Chicken Enchilada Soup

Warm up with a bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup, a creamy, spicy, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Made with tender shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and a blend of spices, this soup delivers all the bold flavors of enchiladas in a comforting, one-pot meal. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot, this recipe is easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

• Fast & Simple – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Rich & Creamy – A thick, satisfying texture loaded with cheesy goodness.
• One-Pot Meal – Less cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level and toppings to your liking!

Essential Ingredients for the Best Chicken Enchilada Soup

To create the most delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great option!)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings & Spices:

• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup

Stovetop Method:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add chicken broth, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and seasonings.
3. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add Chicken & Cream: Stir in shredded chicken and heavy cream, cooking for another 5 minutes.
5. Melt the Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until fully melted and smooth.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings!

Slow Cooker Method:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients (except cream and cheese) to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low: Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. Finish with Cream & Cheese: Stir in cream and cheese 15 minutes before serving.

Instant Pot Method:

1. Sauté: Use the sauté function to cook the onions and garlic.
2. Pressure Cook: Add all other ingredients (except cream and cheese) and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Quick Release & Finish: Stir in cream and cheese, then serve.

Best Toppings for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Elevate your Chicken Enchilada Soup with these irresistible toppings:

• Tortilla strips – Adds a satisfying crunch.
• Sour cream – Balances the spice with creaminess.
• Fresh avocado – A rich, buttery touch.
• Chopped cilantro – Adds freshness and a burst of color.
• Jalapeños – For an extra spicy kick!

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for extra beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I make it spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or use a spicier enchilada sauce.

What’s the best cheese for enchilada soup?

A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds great flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Enchilada Soup is the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and hearty goodness. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and let us know how you liked it!

Have a favorite twist on Chicken Enchilada Soup? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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