As I stirred the pot, the aroma of spices wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a bustling Tex-Mex kitchen filled with warmth and laughter. This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is not just an easy weeknight meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that embraces you after a long day. Packed with protein from tender chicken and hearty black beans, this dish is a delightful blend of creamy broth, vibrant spices, and chunky tomatoes. One of the best perks? It’s customizable—feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your preferred level of spice! Whether you crave a quick dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, this soup delivers both heartiness and flavor with minimal effort. Are you ready to dive into a cozy bowl of deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

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Why is This Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a cozy bowl of soup to warm you up on a chilly evening. This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup wraps you in a flavorful embrace with every spoonful.

Easy Customization: With ingredient swaps like black beans for pinto or adding jalapeños for heat, it’s a dish you can easily tailor to your taste preferences.

Weeknight Friendly: Quick and straightforward, you can have this satisfying meal ready in no time—ideal for busy evenings when you still want something delicious.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The harmonious blend of spices and creamy broth will impress your family and friends, making it a hit for gatherings.

Looking for another comforting meal? Check out this Garlic Butter Chicken that pairs perfectly with our soup!

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Avocado Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté ingredients; can be substituted with olive oil.
Chicken (1 lb skinless breasts or thighs) – Main protein source providing heartiness; consider rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Medium Onion – Provides aromatics and sweetness; yellow or white onion works well, while red onion adds extra flavor.
Fresh Garlic (3 cloves) – Enhances flavor depth; for convenience, dried garlic powder can be used, but fresh is recommended.
Enchilada Sauce (1 can, 10 oz) – Acts as the base flavoring agent; choose red or green sauce based on your preference.
Diced Roasted Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – Adds texture and tanginess; use fresh diced tomatoes if canned options aren’t available.
Low-sodium Chicken Broth (4 cups, 32 oz) – Provides the soup’s base; a vegetable broth option is available for a vegetarian version.
Black Beans (1 can, drained and rinsed) – Contributes protein and fiber; feel free to swap for pinto beans if desired.
Frozen Sweet Corn (1 cup) – Brings sweetness and texture; fresh corn can be substituted when in season.

For the Seasoning

Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Imparts warm spice notes; no substitute recommended, but ground coriander can vary the flavor.
Chili Powder (1 tsp) – Contributes heat; adjust to your taste preferences.
Ground Coriander (½ tsp) – Optional for an extra depth of flavor.
Salt and Pepper – Enhances the seasoning; add to taste.

For Creaminess and Toppings

Sour Cream (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and a tangy kick; Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
Shredded Cheese (1 cup, options include cheddar or Monterey Jack) – Delivers a cheesy texture; for best results, shred from blocks rather than pre-shredded cheese.
Toppings (optional) – Avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, lime wedges, and extra cheese for delicious garnishing.

Embrace the joy of cooking with this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe that welcomes warmth and flavor into your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup. Dice the medium onion and fresh garlic; set them aside. Rinse and drain the black beans, and shred the cheese of your choice, as freshly shredded cheese melts better. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process, ensuring a delightful experience.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken
In a large Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken and season it liberally with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and no longer pink inside. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep it warm.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic to the residual oil. Sauté these aromatics over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and soft, releasing an enticing fragrance. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation for your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Step 4: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and optional coriander to the sautéed onion and garlic. Cook these spices for about 1 minute, letting them activate their flavors. Then, add the can of diced roasted tomatoes, stirring them in for an additional 3-4 minutes, until they begin to break down and meld with the spices.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour in the enchilada sauce and low-sodium chicken broth, mixing everything together. Return the previously cooked chicken to the pot and add the rinsed black beans and frozen sweet corn. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Finish the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream until it fully incorporates, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Then, fold in the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt gently into the soup. The result should be a velvety, rich Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup that’s begging to be served!

Step 7: Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as desired. Ladle the wonderful soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings such as avocado slices, fresh cilantro, tortilla strips, or lime wedges. Enjoy this cozy bowl of deliciousness that’s perfect for any night of the week!

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Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights when you need to save time! You can prep the soup base (without the sour cream and cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook as instructed but refrigerate the mixture after simmering. To maintain its delicious quality, cool the soup completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the soup on the stovetop until warm, then stir in the sour cream and cheese just before serving for that creamy finish. Following these steps guarantees you’ll have a hearty meal ready with minimal effort, just as comforting and flavorful as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a boil to prevent curdling the sour cream. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Meal Prep: For a make-ahead option, prepare the soup up to the point of adding sour cream. Store in the fridge and mix in the sour cream just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Feel free to let your creativity shine by mixing up this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup. Every tweak adds its own delightful twist!

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile. Each option delivers a unique taste while keeping it hearty.
Bean Choice: Swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans. This small change can give the soup a whole new personality and texture.
Add Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or even zucchini for a veggie boost. The added colors and crunch will elevate both the taste and presentation!
Extra Heat: Spice things up by adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Just a little can transform your soup into a fiery delight.
Cheese Varieties: Instead of cheddar or Monterey Jack, experiment with pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend. Each type brings its own unique melting qualities and flavor.
Sour Cream Alternatives: Swap sour cream out for Greek yogurt for a lighter option that still offers creaminess. It’s a double win for taste and health!
Fresh Herbs: Add fresh cilantro or green onions as a simple garnish for added flavor and a pop of color. The freshness makes all the difference!
Flavor Boosters: Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor. It will lend a beautiful smokiness that complements the creamy broth.

If you’re looking for other comforting recipes, don’t miss out on this delicious Smothered Chicken Rice or the delightful warming flavors of Potato Soup Comfort. The possibilities are endless!

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serve up a delightful meal that’s warm, satisfying, and bursting with flavor alongside this comforting soup.

Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty tortilla chips are perfect for dipping and add a satisfying texture contrast. They create the ultimate Tex-Mex experience!
Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness offers a smooth counterpart to the soup’s richness, enhancing the vibrant flavors of the dish.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice complements the soup perfectly while absorbing some of that tasty broth, making each bite even more filling.
Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread adds a comforting touch. It’s a great way to soak up the soup and adds a delightful sweetness to the meal.
Shrimp or Chicken Tacos: Pair with soft or crunchy tacos filled with seasoned proteins for a fun, informal dining experience that enhances the Tex-Mex theme.
Pineapple Salsa: Brighten up your meal with a fresh pineapple salsa; the sweet and tangy notes elevate the overall flavors and balance the soup’s creaminess.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty cilantro lime rice brings freshness that offsets the rich flavors of the creamy broth, delivering a delightful contrast.
Margaritas: For drinks, a refreshing margarita offers a festive touch—refreshing citrus that complements the meal’s spice perfectly!

This scrumptious assortment will take your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup to new heights, creating a memorable dining experience!

Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and onions for a flavor boost; pre-packaged versions may lack depth and aroma.
Avoid Curdling: Stir in sour cream after removing the soup from heat to prevent it from curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
Spice It Up: Adjust chili powder to match your heat preference; start with less, as you can always add more later for your perfect Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup.
Bean Variations: Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto or kidney beans, but remember to rinse them well for the best flavor.
Cheese Matters: For the best melting quality, avoid pre-shredded cheese loaded with additives; shred your cheese fresh from the block.

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Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing your vegetables, select firm, unblemished tomatoes with vibrant skin and a sweet aroma. For onions, pick ones that feel heavy for their size and have no soft spots. Fresh garlic should be plump and tight, avoiding any that feel mushy or sprouted.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can refrigerate your Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain that creamy texture!

Can I freeze this soup, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze, let the soup cool completely first. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’s best to store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What should I do if my soup curdles after adding sour cream?
If you fret about curdling, don’t worry too much! To avoid this, always add the sour cream to the soup after removing it from the heat. Stir it in gradually to achieve a beautiful, creamy consistency. If it does curdle, blending the soup in a blender can help smooth it out.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! For a healthier twist, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt. Also, if allergies are a concern, ensure that the enchilada sauce is gluten-free and check for any potential allergens in the broth and cheese. Always opt for low-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt intake.

How can I adjust the spice level in my soup?
If you prefer milder flavors, start with half the recommended chili powder and taste as you go. You can always add more for that extra kick. Alternatively, consider adding diced jalapeños to customize the heat even further!