Green chile chicken enchilada soup

Welcome to the delightful world of green chile chicken enchilada soup! This comforting dish is a perfect blend of flavors that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly day, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

What Makes This Soup Special?

What sets this green chile chicken enchilada soup apart from other soups? First, it combines tender chicken with zesty green chiles, creating a unique flavor profile that is both savory and slightly spicy. The addition of black beans and corn adds texture and nutrition, making it a well-rounded meal.

Moreover, the enchilada sauce infuses the soup with a rich, tangy taste that elevates it to a whole new level. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor, making it hard to resist going back for seconds! Plus, it’s easy to prepare, which means you can whip it up in no time.

Another fantastic aspect of this soup is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your preferences. Want it spicier? Just add some jalapeños! Prefer a vegetarian version? No problem! You can easily swap out the chicken for your favorite veggies. The possibilities are endless!

In addition, this green chile chicken enchilada soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table!

Ingredients for Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

To create a delicious bowl of green chile chicken enchilada soup, you’ll need a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich taste and texture of this comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450 g) – This will be the main protein source, providing a hearty base for the soup.
• 1 can (4 oz or 113 g) diced green chiles – These add a mild heat and a unique flavor that defines the soup.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
• 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth – This serves as the soup’s base, adding richness and moisture.
• 1 can (15 oz or 425 g) corn, drained – Corn adds sweetness and a delightful crunch.
• 1 can (15 oz or 425 g) black beans, rinsed and drained – Black beans provide protein and fiber, making the soup more filling.
• 1 can (14.5 oz or 410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained – Tomatoes contribute acidity and freshness to balance the flavors.
• 1 cup (240 ml) enchilada sauce – This is the secret ingredient that gives the soup its signature taste.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh cilantro, chopped – Cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color.
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) – Cheese provides creaminess and a savory finish.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
• Olive oil (for cooking) – Used to sauté the chicken and vegetables, adding richness.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to embark on your cooking adventure. Each item contributes to the delightful experience of enjoying a warm bowl of green chile chicken enchilada soup. So, let’s move on to the next step and start preparing this delicious dish!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Make sure you have everything listed in the ingredients section. Having your chicken, vegetables, and spices ready will help you stay organized. Plus, it’s always fun to see all the colorful ingredients laid out!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Now, let’s get started with the chicken! In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. While the oil heats up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. This step is crucial as it gives the chicken a nice flavor and texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, it’s time to sauté the vegetables! In the same pot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. The aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! This step builds a flavorful base for your green chile chicken enchilada soup.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Pot

Once your vegetables are ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot. Now, add the diced green chiles, chicken broth, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and ground cumin. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This mixture will create a beautiful medley of flavors that will make your soup irresistible!

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot. As it simmers, your kitchen will be filled with a delightful aroma, making it hard to wait for the final dish!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, it’s time to serve your delicious green chile chicken enchilada soup! Once the soup has simmered, stir in the chopped cilantro and half of the shredded cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve warm with tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Tips for Perfecting Your Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to making the best green chile chicken enchilada soup, selecting the right chicken is key. Fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re short on time, consider using rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds a wonderful flavor to your soup. Just shred it and mix it in during the combining step. This can save you time while still delivering a delicious meal!

Adjusting Spice Levels

Do you like your soup with a kick? Adjusting the spice levels in your green chile chicken enchilada soup is easy! If you prefer a milder flavor, stick with the diced green chiles. For more heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili powder for an extra punch. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in. So, start small and taste as you go!

Storing Leftovers

Leftover green chile chicken enchilada soup is a treat! To store it, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion. Enjoy your delicious soup anytime!

Variations of Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Vegetarian Option

If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist on the classic green chile chicken enchilada soup, you’re in luck! You can easily replace the chicken with hearty vegetables and plant-based protein. Consider using ingredients like diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. You can also include extra beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, to boost the protein content.

To make the soup even more filling, add some quinoa or brown rice. These grains will soak up the delicious broth and make the soup more satisfying. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through. This vegetarian version is just as comforting and delicious, making it a great option for everyone at the table!

Adding Extra Ingredients

One of the best things about green chile chicken enchilada soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding extra ingredients to suit your taste. For instance, consider tossing in some fresh spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients. These greens will wilt nicely into the soup, adding color and health benefits.

If you love a bit of crunch, try adding diced avocado or crispy tortilla strips as a topping. They will add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy soup. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or queso fresco for a milder flavor. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this soup your own!

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for making green chile chicken enchilada soup. It saves time and adds a wonderful flavor to the dish. Simply shred the chicken and mix it in during the combining step. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you love a spicy kick, there are several ways to amp up the heat in your green chile chicken enchilada soup. Start by adding chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili powder to enhance the spice level. Just remember to taste as you go, so you can find the perfect balance for your palate!

What toppings go well with green chile chicken enchilada soup?

Toppings can elevate your green chile chicken enchilada soup to a whole new level! Some popular options include shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and diced avocado. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess or crispy tortilla strips for crunch. Feel free to get creative with your toppings to make each bowl unique and delicious!

Can I freeze green chile chicken enchilada soup?

Yes, you can freeze green chile chicken enchilada soup for later enjoyment! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop. This makes for a quick and easy meal whenever you need it!

Print