If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish to warm your soul, look no further than this Creamy Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup. This delicious Tex-Mex inspired recipe combines the rich flavors of tender chicken, creamy cheese, zesty green chiles, and savory spices into a delightful soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also a breeze to make—simply toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you unwind with your family or friends.
This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The layers of flavor from the onion and garlic powders combined with the warming chili powder create a savory base that’s both satisfying and comforting. The cream cheese adds a richness that balances beautifully with the fresh avocado and tangy sour cream, making each spoonful a delightful treat. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or even a party favorite, this creamy soup is sure to impress your guests.
What makes this dish even more appealing is its simplicity. With minimal preparation and easy-to-find ingredients, it fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle while still being packed with nutrition. Plus, with its adaptability for various diets, including Halal options, everyone at your table can enjoy a comforting bowl of deliciousness. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into making this eternally cozy Creamy Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Effortless Preparation: Just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it simmer.
- Rich and Comforting Flavors: A perfect blend of spices and creaminess defines each bite.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken, beans, and veggies, this soup is wholesome.
- Flexibility: Easily adaptable to your taste by including your favorite toppings.
- Meal-Prepping Friendly: Perfect for leftovers that can last days in the fridge.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you get started on making this delicious soup, it’s a great idea to ensure your kitchen is all set for a smooth cooking experience. Begin by gathering your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a slow cooker, a large cutting board, and a sharp knife for dicing the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Measuring cups and spoons will help ensure you get the proportions just right.
Also, prepare your work area by cleaning up any clutter—this will help you stay organized and focused, especially since you’ll want to have everything ready to stir into the slow cooker. While most of the ingredients are straightforward, ensuring your cream cheese is softened ahead of time will help it blend seamlessly into the soup. Having cans of beans and corn fully rinsed and drained will also streamline your cooking process, making it quick to toss everything together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced into ½-inch chunks
- 2 (15-oz) cans white beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 (4-oz) can green chiles
- 1 (14-oz) can green enchilada sauce (or red)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Toppings: 2 cups tortilla strips, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup sour cream, 1 large avocado (diced), Fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Begin by adding the cooked chicken to your slow cooker along with the rinsed white beans, softened cream cheese, corn, green chiles, and green enchilada sauce. These ingredients work together to form the base of your creamy soup. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and chicken broth. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the cream cheese integrates well with the other ingredients. This is crucial for achieving that creamy texture you desire.
Step 2: Set Up Your Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker lid tightly after you’ve combined all ingredients. Set the slow cooker on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours. One of the advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience of being able to walk away while your meal cooks. Make sure to stir the mixture halfway through the cooking time to promote even melting of the cream cheese, which adds to the soup’s silkiness. This step greatly enhances the final texture of your soup.
Step 3: Final Touches
As the timer approaches its end, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed—this might mean adding an extra pinch of chili powder for spice or squeezing in some lime juice for a hint of acidity. This step is vital as it allows you to customize the flavors according to your preference. Once the soup is hot, creamy, and flavorful, it’s time to serve. Ladle it into bowls and prepare for the fun part!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute diced cooked turkey for chicken or even use shredded beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add in bell peppers or diced tomatoes for added texture and nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with smoked paprika or cumin for a smokier flavor and a little kick.
Cooking Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
- If you want a bit of heat, consider using hot green chiles or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with crispy tortilla strips for a delightful crunch.
- Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Tips
- Make sure to have your toppings ready before the soup finishes cooking—this will allow for faster serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and they actually taste even better the next day!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-5 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes! If you prefer fresh chicken, you can add raw chicken breast to the slow cooker, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
Substituting the regular enchilada sauce with a gluten-free variety will make this soup safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Just make sure to let it cool fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs nicely with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with nachos for an added crunch.
Conclusion
This Creamy Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort in a bowl. The combination of creamy textures, savory spices, and the heartiness of chicken and beans make it a favorite in any home. Whether you’re searching for an easy weeknight meal or a delicious option for entertaining guests, this soup ticks all the boxes. Savor the delightful flavors, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish to warm your soul, look no further than this Creamy Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup…
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced into ½-inch chunks
- 2 (15-oz) cans white beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 (4-oz) can green chiles
- 1 (14-oz) can green enchilada sauce (or red)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Toppings: 2 cups tortilla strips, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup sour cream, 1 large avocado (diced), Fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Begin by adding the cooked chicken to your slow cooker along with the rinsed white beans, softened cream cheese, corn, green chiles, and green enchilada sauce. These ingredients work together to form the base of your creamy soup. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and chicken broth. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the cream cheese integrates well with the other ingredients. This is crucial for achieving that creamy texture you desire.
- Cover the slow cooker lid tightly after you’ve combined all ingredients. Set the slow cooker on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours. One of the advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience of being able to walk away while your meal cooks. Make sure to stir the mixture halfway through the cooking time to promote even melting of the cream cheese, which adds to the soup’s silkiness. This step greatly enhances the final texture of your soup.
- As the timer approaches its end, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed—this might mean adding an extra pinch of chili powder for spice or squeezing in some lime juice for a hint of acidity. This step is vital as it allows you to customize the flavors according to your preference. Once the soup is hot, creamy, and flavorful, it’s time to serve. Ladle it into bowls and prepare for the fun part!
Notes
For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the slow cooker. If you want a bit of heat, consider using hot green chiles or a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-5 hours
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 20 g