Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe | Cozy, Spicy & Delicious

I recently made this chicken enchilada soup for dinner, and I have to tell you, it was like wrapping myself up in a warm, flavorful blanket! The bold Tex-Mex flavors, hearty chicken, and the rich, comforting broth make this soup an instant favorite.

What I love most is how easy it is to prepare, even on a busy weeknight. After just one bite, my family was asking for seconds, and I knew this recipe had to become a regular in my meal rotation. You can also enjoy similar quick chicken dishes like the Easy Rotisserie Chicken Tacos Recipe for another weeknight favorite.

If you’re looking for an approachable yet satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, this chicken enchilada soup is the answer. Packed with wholesome ingredients and the perfect spice level, it’s ideal for cozy dinners or even meal prep. For a twist on chicken with bold flavors, try the Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe as another easy option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, here’s why this chicken enchilada soup is sure to win your heart (and your taste buds).

1. Easy to Make

With just one pot and straightforward steps, this recipe is a breeze to whip together. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make it taste amazing! Plus, it doesn’t leave you with a sink full of dirty dishes.

2. Full of Flavor

Each bowl is loaded with bold enchilada-inspired flavors. From the smokiness of cumin and chili powder to the richness of tomatoes and the zestiness of green chilies, every bite is satisfying and exciting.

3. Customizable

Want to make it vegetarian? Prefer it dairy-free? Have leftover cooked chicken? No problem! This recipe can adapt easily to your preferences or whatever ingredients you have in your kitchen.

4. Meal Prep-Friendly

This soup stores beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It also freezes well, making it perfect for busy schedules.

5. Crowd-Pleaser

Serve it to your family, guests, or even at potlucks, and watch it disappear. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this soup appeals to everyone.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of how long you’ll need to dedicate to this recipe:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

You won’t need a long grocery list for this. Gather these key ingredients to get started:

Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Chicken broth
Diced tomatoes
Black beans
Corn kernels
Diced green chilies
Ground cumin
Chili powder
Salt
Pepper
Garnishes (cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro, sliced avocado, tortilla chips)

Variations

This soup is as flexible as it is delicious! Here are some tweaks you can try to suit your needs:

Dairy-Free: Skip the sour cream and cheese to make it dairy-free. Try topping with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt instead.
Vegetarian: Simply swap the chicken for more beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
Lower Carb: Skip the tortilla chips and use low-carb veggies, like cauliflower rice, as a side.

Equipment You’ll Need

Make sure to have these handy:

Large Soup Pot: To cook everything in one pot.
Wooden Spoon: For stirring ingredients and ensuring nothing sticks.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping onions, garlic, and chicken.
Serving Bowls: Present the soup in bowls for individual portions.

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup?

This recipe is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This creates a flavorful foundation.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add diced chicken breasts to the pot. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Build the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, and green chilies. Add ground cumin and chili powder, giving the soup its bold Tex-Mex kick. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer It All Together

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 15-20 minutes. The chicken will become tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and crispy tortilla chips or strips. These garnishes take the soup’s flavor and presentation to the next level!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and chopped onion deliver the best flavors.
Don’t Overcook: Once the chicken is cooked, resist the urge to over-simmer.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
Garnish Well: The toppings add flavor, creaminess, and crunch, so don’t skip them!

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup?

For the ultimate bowl of chicken enchilada soup, serve with a side of warm, crusty bread or a fresh salad. Presentation matters too! Use colorful bowls to highlight the vibrant garnishes. You can also serve lime wedges on the side for an extra splash of flavor.

For hearty appetites, pair the soup with a side of Mexican rice, or simply add extra tortilla chips for scooping.

Nutritional Information

This soup is a wholesome way to enjoy bold flavors without overindulging. Here’s a snapshot of what you’re getting in one serving:

Calories: 320
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning to make this soup in advance, you’re in luck! It’s perfect for meal prep:

Refrigeration

Once cooled, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tip!

Avoid adding garnishes before storing or freezing. Add them fresh right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Now that you’ve got all the details, it’s time to make your own chicken enchilada soup. One bowl and you’ll see why this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!

Ash Tyrrell