The aroma of Chicken Enchilada Soup wafting through the air is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine a steaming bowl filled with tender chicken, spicy enchilada sauce, and just the right amount of creaminess—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. spicy chicken burrito recipe Every spoonful bursts with flavor, inviting you to dive in and savor each bite like it’s your last.
Now, let’s be honest: what’s better than cozying up with friends or family, sharing laughter and stories over this delightful dish? I can still hear my grandma’s laughter as she stirred her famous soup, claiming that a “pinch of love” was the secret ingredient. Whether it’s game day or a casual weeknight dinner, this Chicken Enchilada Soup will bring everyone together and keep them coming back for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Enchilada Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze even on busy nights.
- The flavors are bold and comforting, creating a memorable meal that satisfies all cravings.
- Its vibrant colors will brighten up your table and delight your guests.
- Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a hearty base; feel free to adjust based on your crowd.
- Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves pack a punch; choose firm ones for the best flavor.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even cooking.
- Enchilada Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought variety or homemade for extra flair; it really amps up the flavor.
- Canned Black Beans: Rinse and drain them for an added protein boost; they provide great texture too.
- Corn: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch; frozen or canned works perfectly here.
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your soup.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; chop it finely to sprinkle on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion and mince the garlic while your chicken breasts are ready for action.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot over medium heat, add some oil and cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove them from the pot once cooked through.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). It should smell like heaven in there!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Shred the cooked chicken using two forks (it’s therapeutic!). Add it back into the pot along with enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until combined.
Step 5: Simmer Away
Bring your concoction to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it bubble away for about 20 minutes—this allows all those flavors to dance together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve Up
Ladle your Chicken Enchilada Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. You can also add sour cream or cheese if you want to get fancy!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every warm bite of this comforting soup that feels like home in a bowl.
You Must Know
- This Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul.
- It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
- The colorful ingredients create a feast for the eyes while offering comfort in every spoonful.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your chicken to sear. Cook the veggies next while the chicken simmers in broth, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Finish with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or beans for a vegetarian option. Add some corn or black olives for extra texture. A splash of lime juice can really brighten up those flavors too!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a little water if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use rotisserie chicken to save time and enhance flavor—no one will know you didn’t cook it from scratch!
- For creamier soup, consider adding a dollop of sour cream when serving.
- Finally, don’t skimp on garnishes; they elevate your dish visually and taste-wise!
I once made this Chicken Enchilada Soup for a potluck, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even demanded I bring it again next time—talk about pressure!
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Enchilada Soup?
To make a delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need several key ingredients. Start with shredded chicken, either cooked or rotisserie. You’ll also need onion and garlic for flavor, along with diced tomatoes, green chilies, and chicken broth. Spices like cumin, chili powder, and salt will enhance the taste. Don’t forget to add black beans and corn for texture and nutrition. Finally, top your soup with shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, and tortilla strips for added flavor and crunch.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Preparing Chicken Enchilada Soup is quick and easy. The total time from start to finish usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. If you have pre-cooked chicken on hand, you can save even more time. Sautéing the onions and garlic takes around 5 minutes, while simmering the soup requires another 20 minutes to meld the flavors together. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet simple.
Can I freeze Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Enchilada Soup! Freezing it is a great way to preserve leftovers for future meals. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
What can I serve with Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Chicken Enchilada Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Consider serving it alongside warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for dipping. A fresh salad topped with avocado or a simple coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the soup. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top of each bowl enhances both flavor and presentation.
Conclusion for Chicken Enchilada Soup
In summary, Chicken Enchilada Soup is a satisfying dish that combines flavorful ingredients in a comforting broth. With shredded chicken, spices, and vegetables, this recipe offers both nutrition and taste in every bite. It’s quick to prepare and can easily be frozen for later use. chicken pasta salad option Whether you serve it on its own or with sides like tortilla chips or salad, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. classic Caesar salad recipe kale Caesar salad recipe Enjoy making this delightful meal any day of the week!
Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and colorful ingredients that come together in one comforting bowl. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this hearty soup is easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. In just under an hour, you can warm up your home and satisfy everyone at the table with this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and cook the shredded chicken until heated through.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; sauté until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and chicken broth; mix well.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh cilantro. Optional: add sour cream or cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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