There’s something undeniably soul-soothing about a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup. Picture this: a rich, velvety broth hugging tender chicken pieces, swimming with vibrant veggies and spices that dance on your taste buds like they’re auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that says, “You’re home.” This is not just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. For more inspiration, check out this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
Now, I must confess, my love affair with this recipe started on a chilly evening when my friend tried to convince me that soup couldn’t be a meal. Challenge accepted! With a spoonful of this creamy goodness, I transformed him from soup skeptic to soup devotee in one fell swoop. Whether it’s game night or a cozy dinner for two, this dish will always be the star of the show. Trust me; once you take that first spoonful, you’ll be hooked!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Its rich flavors and creamy texture will satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and a great conversation starter at any table.
- It’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; feel free to adjust based on your guest list.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even cooking.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for an aromatic punch that elevates the flavor profile.
- Bell Peppers: Any color will do; they add crunch and color to your hearty soup.
- Corn Kernels: Frozen or fresh corn adds sweetness and texture; it’s like sunshine in your bowl!
For the Broth:
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still delivering rich flavor.
- Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient that makes everything creamy and dreamy.
For Seasoning:
- Enchilada Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version; it brings all the flavors together beautifully!
- Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices will kick things up a notch; don’t skimp on these essentials!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add some olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they turn translucent—about five minutes should do the trick. Enjoy those savory smells wafting through your kitchen.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Next up, add those boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the pot along with diced bell peppers. Cook them until they’re no longer pink—about six minutes per side works wonders.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Once your chicken is cooked through, pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer gently. Add corn kernels at this stage too! Allow everything to mingle for about ten minutes—trust me; patience is key here.
Step 4: Spice Things Up
While waiting, mix enchilada sauce with cumin and chili powder in a separate bowl. After ten minutes have passed, stir this spicy concoction into your simmering soup.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Now comes the magic moment! Add cream cheese to the pot while stirring constantly until everything blends into a creamy dreamland of flavor.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Ladle generous portions into bowls and top with garnishes like cilantro or avocado slices if you’re feeling fancy. Dive right in!
This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience—a culinary adventure that warms you from the inside out. So grab your spoon and get ready to indulge in pure comfort!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken enchilada soup combines a delightful mix of flavors, perfect for cozy evenings.
- It’s customizable, colorful, and packs a punch of comfort.
- Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to please!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your chicken to sear. While that cooks, prepare the broth and spices in another pot. Finally, combine everything for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or beans for a vegetarian option. You can also play with toppings like avocado, cheese, or fresh cilantro to match your mood!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For incredibly tender chicken, let it simmer longer than you think.
- Always taste as you go; seasoning is key!
- Don’t skip garnishes; they elevate the presentation and flavor significantly.
Sometimes I whip up this creamy chicken enchilada soup when friends visit, and their smiles say it all. It’s become our unofficial comfort food that sparks laughter and great conversations around the table. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?
To make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, you will need cooked shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, cream cheese, chicken broth, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and spices such as cumin and chili powder. Fresh cilantro and lime juice can enhance the flavor. You can also add toppings like shredded cheese and avocado for a delicious finish. This combination creates a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
How long does Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup take to prepare?
Preparing Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is quite quick and easy. It generally takes about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep the vegetables. Cooking the soup on the stove usually takes around 20-30 minutes until it’s hot and well combined. Thus, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup in about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup in advance?
Yes, you can absolutely make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup in advance! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. The flavors may even deepen after sitting overnight!
What are some variations of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?
You can customize Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup in various ways to suit your palate. Consider substituting turkey for chicken or using vegetarian protein sources like beans or tofu for a meatless option. Chipotle ranch grilled chicken burrito For added spice, include jalapeños or chipotle peppers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Conclusion for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup:
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures effortlessly. With simple ingredients such as shredded chicken, black beans, and creamy enchilada sauce, this recipe offers both comfort and taste. crunchy broccoli salad Whether you choose to customize it with various toppings or sides, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it fresh or as leftovers; either way, it’s a fantastic meal option!
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 bowls 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and busy weeknights. This delicious dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy broth infused with zesty enchilada sauce and colorful vegetables. Each spoonful delivers a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Customizable to suit your tastes, this soup promises to be a favorite for all!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add chicken breasts and diced bell peppers to the pot. Cook until chicken is no longer pink (approximately 6 minutes per side).
- Pour in the chicken broth and add corn kernels. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix enchilada sauce with cumin and chili powder. Stir into the soup after simmering.
- Add cream cheese to the pot, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
- Serve hot with garnishes like cilantro or avocado.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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