This Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures and zesty flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. The comforting warmth of this soup will quickly turn it into a family favorite. Its simplicity in preparation and the use of wholesome ingredients make it ideal for those seeking a quick yet nutritious meal option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty soup cooking away while you attend to other tasks.
- Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and green enchilada sauce creates a rich, satisfying flavor that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite toppings or add more veggies to suit your family’s tastes.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, this soup offers nourishment without compromising on taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd or can be portioned for easy lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare the Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe, having the right tools can make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time without constant supervision.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient ratios for consistent results every time you make this soup.
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 Base
- 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 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 all ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Cook the Soup
Cover the slow cooker and set it to high heat. Allow the soup to cook for 2-3 hours or until heated through.
Step 3: Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top with tortilla strips or chips, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro as desired. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Green Enchilada Chicken Soup!
How to Serve Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe
Serving your Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe can enhance the experience for everyone at the table. This soup is versatile and pairs well with various toppings and sides, allowing each person to customize their bowl.
Add Toppings
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and a delightful crunch to your soup.
- Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the hot soup, enriching its flavor.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast that balances the spices.
- Fresh Avocado: Diced avocado adds a creaminess and healthy fats, perfect for making each bite satisfying.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro offers a fresh herbal note, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Pair with Bread
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the soup perfectly, making it a comforting meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for dipping and soaking up every drop of this delicious soup.
How to Perfect Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe
To ensure your Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Leftover Chicken: Using leftover rotisserie chicken can save time and enhance flavor without extra effort.
- Experiment with Spices: Adjust spices according to taste. Adding cumin or smoked paprika can give the soup an extra kick.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving; it adds creaminess without needing more dairy.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color in your soup.
- Cook Longer on Low Heat: If you have time, cooking on low heat enhances flavors as they meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup’s flavors wonderfully.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are rich and hearty, making them an excellent side choice for this dish.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans offer a nutritious addition that matches well.
- Salad with Lime Dressing: A fresh salad topped with lime dressing adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brings a delightful sweetness that pairs nicely with spicy dishes.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas are great for dipping into the soup or enjoying alongside it.
These sides will make your meal complete while complementing the delicious flavors of your green enchilada chicken soup. Enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making your Green Enchilada Chicken Soup.
- Not using enough seasoning: Many people forget to season their soup properly. Always taste and adjust your spices to enhance the flavor.
- Skipping the cream cheese: The cream cheese adds creaminess and balance. Don’t skip it; instead, ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Overcooking the soup: Cooking too long can lead to mushy beans and chicken. Follow the suggested cooking time for the best texture.
- Ignoring toppings: Toppings add flavor and texture; don’t overlook them! Experiment with different options like cheese or avocado for a delightful finish.
- Using low-quality broth: A flavorful broth is key to a great soup. Choose high-quality chicken broth, or make your own for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
- Leave some room at the top of the container for expansion.
Reheating Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot, heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred it and add it to the soup.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortillas or omit them entirely.
How can I customize this Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition. You can also adjust spice levels by adding jalapeños.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with cornbread, salad, or tortilla chips for dipping.
Final Thoughts
This Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy meal that your family will love!
Recipes
Green Enchilada Chicken Soup
Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is a deliciously creamy and zesty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this soup combines tender chicken, hearty white beans, and a rich blend of spices in a flavorful broth. With its quick preparation time and nutritious ingredients, it’s an ideal meal option for families looking for something satisfying yet healthy. Top it off with crispy tortilla strips, cheese, and fresh avocado for an exciting finish that will make this recipe a new family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (rinsed and drained)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 can (4 oz) green chiles
- 1 can (14 oz) green enchilada sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Seasonings: onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the cooked chicken, white beans, cream cheese, corn, green chiles, green enchilada sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and chicken broth. Mix until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high heat for 2-3 hours or until heated through.
- Serve hot in bowls topped with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
