Craving the bold flavors of <a href="https://www.newtimescooking.com/empress-<a href="https://www.newtimescooking.com/empress-Chicken: An Authentic Chinese Royal Recipe" data-ail-link="true">chicken/" title="The Ultimate Guide to Empress Chicken: An Authentic Chinese Royal Recipe” data-ail-link=”true”>chicken/" title="The Ultimate Guide to Empress Chicken: An Authentic Chinese Royal Recipe” data-ail-link=”true”>chicken enchiladas but longing for the comfort of a warm, hearty <a href="https://www.newtimescooking.com/modern-proper-lasagna-<a href="https://www.newtimescooking.com/modern-proper-lasagna-Soup: Comfort in a Bowl" data-ail-link="true">soup-comfort-in-a-bowl/" title="Modern Proper Lasagna Soup: Comfort in a Bowl” data-ail-link=”true”>soup-comfort-in-a-bowl/" title="Modern Proper Lasagna Soup: Comfort in a Bowl” data-ail-link=”true”>soup? Look no further than this delicious chicken enchilada soup! This Mexican-inspired dish beautifully combines the zesty, savory notes of traditional enchiladas with the soothing warmth of a creamy, satisfying soup. In this post, we’ll walk you through an easy step-by-step recipe, share expert tips for crafting the perfect chicken enchilada soup, and offer creative variations to suit various tastes and dietary needs.
What is Chicken <a href="https://www.newtimescooking.com/homemade-green-enchilada-sauce-a-flavorful-tangy-twist-for-your-mexican-dishes/" title="Homemade Green Enchilada Sauce: A Flavorful, Tangy Twist for Your Mexican Dishes” data-ail-link=”true”>Enchilada Soup?
Chicken enchilada soup is a mouthwatering one-pot meal that captures the essence of chicken enchiladas in a comforting, broth-based form. This hearty soup typically features tender shredded chicken, rich enchilada sauce, fiber-packed beans, sweet corn, and a blend of aromatic spices. These ingredients come together to create a robust, flavorful soup that’s perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Bold Flavors: Experience all the vibrant tastes of chicken enchiladas in a comforting, slurp-able form.
- Easy to Make: This one-pot recipe is simple to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Filling: Packed with lean chicken, vegetables, and fiber-rich beans, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences, whether you need it dairy-free, gluten-free, or extra spicy.
Key Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Shredded Chicken: Use cooked, shredded chicken from poached chicken breasts, rotisserie chicken, or leftover roasted chicken.
- Enchilada Sauce: Homemade sauce offers deeper, more authentic flavor, but store-bought works well for convenience.
- Beans: Black beans or pinto beans add fiber and texture, making the soup heartier.
- Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of the broth.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth as the base, providing depth and a savory backbone.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion powder give the soup its signature enchilada-inspired flavor.
Step-by-Step Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup masa harina (corn flour) for thickening
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Liquid Base: Pour in the enchilada sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
- Simmer the Soup: Add shredded chicken, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Finish the Soup: If desired, whisk masa harina with 1/2 cup of water and stir into the soup to thicken. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Variations of Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or 4 oz cream cheese for extra richness.
- Spicy Chicken Enchilada Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for an extra kick.
- Low-Carb Chicken Enchilada Soup: Skip the beans and use cauliflower rice instead. Use full-fat cheese and cream for added richness.
- Vegetarian Enchilada Soup: Replace chicken with extra beans or cubed tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Health Benefits of Chicken Enchilada Soup
- High in Protein: Shredded chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and energy.
- Rich in Fiber: Beans and corn add fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
- Packed with Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes boost vitamin and mineral content.
- Low in Calories: This broth-based soup is lower in calories compared to cream-based alternatives, especially with lighter toppings.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Offer shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, or lime wedges.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or warm cornbread.
- Tortilla Strips: Top with crispy tortilla strips. To make your own, cut corn tortillas into thin strips and fry in hot oil until golden and crisp, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Tips
- Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store in individual containers for easy meals throughout the week.
- Freezing: Cool soup completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup.
- Adjust the Thickness: If too thick, add more broth. If too thin, add a tablespoon of masa harina or cornmeal.
- Season to Taste: Taste as you go and adjust spices to your liking. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors.
Conclusion
Chicken enchilada soup is a versatile, comforting dish that brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine to your bowl. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or a comforting meal on a cold day, this soup has got you covered. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a perfect addition to your recipe collection. So grab your ladle, gather your favorite toppings, and dive into a bowl of this delicious, Mexican-inspired comfort food!
FAQ
- Can I make chicken enchilada soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. - Can I freeze chicken enchilada soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. - How can I make this soup spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra chili powder. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side. - What’s the best way to shred chicken for this soup?
Poach chicken breasts in broth, then use two forks to shred the meat. Alternatively, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. - Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
Yes, store-bought enchilada sauce works well for convenience, but homemade sauce can offer a richer, more authentic flavor.
