Name: Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 0.5 teaspoon chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon mustard powder; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.25 teaspoon cumin; 1 pinch cinnamon; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 each yellow onion, diced; 1 each jalapeno pepper, diced (seeds removed); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 10 oz red enchilada sauce; 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained); 15 oz black beans (drained and rinsed); 15 oz canned whole kernel corn (drained); 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (or 2 small. see notes if using cooked chicken); 4 oz cream cheese (cubed and softened); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded); 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded. Can also use more cheddar.)

Introduction to Chicken Enchilada Soup

Why Chicken Enchilada Soup is a Must-Try for Young Professionals

If you're a young professional juggling a busy schedule, you'll want meals that are not just quick to prepare but also comforting and delicious. Enter chicken enchilada soup — the perfect fusion of flavor and convenience. Imagine coming home after a long day, the enticing aroma of spices wrapping around you like a warm hug as you whip up this hearty dish in under 45 minutes.

Not only is this soup chock-full of nourishing ingredients like chicken and beans, but it’s also customizable! Use leftover chicken, throw in extra veggies, or add your favorite spices to make it uniquely yours. The beauty of chicken enchilada soup lies in its simplicity, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. You can easily scale the recipe to have multiple servings ready to go for the week, saving precious time on busy evenings.

Plus, with its delicious blend of layers (thanks to the enchilada sauce), every bite feels like a mini fiesta! And let's be honest—who doesn't love a dish that brings comfort and joy after a hectic day? So why not give it a try? Your future self will thank you! For more inspiration on easy and tasty meals, check out this resource.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup

When it comes to crafting the perfect chicken enchilada soup, having the right ingredients is essential. Let’s break down what you’ll need!

Essential Pantry Ingredients

These basics are usually found in most kitchens and create a solid foundation for the soup:

Seasonings: Chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper bring the flavor to life.
Canned Goods: Grab some red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. These convenient ingredients add depth and texture.
Broth: A good quality chicken broth is key—it enhances the savory notes of the soup.

Fresh Ingredients for Flavor

To elevate your chicken enchilada soup:

Produce: A yellow onion for sweetness, a jalapeño for heat (don’t forget to remove the seeds!), and fresh garlic for that aromatic punch.
Proteins: Use a boneless, skinless chicken breast or even leftover chicken for a quick prep.
Dairy: Cream cheese and shredded cheese add creaminess and a satisfying finish.

With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be on your way to a deliciously rich and hearty bowl of soup! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out the USDA’s guide on cooking with pantry staples.

Step-by-step preparation of Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making a delicious chicken enchilada soup doesn't have to be complicated! With a few simple steps, you can whip up a hearty meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Let’s dive in!

Gather and prepare the ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to have everything ready to go. Here’s a quick checklist:

Seasonings: Gather your chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
Main Ingredients: Make sure you have your chicken breast (or leftover chicken), red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and any cheeses you plan to use.
Vegetables: Dice your yellow onion and jalapeño, and mince the garlic.
Liquids: Don't forget your chicken broth and hot sauce (if you like a bit of heat!).

This prep work will have you ready to cook efficiently!

Sauté the base ingredients

In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the diced onion and jalapeño, sautéing them for about 4 minutes until they become soft. Follow this by adding the minced garlic and cooking for an additional minute. The aroma of these sautéed vegetables will already have your kitchen smelling amazing!

Add chicken and simmer the blend

Next, it’s time to introduce your chicken. Pat the chicken breast dry, seasoning both sides with salt and pepper. Add it to the pot along with your remaining ingredients—enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir it all together, and bring the mix to a gentle boil. This step is critical: simmering gently for about 15-20 minutes helps keep your chicken tender while infusing the soup with flavor.

Shred the chicken and mix in the cheeses

Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot. Using two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and then return it to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until well combined. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mixing until they melt and create that deliciously creamy texture you crave in chicken enchilada soup.

Final touches and serving

Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasonings as necessary. You might find it needs that little extra kick! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, like diced avocado, cilantro, or additional cheese. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting essence of your homemade chicken enchilada soup!

For even more flavor variations, check out this article on creative soup toppings and garnishes to elevate your dish! Happy cooking!

Variations on Chicken Enchilada Soup

Vegetarian Enchilada Soup

Looking for a meatless option? Try a vegetarian enchilada soup! Simply replace the chicken with your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and even sweet potatoes. You can also throw in some lentils or chickpeas for added protein. With the same delicious enchilada sauce and spices, you’ll hardly miss the meat.

Spicy Enchilada Soup with Additional Toppings

If you love a kick, elevate your chicken enchilada soup by adding extra jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Top with pickled onions, fresh cilantro, or crunchy tortilla strips for texture. For an extra creamy finish, consider a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. Not only will these toppings enhance the flavor, but they also make your soup visually appealing!

Looking to explore more variations? Explore this article for further inspiration!

Cooking tips and notes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Using fresh vs. leftover chicken

When making your chicken enchilada soup, using fresh chicken gives a richer flavor. Boneless thighs or breasts work perfectly! However, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken, use about 2 cups, and add them about 15 minutes before serving to soak up the soup's deliciousness without overcooking.

Adjusting spice levels

Spice tolerance varies, and this soup can be adjusted to suit your taste! Start with mild enchilada sauce, and gradually add cayenne pepper or hot sauce until you reach your desired heat level. Remember, you can always add more, but removing spice is trickier! For readers eager for even more heat, consider a spicy cheddar for a delightful twist.

For additional cooking tips, check out American Heart Association for more healthy cooking ideas!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Complementing Sides and Garnishes

To elevate your Chicken Enchilada Soup, consider serving it with crunchy tortilla chips or warm, homemade cornbread. Fresh toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime can brighten up the dish. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the spices in the soup. For added texture, try crumbled tortilla strips or even some zesty pickled onions!

Perfect Pairing Drinks

A refreshing drink really enhances your dining experience. Try pairing your Chicken Enchilada Soup with a zesty limeade or a sweet mango iced tea. If you're in the mood for something warm, a cup of spiced hot chocolate with a hint of cinnamon works wonderfully too! These drinks not only quench your thirst but also complement the robust flavors of the soup.

For more serving tips, check out this guide on The Best Soup Pairings.

Time Breakdown for Chicken Enchilada Soup

When you're ready to whip up a comforting bowl of chicken enchilada soup, timing is everything. Here's how the cooking clock breaks down:

Preparation Time

In just 10 minutes, you can gather all the ingredients and get everything prepped for a delightful cooking experience.

Cooking Time

Let the flavors meld together with a 35-minute cooking time. Watch as your kitchen fills with aromas that will have everyone asking what's for dinner!

Total Time

All in all, you'll need about 45 minutes from start to serve. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch!

If you want to dive deeper into the recipe, check our full guide on making chicken enchilada soup. It’s a dish that brings together the warmth of home cooking with simple ingredients — and trust me, it’s worth every minute!

For further inspiration, you can explore resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats for tips on enhancing flavors.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Calories per serving

Each cup of this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup contains approximately 242 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet light option for lunch or dinner, perfect for those looking to enjoy flavorful meals without the guilt.

Protein content

With its rich combination of chicken and cheese, this soup packs a hearty 16 grams of protein per serving. Adding lean sources of protein helps keep you full longer, making it an excellent choice for a busy day!

Sodium level

On average, each serving holds about 800 mg of sodium. It’s essential to monitor your sodium intake, especially if you’re watching your salt consumption. Consider using low-sodium broth and rinsing canned ingredients to keep those levels in check while still enjoying this comforting bowl!

For more nutritional insights, you can visit MyFitnessPal to track your daily intake!

FAQs about Chicken Enchilada Soup

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken on hand, it can be easily incorporated into your chicken enchilada soup. Just add the frozen chicken to the pot along with the other ingredients. Since it might take a bit longer to cook through, plan to simmer the soup for about an additional 10-15 minutes. This ensures you're still left with that juicy, flavorful chicken we all crave.

What should I do if the soup is too spicy?

If your chicken enchilada soup packs more heat than you'd like, there are a few ways to mellow it out. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can help balance the spice. You can also stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk to tone down the heat while making it delightfully creamy. If you love cooking, consider checking out this article for more tips on balancing flavors.

How can I store leftovers properly?

Storing your chicken enchilada soup is a breeze! Just transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It stores well for up to 3 months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain its creamy texture.

Conclusion on Chicken Enchilada Soup

In conclusion, this Chicken Enchilada Soup is the perfect cozy dish to please family and friends alike. With its rich combination of flavors and easy preparation methods, it's sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings and share the warmth!