Name: Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 0.5 teaspoon chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon mustard powder; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.25 teaspoon cumin; 1 pinch cinnamon; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 jalapeno pepper, diced with seeds removed; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 10 oz red enchilada sauce; 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained; 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed; 15 oz canned whole kernel corn, drained; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (or 2 small; see notes if using cooked chicken); 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (Can also use more cheddar.)

Introduction to Chicken Enchilada Soup

Are you a young professional searching for a flavor-packed meal that won't take hours to prepare? Look no further than Chicken Enchilada Soup! This hearty dish combines all the beloved flavors of classic enchiladas in one comforting bowl—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why Chicken Enchilada Soup is Perfect for Young Professionals

As a young professional, you probably lead a hectic lifestyle. Between juggling meetings, deadlines, and social commitments, finding time to cook can be challenging. That’s where this soup shines! With just 10 minutes of prep time and a total cook time of 35 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that easily serves multiple portions.

Not only is this recipe simple, but it also utilizes easy-to-find pantry ingredients, which means fewer trips to the grocery store. Plus, it’s customizable! Want to kick up the heat with jalapeños or toss in some leftover chicken? This soup welcomes all variations.

Imagine coming home to a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen after a long day at work. A bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup can be your deliciously rewarding end to a busy day, offering a perfect blend of comfort and zest. For more recipes that fit your fast-paced lifestyle, check out sources like Food Network or Bon Appétit.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Creating a flavorful Chicken Enchilada Soup begins with gathering the right ingredients. In this section, we’ll outline the essential items you'll need to whip up this delightful dish, ensuring you're fully prepared for a tasty cooking session.

Essential Ingredients for the Soup

To make a hearty Chicken Enchilada Soup, here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Either a large boneless skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs works great.
Vegetables: Diced yellow onion, jalapeño, and minced garlic add essential flavor.
Canned Goods: You'll want red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and whole kernel corn.
Seasonings: A blend of chili powder, cumin, and other spices give depth.

Pantry Staples You Need

In addition to fresh ingredients, make sure to have these pantry staples on hand:

Cooking oils: Olive oil and butter help in sautéing.
Broth: Chicken broth serves as the soup's base, enhancing its savory taste.
Cream Cheese and Cheese: For a creamy finish, you'll need cream cheese and shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to make a delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup! If you're looking for more delicious recipes, check out sources like Bon Appétit or Food Network for inspiration.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Creating a delicious bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful experience, especially when you follow these simple steps! Let's dive in and make this comforting dish that will warm you up.

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before starting your culinary adventure, make sure to gather all your ingredients. Here's a quick checklist to help you get organized:

Seasonings: Chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper.
Soup Base: Butter, olive oil, yellow onion, jalapeño pepper, garlic, red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, hot sauce (optional), chicken broth, a large boneless skinless chicken breast (or two small), cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.

Having everything in place will make the cooking process smoother. For bonus points, consider prepping your vegetables in advance for easy access.

Sautéing the Base

Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and jalapeños, cooking for about four minutes until softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic for another minute. This step builds a flavorful base for your Chicken Enchilada Soup, so take your time and enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen!

Adding the Chicken and Other Ingredients

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper before adding it to the pot. This seasoning step enhances the flavor of your chicken. Toss in the remaining ingredients—enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, but keep it on medium heat to ensure the chicken stays tender. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Shredding the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This shredding process not only makes the chicken easier to eat but also helps it soak up all that delicious broth when returned to the pot!

Mixing in the Cream Cheese and Cheeses

Now it’s time for that creamy goodness! Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully incorporated. Then mix in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. A gentle heat ensures smooth melting, giving your Chicken Enchilada Soup that rich, cheesy texture we all crave.

Final Touches and Serving

Taste your soup and tweak the seasoning as needed. Once it's just right, serve your Chicken Enchilada Soup in bowls garnished with your favorite toppings—crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of cheese are great options!

Enjoy this warm and hearty meal that’s sure to be a hit. Whether on a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday, this soup is a delightful option you’ll want to revisit regularly!

Variations of Chicken Enchilada Soup

Vegetarian Chicken Enchilada Soup

For a delightful twist, try a Vegetarian Chicken Enchilada Soup! Simply substitute the chicken with a medley of hearty vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also use shredded jackfruit for a satisfying texture. This variation maintains all the rich flavors of the original and provides a fresh, wholesome alternative for plant-based diets.

Spicy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Craving some heat? A Spicy Chicken Enchilada Soup is sure to ignite your taste buds! Enhance the original recipe by adding extra jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or your favorite hot sauce. Consider topping it off with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a cooling contrast. These variations keep things interesting and cater to spice lovers!

Feel free to explore your creativity with these variations for a soup that suits your mood and preferences!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pro Tips for Perfect Soup Texture

For a satisfyingly creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup, avoid boiling the ingredients too rapidly. This allows the chicken to cook tenderly, keeping it juicy and enhancing the flavors. When incorporating the cheeses, add them at lower temperatures to prevent any graininess in texture.

How to Soften Cream Cheese Quickly

In a hurry? A quick method to soften cream cheese is to place cubed cream cheese in the microwave for five minutes after heating 2 cups of water. The steam will work wonders, helping it become the perfect creamy addition to your soup without any hassle. This little trick can save time without sacrificing flavor.

Feel free to explore more tips and techniques on cooking cream cheese for other recipes too!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Toppings to Enhance Your Soup

Elevate your Chicken Enchilada Soup experience with a variety of delicious toppings. Consider adding:

Avocado slices for creaminess
Fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness
Sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the spice
Lime wedges for a zesty kick
Crumbled tortilla chips for crunch

Feel free to get creative! You might even try adding pickled jalapeños for an extra heat boost.

Pairing Suggestions for Complements

Looking for the perfect side to accompany your Chicken Enchilada Soup? Here are some tasty ideas:

Cornbread or tortilla chips bring delightful textures.
Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps to cut through the richness.
Pair with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade for a satisfying meal.

These pairings will not only complement the soup but also make your dining experience even more enjoyable!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your Chicken Enchilada Soup is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients, chop your veggies, and mix your seasonings. This quick prep sets you up for a delicious meal in no time.

Cooking Time

Once your prep is done, it's time to let your soup work its magic. The cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully while the chicken cooks to tender perfection.

Total Time

In just about 45 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup. It’s an easy recipe to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

For additional insights on cooking times and tips, check out this cooking time reference for even more ideas!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Calories per Cup

Each cup of this Chicken Enchilada Soup contains approximately 242 calories. This makes it a satisfying and nutritious option for a hearty meal without overindulging.

Nutritional Breakdown

Protein: A great source, mainly from chicken and cheese, providing essential amino acids for muscle health.
Fiber: Thanks to black beans and corn, this soup offers a healthy dose of fiber, aiding digestion.
Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in vitamins A and C from the peppers and tomatoes, boosting your immune health.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil and cream cheese contribute beneficial fats for overall well-being.

Overall, this Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delicious way to incorporate a variety of nutrients into your diet. For more nutritional insights, check out the USDA's FoodData Central.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup fits perfectly into a balanced diet!

FAQs about Chicken Enchilada Soup

Can I Use Leftover Chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is not just a time-saver; it infuses your Chicken Enchilada Soup with even more flavor. About 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken can be added at the same stage as raw chicken in the recipe. Just simmer for about 15 minutes to blend all those delicious flavors perfectly!

What Can I Substitute for Enchilada Sauce?

If you find yourself without enchilada sauce, no problem! You can use an 8 oz. can of tomato sauce as a substitute. However, we recommend homemade enchilada sauce for the best taste. If you're feeling adventurous, try out other recipes like Chicken Taco Soup or Chicken Tortilla Soup, which offer a fun twist.

How Should I Store Leftover Soup?

Storing your Chicken Enchilada Soup is simple! Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Want to save some for later? Feel free to freeze it for up to 3 months. It freezes beautifully and makes for a quick meal down the road!

For more tips on food storage, check out the USDA's guidelines on safe food preservation.

Conclusion on Chicken Enchilada Soup

Whether you’re wrapping up a busy workday or prepping for a cozy weekend gathering, Chicken Enchilada Soup is the perfect comfort food. With its blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy textures, this easy recipe is sure to satisfy. Don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings—it’s all about making it your own!

Explore more delicious variations and serving suggestions to keep your meals exciting!