Easy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Name: Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 3 cloves fresh garlic; 1 medium onion; 1 cup bell peppers (any color); 14 oz canned diced tomatoes with green chilies; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping); Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

Published: February 1, 2025

by Liora

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchilada Soup

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking
Bell Peppers: Use any color bell peppers you like; they add crunch and color to the soup
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while enhancing flavor
Taco Seasoning: This blend of spices infuses authentic Mexican flavor into the soup

For Toppings:

Sour Cream: Adds creaminess; consider using Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack works well as a melty topping

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and bell peppers into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the pot and sear them on both sides until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened (approximately 3-4 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot along with canned tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Stir everything together well.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover; let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

Remove chicken from the pot again; use two forks to shred it before returning it to the soup.

Transfer to bowls and garnish with your choice of sour cream or shredded cheese for a delightful finish.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like corn or black beans for added nutrition
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days

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How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Tips and tricks

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare components like shredded chicken and chopped vegetables in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. This saves time on busy days when you want to enjoy this savory soup.
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Use airtight containers to maintain freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup, which can last for up to three months. Ensure it is cooled completely before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, place the soup in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. For microwave reheating, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for about 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup:

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making a delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup. Fresh vegetables, quality chicken, and homemade broth can significantly enhance the flavor. Avoid using pre-packaged ingredients that contain preservatives or artificial flavors. When possible, opt for organic produce and natural spices to elevate your dish. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also add vibrant flavors and aromas. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly influences the final taste of your soup, so take the time to choose wisely.

Don’t Skimp on Seasoning

Proper seasoning is key when preparing Chicken Enchilada Soup. A common mistake is under-seasoning the broth or not balancing flavors adequately. Start with basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and cumin. As you build your soup, taste frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed. Consider adding lime juice or hot sauce for a zesty kick. The right amount of seasoning will bring out the flavors of your ingredients and create a more satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooking chicken can lead to dry and tough meat, which negatively impacts your Chicken Enchilada Soup’s overall texture. To prevent this, cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you’re using leftover chicken, simply heat it through before adding it to the soup. Alternatively, poaching or slow-cooking chicken in the soup itself allows for tender meat that absorbs all those delicious flavors without drying out.

Choose the Right Base

The base of your Chicken Enchilada Soup sets the stage for all other flavors to shine. Many recipes use canned soups or sauces that may lack depth. Instead, consider making a homemade broth from scratch or using high-quality store-bought options with minimal additives. Incorporate tomatoes, green chiles, and enchilada sauce into your base for a rich flavor profile. A well-crafted base will serve as a foundation for your soup, enhancing its overall appeal.

FAQs

FAQs:

What is Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Chicken Enchilada Soup is a flavorful dish inspired by traditional enchiladas but presented in a comforting soup form. It typically includes shredded chicken, tomatoes, black beans, corn, and various spices cooked in a savory broth. This dish often features enchilada sauce to give it that signature flavor along with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and avocado for added richness. It’s perfect as a hearty meal on chilly days or when you crave something warm and fulfilling.

How do I store leftover Chicken Enchilada Soup?

To properly store leftover Chicken Enchilada Soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months if you want to save some for later use. When reheating frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before warming them on the stove or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth during reheating can help restore its original consistency.

Can I make Chicken Enchilada Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily adapt Chicken Enchilada Soup into a vegetarian version by replacing chicken with hearty vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, you might consider incorporating plant-based proteins like beans or lentils to maintain a satisfying texture while keeping it nutritious. Adjust seasonings accordingly to ensure you achieve that classic enchilada flavor even without meat.

What are good toppings for Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Toppings play an essential role in enhancing your Chicken Enchilada Soup experience. Common toppings include shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for creaminess; diced avocado adds healthy fats; chopped cilantro provides freshness; sour cream offers tanginess; and crushed tortilla chips give crunchiness with every bite. Feel free to mix and match these toppings based on personal preference to create a delightful combination that complements your soup perfectly.

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Conclusion for Chicken Enchilada Soup:

In conclusion, preparing Chicken Enchilada Soup involves mindful choices regarding ingredients, seasoning techniques, cooking methods, and presentation styles that elevate this comforting dish into something extraordinary. By avoiding common pitfalls like under-seasoning or overcooking chicken while embracing fresh ingredients and custom toppings, you can create a mouthwatering meal that delights family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread or tortillas, this soup promises warmth and satisfaction in every bowl—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy making your unique version of this versatile recipe today!

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