Are you searching for a warm and comforting dish that delivers big on flavor and is simple to prepare? Look no further than Green Enchilada Chicken Soup! This delightful recipe brings the perfect balance of creaminess and zest. It’s seamlessly crafted to highlight hearty chicken, nutritious beans, and a touch of spice from green chiles and enchilada sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this soup can be prepared with ease, making it a must-try for any home cook. With the added bonus of customizable toppings, every bowl can be a unique creation that fits your cravings.
Imagine a pot of bubbling goodness simmering on the stove, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The star ingredients of this dish are pantry staples, meaning you can whip this up anytime the mood strikes. The creamy texture of melted cream cheese combined with the robust flavors of enchilada sauce makes this soup a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies and protein into your meal. Whether you serve it as a comforting dinner, an appetizing starter for a gathering, or even as a meal prep favorite, Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Green Enchilada Chicken Soup
- Quick Preparation: This recipe is easy to throw together and requires minimal prep time!
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices, creaminess, and optional toppings creates a depth of flavor.
- Customizable: You can modify the toppings and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup keeps you full and satisfied.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s crucial to set up your kitchen space properly. Start by gathering all your ingredients in one area, making sure you have everything ready to go. You’ll need a slow cooker, measuring cups, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. For the toppings, have small bowls available for serving shredded cheese, diced avocado, and tortilla strips.
When using the slow cooker, ensure it’s positioned on a stable surface, and take a moment to rinse and drain the white beans to get rid of any excess sodium. Having a good can opener will also be helpful for opening your canned goods swiftly. Lastly, consider having a ladle on hand for serving that delicious soup!
Ingredients
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 can (14 oz) green enchilada sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Start by placing all the primary ingredients into your slow cooker. This includes the cooked chicken, white beans, softened cream cheese, corn, diced green chiles, green enchilada sauce, spices, and chicken broth. Make sure to stir everything well until combined; you want those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Cook Until Creamy
With everything combined, cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the soup is hot and the cream cheese has melted into a creamy, cohesive mixture. Be sure to give it a gentle stir now and then to help with the blending of flavors.
Step 3: Serve With Your Favorite Toppings
Once your soup has reached the perfect temperature and consistency, it’s time to serve! Ladle the sumptuous soup into bowls and let your guests or family customize their own servings with toppings such as crisp tortilla strips, shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh avocado, and chopped cilantro for that extra burst of freshness and flavor.
Variations
- Protein: For a twist, swap out the chicken for turkey, beef, or even a vegan protein like tofu.
- Vegetables: Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Spices: Experiment with additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth.
- Be sure to soften the cream cheese before adding it to ensure it mixes properly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crispy corn tortillas or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread for dipping in the soup.
Tips
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch!
- Add 1/2 cup of lime juice before serving for a zingy touch.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours
- Total Time: 2–3 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: Varies based on broth and seasoning choices
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just add it to the slow cooker at the beginning and cook for longer until fully cooked through (approximately 4-5 hours on low).
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just be sure to leave off the toppings until you’re ready to serve.
Is this soup spicy?
The spice level is mild; however, you can adjust it by adding more chili powder or jalapeños based on your preference.
Conclusion
Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience best enjoyed with family and friends. From the creamy texture to the hearty components, everything about this dish brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you follow the recipe as is or customize it to cater to your taste, you are guaranteed a delightful dish. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any creative variations you’ve tried in the comments below. Now, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a bowl of this amazing soup—you won’t regret it!
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Green Enchilada Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 2–3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is a warm and comforting dish that delivers big on flavor and is simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 can (14 oz) green enchilada sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Start by placing all the primary ingredients into your slow cooker. This includes the cooked chicken, white beans, softened cream cheese, corn, diced green chiles, green enchilada sauce, spices, and chicken broth. Make sure to stir everything well until combined; you want those flavors to meld together beautifully.
- With everything combined, cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the soup is hot and the cream cheese has melted into a creamy, cohesive mixture. Be sure to give it a gentle stir now and then to help with the blending of flavors.
- Once your soup has reached the perfect temperature and consistency, it’s time to serve! Ladle the sumptuous soup into bowls and let your guests or family customize their own servings with toppings such as crisp tortilla strips, shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh avocado, and chopped cilantro for that extra burst of freshness and flavor.
Notes
For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth. Be sure to soften the cream cheese before adding it to ensure it mixes properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: Varies based on broth and seasoning choices
- Protein: 24 g