel free to customize based on your preferences!
Dive into this creamy chicken enchilada soup that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
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Prep Ingredients: Start by dicing the onions and mincing the garlic, then set them aside. Grate the cheese and keep it separate for later use.
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Cook Chicken: In a Dutch oven, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and brown for 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
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Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and optional ground coriander. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant and flavorful.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the diced roasted tomatoes and enchilada sauce, cooking for 3-4 minutes until everything is well blended and warmed through.
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Simmer Soup: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, return the cooked chicken, along with black beans and corn, to the pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
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Finish Soup: Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the sour cream until the mixture is nice and smooth. Add shredded cheese, adjusting seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice as desired.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of optional toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips.
Optional: Top with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra zesty flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to help loosen the soup if it thickens.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup (without sour cream) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of creamy chicken enchilada soup on a busy night!
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on low heat, then stir in sour cream and cheese before serving for the best texture.
Airtight Tips: Always cool the soup completely before transferring it to containers to avoid condensation and freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
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Proper Oil Heat: Always ensure the avocado oil is hot enough before adding chicken; this helps to achieve a nice browning and locks in moisture.
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Cheese Matters: For the best texture in your creamy chicken enchilada soup, grate cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded to avoid additives that impede melting.
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Sour Cream Addition: Add sour cream off the heat to prevent curdling; this keeps your broth silky and rich without any unwanted texture changes.
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Spice Control: If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with less chili powder, and gradually add for a customized heat level that suits everyone’s taste.
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Storage Success: For great leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply reheat gently, adding a bit more broth if needed for texture.
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Flavor Boosting Toppings: Don’t skip the optional toppings! A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice brightens the creamy chicken enchilada soup and enhances overall flavor.
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Variations & Substitutions
Looking to give your creamy chicken enchilada soup a personal touch? Here are some delightful twists that will elevate your culinary experience!
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Bean Swap: Replace black beans with pinto or kidney beans for a different flavor and texture. Each variation brings a unique taste of warmth and satisfaction.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added freshness. These vibrant veggies not only enhance nutrition but also brighten the soup’s color.
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Grain Addition: Incorporate cooked quinoa or rice to truly bulk up the soup, transforming it into a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.
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Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bold kick that ignites your taste buds.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with cheese types like pepper jack for a spicy twist or feta for an unexpected tang. Each adds its own flair to the creamy base.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap sour cream for cashew cream or coconut yogurt to create a dairy-free version without losing the creaminess you crave.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or green onions can bring a burst of flavor. They enhance both aroma and appearance, perfect for impressing guests.
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Fire-Roasted Flavor: Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular for a smokier depth. This small change can transform your soup into an unforgettable dish.
Feel free to mix and match these variations and discover new favorites in your kitchen!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on weeknights! You can prep the entire soup up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator (without adding the sour cream or cheese) to maintain its creamy texture. Simply cook the soup up to the simmering step, cool it, and refrigerate in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop and stir in the sour cream and cheese for that indulgent finish. This simple make-ahead method ensures you have a comforting meal ready in minutes when hunger strikes!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Comfort food at its finest deserves delicious accompaniments that enhance the overall meal experience.
- Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, they add that delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: This zesty side elevates the flavors and pairs wonderfully with the Tex-Mex profile of the soup. The brightness of lime complements the creaminess perfectly.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and vibrant veggies provide a refreshing balance to the rich soup, making each bite feel lighter and energizing.
- Homemade Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, it’s a comforting companion that soaks up that delicious broth beautifully.
- Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, it adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the entire meal. Pair it with some lime wedges to enhance the experience!
- Frozen Margaritas: Sip on a frosty margarita to complement that Tex-Mex vibe, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm and creamy soup. For a non-alcoholic version, consider a tangy limeade!
- Fruity Sorbet: To finish off the meal, a fruity sorbet can cleanse the palate with its refreshing sweetness after the savory soup. A scoop of lime or mango would be delightful!
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my avocados are ripe?
Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed in your palm. Avoid any with dark spots or excessive softness, as these indicate overripeness. If you have unripe avocados, place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for a day or two to speed up the ripening process.
How should I store leftover creamy chicken enchilada soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to restore the desired soup consistency.
Can I freeze creamy chicken enchilada soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat on the stovetop, and stir in sour cream and cheese just before serving for optimal creaminess.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
If you find your creamy chicken enchilada soup is too thick after cooking, simply add a little more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir continuously over low heat for even blending. This allows you to customize the heartiness of the soup to your liking!
Is creamy chicken enchilada soup safe for people with dairy allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, I suggest substituting sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and using plant-based cheese. Be sure to read labels carefully to find suitable replacements that are low in additives, ensuring you can still enjoy the comforting flavors without any issues!
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Very! You can definitely add extra veggies like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to enhance the nutritious profile while enjoying the delicious flavors. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic for an additional flavor boost before continuing with the recipe.
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Ingredients: Start by dicing the onions and mincing the garlic, then set them aside. Grate the cheese and keep it separate for later use.
- Cook Chicken: In a Dutch oven, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and brown for 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and optional ground coriander. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant and flavorful.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in the diced roasted tomatoes and enchilada sauce, cooking for 3-4 minutes until everything is well blended and warmed through.
- Simmer Soup: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, return the cooked chicken, along with black beans and corn, to the pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Finish Soup: Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the sour cream until the mixture is nice and smooth. Add shredded cheese, adjusting seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice as desired.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of optional toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips.