If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and flavorful meal, this Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe is the perfect choice. This one-pot wonder takes all the best elements of traditional enchiladas—savory shredded chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, and rich spices—and transforms them into a satisfying soup. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers on flavor and ease.
For anyone who loves enchiladas, this soup offers a fresh take. It’s loaded with the same vibrant flavors of enchiladas but in a spoonable form, making it both filling and fun to eat. Plus, the addition of toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado, and tortilla chips brings great texture and richness to every bite. If you’re a fan of enchilada-inspired meals, you’ll also enjoy our Crock Pot Enchiladas for an easy slow-cooker version of a classic dish. And to pair perfectly with this soup, don’t miss our Mexican Rice recipe, a side that complements the bold flavors of this dish.
Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These will become tender and easy to shred.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the soup with aromatic flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: A bit of acidity and mild heat.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid base for the soup.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: The star ingredient that brings the enchilada flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Perfectly pre-mixed spices that flavor the soup.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: For a creamy and rich finish.
Toppings (Optional but Recommended):
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds cheesy richness to every bowl.
- Sour cream: A cooling contrast to the spiciness.
- Chopped cilantro: A fresh herb that brightens the dish.
- Sliced avocado: Creamy and rich, a great garnish.
- Tortilla strips or chips: For crunch and added texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Enchilada Soup
This soup comes together in just one pot, making it simple, straightforward, and perfect for easy clean-up. Follow these steps to create this rich and hearty meal:
1: Cook the Chicken
- Start with the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the chicken breasts and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer Until Tender: Let the chicken cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set the shredded chicken aside for later.
2: Prepare the Soup Base
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add a little oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables and Beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn kernels, and black beans for added flavor and texture.
- Pour in Enchilada Sauce and Taco Seasoning: Add the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning to the pot, stirring well to incorporate the flavors. This step builds the foundation of the soup’s signature enchilada flavor.
3: Combine Everything
- Add the Shredded Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it in with the other ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the remaining chicken broth and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich, flavorful broth.
- Add the Cream Cheese: Stir in the softened cream cheese to give the soup a creamy, luxurious texture. Make sure the cream cheese melts fully and incorporates evenly into the soup.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Enchilada Soup
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
- Fresh Garlic and Onion: Freshly sautéed garlic and onion add a deep, rich flavor to the soup. Using powdered garlic or onion may save time, but the fresh ingredients provide a more robust base.
- Homemade Chicken Broth: While store-bought broth works just fine, homemade broth adds even more flavor. If you have time, making your own broth enhances the soup’s overall depth.
2. Adjust Spice Levels to Your Preference
- Control the Heat: You can easily adjust the spice level by choosing mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce and diced tomatoes with green chilies. If you prefer a spicier soup, add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
3. Creaminess and Texture
- Cream Cheese for Richness: Stirring in cream cheese gives the soup a rich, creamy texture. For an extra creamy version, you can also add a splash of heavy cream or stir in some sour cream before serving.
- Add Crunch with Tortilla Chips: Topping your soup with homemade or store-bought tortilla strips gives it a satisfying crunch. You can also serve the soup with crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
Substitutions and Variations for Chicken Enchilada Soup
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:
Substitutions:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra beans like pinto or kidney beans. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to create a hearty vegetarian soup.
- Gluten-Free Option: Make sure the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning you use are certified gluten-free. Many store-bought versions are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to double-check the labels.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make the soup dairy-free, omit the cream cheese or use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. You can also top the soup with plant-based cheese or dairy-free sour cream.
Flavor Variations:
- Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Soup: For an extra cheesy version, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese along with the cream cheese. This will give the soup a thicker, creamier texture and even more indulgent flavor.
- Spicy Chicken Enchilada Soup: If you enjoy a spicier dish, add some chopped jalapeños or a tablespoon of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to kick up the heat.
- Green Chicken Enchilada Soup: Swap out the red enchilada sauce for green enchilada sauce to create a tangy, slightly milder soup with a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup
While this soup is hearty and filling on its own, serving it with a few sides and beverages can elevate your meal even further. Here are a few ideas for how to serve your Chicken Enchilada Soup:
Side Dishes:
- Mexican Rice: A simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with this soup. Made with tomatoes, onions, and garlic, Mexican rice is the perfect complement to the rich flavors of the soup.
- Cornbread: A warm, sweet slice of cornbread is the ideal side to soak up the savory broth of the soup.
- Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Beverages:
- Margaritas: A tart, refreshing margarita cuts through the richness of the soup with its bright citrus flavor, making it the perfect pairing.
- Horchata: This sweet and creamy rice milk drink provides a cooling contrast to the spices in the soup, balancing out the heat.
- Mexican Beer: A cold, crisp beer like Corona, Pacifico, or Modelo pairs wonderfully with the bold, spicy flavors of the soup.
Nutritional Information for Chicken Enchilada Soup
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Chicken Enchilada Soup:
- Calories: 350-400 per serving
- Fat: 15-20 grams, primarily from the cream cheese and cheese toppings.
- Protein: 30-35 grams, thanks to the chicken and beans.
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams, depending on the amount of corn, beans, and tortilla chips used.
- Fiber: 5-7 grams, mostly from the beans and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Chicken Enchilada Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except for the cream cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese at the end, allowing it to melt and blend into the soup for a creamy finish.
Can I Freeze Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Absolutely. This soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat.
What Are the Best Toppings for Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Some of the best toppings for Chicken Enchilada Soup include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, and sliced avocado. These toppings add texture, richness, and additional flavor to each bowl.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken in This Soup?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe. Simply shred the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the soup when you add the beans and corn. Using rotisserie chicken can save time while still providing plenty of flavor.
Conclusion
This Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe is a fantastic way to bring all the flavors of a classic enchilada into a comforting, warm bowl of soup. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping. The combination of shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, beans, and cheese makes this dish hearty and satisfying. Plus, with the option to customize toppings like avocado, tortilla chips, and sour cream, everyone can enjoy it their own way.
Not only is this Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe easy to make, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to adjust the spice level or make substitutions based on your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy soups or creamy soups, this recipe offers something for everyone.
Serve this delicious soup with Mexican Rice or try it with Crock Pot Enchiladas for a complete and satisfying meal. This recipe will quickly become a go-to comfort dish that you’ll want to make over and over again. Enjoy making this flavorful and rich Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe!