Looking for a cozy dinner that packs a punch? Try my Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup! It's rich, flavorful, and simple to make. You’ll love how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, this soup is sure to impress your family. Ready to dive into a bowl of warmth? Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Creamy: This soup brings warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices, chicken, and creamy texture creates a deliciously satisfying soup that everyone loves.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Tortilla strips for serving
To make this creamy chicken enchilada soup, gather your ingredients first. Start with olive oil. It gives the soup a nice base and rich flavor. Next, you need a medium onion and garlic. They add depth and aroma to the dish.
The spices are key in this recipe. Ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika will brighten the flavors. They create that signature enchilada taste.
For the broth, use four cups of chicken broth. It brings moisture and richness. Add two cups of cooked chicken. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.
Don’t forget the vegetables! One can of black beans and one can of diced tomatoes with green chilies add texture and flavor. You can also use one cup of corn. Fresh, frozen, or canned corn are all great options.
For a creamy finish, stir in one cup of heavy cream. It makes the soup rich and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For toppings, grab one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips. These add a delightful crunch and color to your soup.
With these ingredients, you are ready to create a warm, flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Process
1. Heat oil and sauté onions
First, grab a large pot. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Turn the heat to medium. Add 1 medium onion, diced. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it softens.
2. Add spices and garlic for flavor
Next, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes until it smells amazing.
3. Combine broth and main ingredients
Now, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Add 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 can of black beans (15 oz), 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 cup of corn. Mix everything well.
4. Cooking time for flavor melding
Bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together nicely.
5. Final steps and seasoning
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will thicken the soup. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Now, it's time to enjoy your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
Using rotisserie chicken makes this soup quick and easy to prepare. Just shred the chicken and add it to the pot. This saves time and still offers great flavor.
To thicken the soup, let it simmer longer. You can also add a bit more heavy cream. If you want a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
Presentation Tips
Serve the soup in colorful bowls. This adds a fun touch to your dinner table. You can also top each bowl with a lime wedge. It gives a zesty kick and brightens the dish.
For extra flair, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. It adds color and a fresh taste. Don't forget crispy tortilla strips for crunch!
Pro Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and flavorful option, opt for store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time on preparation.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier variety of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
- Thicken the Soup: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in before serving.
- Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation by adding slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream alongside the cheese and cilantro.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for extra beans or lentils. Use vegetable broth to keep it flavorful. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. If you want a different protein, try turkey or beef. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well, but cooked shrimp is also a fun choice.
Flavor Adjustments
For spice levels, you can add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños. If you like it milder, reduce the spices or add more cream. For added texture, consider adding diced avocado or crunchy tortilla strips. You could also mix in some fresh corn or even a scoop of sour cream on top. This gives a nice creaminess and balances the heat.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
You can keep the creamy chicken enchilada soup in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container. This helps keep the soup fresh and tasty. If you are not sure you will eat it soon, consider freezing it instead.
Freezing
To freeze the soup, let it cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze the soup for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir it often to ensure it heats evenly. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture. Enjoy every spoonful!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use different beans? Yes, you can use different beans. Pinto beans or kidney beans work well. Just rinse and drain them before adding.
How to make it spicier? To add heat, use more chili powder or diced jalapeños. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. Adjust to your taste.
Can I use non-dairy alternatives? Yes, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. This keeps the soup creamy without dairy.
What to pair with Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup? Serve this soup with crispy tortilla strips and a side salad. A lime wedge adds a nice touch too.
How can I make this soup ahead of time? You can make the soup a day in advance. Store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving, and add fresh toppings.
This blog post covers everything you need for a delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup. We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to perfect your dish. You learned variations and how to store it properly.
Enjoy cooking this hearty soup. Feel free to experiment with flavors and toppings. This recipe is meant for sharing, so invite friends and family to enjoy your tasty creation. Happy cooking!
