Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe

This Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or serve a crowd, this creamy and satisfying soup checks all the boxes. With its combination of tender chicken, zesty green chiles, and rich enchilada sauce, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set this recipe in motion and let it cook while you relax.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, this soup will keep you satisfied for hours.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheddar cheese, or tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy the comforting flavors without guilt; it’s a nutritious option that feels indulgent.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before starting.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time without constant monitoring.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for chopping ingredients efficiently, ensuring safety and ease during prep.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee consistency in your soup’s flavor profile every time you make it.

Ingredients

This Green Chile Chicken Soup is a simple, healthy and delicious soup that is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s creamy, hearty, full of flavor and sure to become a new family favorite.

For the Soup

• 2 cups cooked chicken (diced into 1/2 chunks)
• 2 15-ounce cans white beans (rinsed and drained)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed and softened)
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 4-ounce can green chiles
• 1 14-ounce can green enchilada sauce (or red)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups chicken broth

For Toppings

• 2 cups tortilla strips
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 large avocado (diced)
• Cilantro (fresh chopped)

How to Make Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In a slow cooker, add the cooked chicken, white beans, cream cheese, corn, green chiles, green enchilada sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined.

Step 2: Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and set it to high heat. Let the soup cook for about 2-3 hours or until it is hot throughout.

Step 3: Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with your choice of tortilla strips, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Green Enchilada Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe

Serving your Green Enchilada Chicken Soup can elevate the meal and make it more enjoyable for everyone at the table. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this flavorful dish.

Use Tortilla Strips

• Crunchy Texture: Add tortilla strips on top for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy soup.

Offer a Variety of Toppings

• Customization: Provide toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro so everyone can customize their bowl.

Serve with Fresh Lime Wedges

• Zesty Flavor: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for a bright and zesty flavor boost.

Pair with Warm Bread

• Comforting Side: Serve alongside warm crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious broth.

Create a Soup Bar

• Interactive Meal: Set up a soup bar where guests can choose their toppings and mix-ins, making it a fun interactive dining experience.

How to Perfect Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Green Enchilada Chicken Soup can enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out great every time.

• Bold Flavors: Consider adding extra spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
• Creaminess Factor: For an even creamier soup, blend in an additional cream cheese or use heavy cream.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and vegetables whenever possible to enhance freshness and taste.
• Slow Cooking: Allow the soup to cook longer on low heat if you have time; this melds flavors beautifully.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance and let it sit overnight in the fridge; flavors will deepen and improve.

Best Side Dishes for Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Green Enchilada Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with the flavors of enchiladas.
2. Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice dish seasoned with spices that complements the soup beautifully.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Lightly sweet muffins that add a wonderful contrast to the savory soup.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to your meal.
5. Chips and Salsa: Classic pairing that offers extra crunch and flavor alongside your hearty soup.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies provide a smoky addition that enhances the overall meal experience.
7. Cheesy Quesadillas: Melty cheese-filled quesadillas make for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
8. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the creamy texture of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Green Enchilada Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures – Using cold cream cheese may cause clumping. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth soup.
• Overcooking the soup – Cooking it too long can lead to mushy beans and chicken. Stick to the suggested cooking time for optimal texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Each broth varies in saltiness. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for a well-balanced flavor.
• Using low-quality canned products – Cheap canned chiles or beans can impact taste. Choose high-quality brands for the best flavor profile.
• Skipping toppings – Toppings enhance texture and flavor. Don’t skip adding cilantro, avocado, or cheddar for a delightful finish.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop – Warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus of the Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe?

This recipe focuses on creating a flavorful and creamy soup that combines chicken, green chiles, and white beans, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Can I use different proteins in the Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with turkey or even lamb based on your preference.

How do I customize my Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce.

Is this Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein from chicken and beans while being low in calories, making it a nutritious choice.

Conclusion

This Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you choose to customize it with your favorite ingredients or stick with the classic version, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any night of the week!

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