Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight

Published by Ilyas, Date :

Delicious bowl of savory chicken enchilada soup topped with fresh ingredients

Soup Recipes

Recipe 02316a6156

Quick & Delicious Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight

Ah, the magic of soups—simple, comforting, and unfailingly delicious. I remember the day I stumbled upon the Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight. It was one of those rainy afternoons when the storm outside made everything feel cozy, and I suddenly craved some healthy comfort food. I rummaged through my pantry, looked at my random collection of ingredients, and, for once, everything seemed to fall into place.

I happened to have some chicken leftover from last night’s dinner (always a win when you can use leftovers) and a can of enchilada sauce that had been hiding in the back of my cupboard, just waiting for its moment to shine. As I read through the recipe, I felt the familiar warmth of nostalgia wash over me. This wasn’t just soup; it was a link to my childhood when my mom would whip up something hearty and warm on those chilly evenings.

The idea of a hearty bowl of this savory soup made me feel like I was wrapping my hands around a cozy blanket, paired with that delightful aroma swirling around my kitchen. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like the smell of spices mingling with tenderness of chicken; it’s like a warm hug for your senses. Plus, let’s be real, who doesn’t love a quick, budget-friendly meal that’s all about easy weeknight dinners? Just imagine sitting down with a bowl of this soup, a sprinkle of cilantro on top, and a cheesy smile on your face.

So, let’s dive deep into this delightful recipe. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fast & Easy: Whipping this dish up takes no time at all, which is great for those hectic weeknights when you feel like you could star in your own little cooking disaster reality show.
  • Comforting & Filling: Every spoonful feels like a hug. Just a few bites in, and you’ll feel your worries melting away.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Seriously, this soup stores beautifully. It’s a high protein meal that you can make in bulk and eat throughout the week. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to have some ready-made solutions in the fridge!
  • Kid-Approved: Picky eaters? No problem. The flavors are approachable, and who doesn’t love cheesy goodness?
  • IDEAL for Leftovers: You can make a big batch and have it for lunch or dinner the next day. Leftover enchantment at its finest, my friend!
  • Versatile: Feel free to customize it to suit your taste. Add veggies, ditch the beans, or jazz it up with some avocado.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

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The beauty of this soup is in its rich flavors and delightful textures. The creamy enchilada sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, while the black beans bring a hearty bite and a boost of high protein goodness. Then there’s the corn, adding a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spices. Honestly, it’s like Mexico and my kitchen had a delicious baby! I could shout about its taste from the rooftops!

Layering those flavors is a hallmark of comfort cooking. As everything simmers, you can practically hear the ingredients singing a melodious tune from the pot. Not to mention, adding cheese at the end? That’s the cherry on top of this flavor bomb. It makes it so luscious and velvety, you’ll find yourself wishing for another bowl.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb of chicken breast, cooked and shredded
    This will be the backbone of your soup. I usually roast or boil my chicken ahead of time. Don’t go for the pre-cooked stuff though; use fresh chicken if you can—trust me, flavor matters!

  • 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
    Grab your favorite brand; I lean toward spicy for that kick! Just make sure it’s not too salty as we’ll season it later.

  • 4 cups of chicken broth
    Store-bought is fine, but if you’ve got homemade sitting in your freezer, then, by all means, use it! It adds depth of flavor that means you didn’t waste hours in the kitchen (because that’s not my style!).

  • 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, rinsed and drained
    These little gems not only offer a great texture but also pack in the protein and fiber. If you’re in a crunch, go with canned black beans—they keep it budget-friendly and flavorful.

  • 1 can (15 oz) of corn, drained
    Sweet, crunchy corn brings a pop of color and flavor. Just don’t leave it out. You’ll thank me later!

  • 1 cup of diced tomatoes
    Fresh is delicious, but canned tomatoes make it a lot easier. They add a pleasant acidity that cuts through the richness of the soup.

  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
    Ah, the earthy aroma of cumin! It’s quintessential in adding that Mexican flair.

  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
    Bring on the warmth! Adjust to your heat tolerance; I’ll admit, I tend to go wild!

  • Salt and pepper, to taste
    Start with a pinch! You always want to taste as you go. We’re not aimlessly salting here.

  • 1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)
    You can absolutely do this without cheese, but oh, what joy it adds! Go for cheddar or Monterey Jack—the cheesier, the better!

  • Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
    Fresh herbs brighten everything up! It’s like the cherry on top of your sundae.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, folks, let’s get our hands dirty and whip up this soup. Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through every step, likely while narrating my daydreams about where I’ll be next after this meal.

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chicken broth and enchilada sauce. Now, hold on! Let’s pause for a moment. The mix of these two leading characters creates the base; that rich, savory liquid is what dreams are made of. Honestly, I could sip it straight from a cup. Not judging!

  2. Add the Rest: Toss in your black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. The sight of those bright colors meshing together is always a thrill! If you’ve got a partner helping in the kitchen, take a moment to be the culinary cheerleader of the team—go on, toss that can of corn in like confetti.

  3. Season it Up: Now, add in that beautiful shredded chicken, followed by cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, and let those flavors mingle for a while. At this moment, I usually take a deep, fulfilling breath through my nose to savor the aroma wafting through the air.

  4. Simmer Time: Turn up the heat to medium and bring the concoction to a simmer. I recommend keeping an eye on it—20 minutes will fly by, especially if you’re dancing around your kitchen to your favorite playlist (guilty!).

  5. Cheesy Affair: If you want that extra luxurious touch, stir in your shredded cheese. Make sure it melts into the soup completely. At this moment, when you see those cheesy strings stretching, I mean, who could resist taking a quick selfie with it?

  6. Serve It Up: Ladle your delight into bowls and garnish with cilantro if you’re feeling inspired. Bring it to the table, knowing you’ve created something wonderful. Pair it with a side of tortilla chips, and enjoy all the crunchy goodness!

Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t skimp on seasoning: Remember, it’s easier to add than take away, so start small and build up those flavors.

  • Cook slow if time allows: If you can, let it simmer a little longer to deepen those flavors.

  • Don’t be shy: If you want some extra spice, toss in a diced jalapeño or some hotter chili powder—don’t worry, you’ve got this!

  • Experiment: Soup is so forgiving! Swap black beans for pinto if they’re more your style, and don’t hesitate to throw in whatever vegetables you have in the fridge.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

  • Dairy-Free?: Use a dairy-free cheese or skip it entirely. The soup will still be bursting with flavor!

  • Vegetarian Option: Swap out chicken for lentils or quinoa. It’ll still pack a protein punch with those black beans.

  • Seasonal Twist: Got some squash or zucchini leftover? Chop ‘em up and toss them in for a seasonal twist!

Directions

  1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, cooking for 20 minutes.
  3. Optionally stir in shredded cheese until melted.
  4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

There are so many fun pairings! This soup would shine with:

  • Tortilla Chips: For that perfect crunch—who doesn’t love dunking?

  • Sour Cream: If you’re feeling naughty, a dollop adds a creamy touch.

  • A Simple Salad: A side salad with lime vinaigrette balances the rich flavors perfectly.

  • Drinks: A light beer or an ice-cold lemonade pairs beautifully and complements the spices.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Let’s be real; the only time my kitchen chaos ever calms is when I’ve got leftovers ready to go. Store your soup in an airtight container, and it’ll last about 4-5 days in the fridge.

When it comes time to reheat, either pop it in the microwave or pour it back into a pot. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much while chilling—nobody wants gooey soup unless it’s melted cheese, am I right?

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Consider making a double batch. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver for busy nights! This dish freezes wonderfully, so ladle it into freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to leave some space at the top, as it expands when frozen. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently reheat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Skipping the Taste Test: I know, it’s tempting to just finish it and call it a day, but tasting as you go is crucial!

  2. Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season as you cook! It might be less work upfront, but it’ll pay off big time later.

  3. Over-boiling: Be gentle! Rapid boiling can take away flavor and richness; we want a tender simmer here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Can I use frozen chicken?
    Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it through thoroughly. You could even throw the chicken right in the pot and let it simmer until cooked, then shred.

  2. Is this soup spicy?
    That really depends on the enchilada sauce you choose! You can control the heat with spices or by adding jalapeños.

  3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
    Yes! Just set it on low for 6-8 hours, adding in the cheese just a few minutes before serving.

  4. What can I add for more vegetables?
    Chop up some bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Throw ’em in during the simmer stage.

  5. Can I double or halve the recipe?
    Definitely! You can adapt the quantity easily; just adjust your pot size accordingly.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

  • Large pot: For simmering your delicious concoction to perfection.
  • Ladle: For serving up generous bowls. Don’t skimp!
  • Wooden spoon: Let’s be real, it makes stirring everything a whole lot easier.
  • Cutting board and knife: Essential for your chopping and prepping.

Final Thoughts

So yeah, that’s the Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight for you. Like a warm embrace on a cold day, it’s simplicity feels like being wrapped in a cozy blanket. Cooking is always a little unpredictable, much like life itself, but this recipe gives you that extra nudge to feel like a rock star in your own kitchen.

I’d love to hear your take on this recipe! What did you tweak? Did you accidentally add too much cheese (not that there’s ever such a thing)?

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! It might just become your go-to bowl of happiness. Happy cooking!

Delicious 84e70c2fca

Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight

This comforting and flavorful chicken enchilada soup is perfect for quick weeknight dinners and makes excellent use of leftovers.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine Comfort Food, Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded Use fresh chicken for better flavor.
  • 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce Choose your favorite brand; a spicy version adds a kick.
  • 4 cups chicken broth Homemade broth adds more flavor.
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained Canned black beans keep it convenient and budget-friendly.
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained Sweet corn is essential; don't leave it out!
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes Fresh tomatoes are great, but canned works fine.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Adds an earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to your heat tolerance.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Cheddar or Monterey Jack works best.

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • In a large pot, combine chicken broth and enchilada sauce.
  • Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes; mix well.
  • Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes.
  • If desired, stir in shredded cheese until melted.
  • Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with cilantro before serving.

Notes

For added depth of flavor, consider cooking it longer. Customize with more vegetables or spices to suit your taste. This recipe is also great for meal prep and freezes well.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 800mgFiber: 9gSugar: 4g
Keyword Chicken Enchilada Soup, Easy Dinner, Healthy Comfort Food, Meal Prep, Quick Soup Recipe
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Tags:

chicken enchilada soup / comfort food / easy dinner / Mexican recipes / soup recipes

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