Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors in a delightful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty yet simple, this soup features rotisserie chicken, sweet corn, and zesty green enchilada sauce. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, the toppings elevate this soup to new heights, making it a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of green enchilada sauce, spices, and fresh toppings creates a symphony of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable Toppings: Make it your own by adding various toppings like avocado, fried tortilla strips, and cheese.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to four days, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken and beans, this soup provides a good source of protein while remaining low in carbs.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. These items will help you create the best Green Chicken Enchilada Soup without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows even cooking and prevents overflow when adding all the ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for onions and jalapenos, speeding up your prep time.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key for achieving the right balance of flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth

For Flavoring

• 1 jar (15 oz.) green enchilada sauce (or salsa verde)
• 1 can (4 oz.) diced green chiles (mild)
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1 tsp. chipotle chili pepper powder

For Creaminess

• 4 oz. full-fat cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes

For Protein & Vegetables

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 1 can (15 oz.) yellow corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz.) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

For Serving

• 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
• Fried tortilla strips
• Avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Grated cheese
• Sliced scallions

How to Make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat until it’s hot and shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion and jalapeno to the pot. Season with salt and cook while stirring until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, which should take about one minute.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Sauces

Pour in the chicken broth along with the green enchilada sauce and diced green chiles. Add in oregano, cumin, and chipotle chili powder. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Add the softened cream cheese into the pot. Stir continuously until it partially melts; it may look clumpy at first but will become smooth as you stir.

Step 6: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Finally stir in shredded chicken, drained corn, pinto beans, and sour cream. Mix well to combine everything before allowing it to heat through for a couple of minutes without boiling.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like fried tortilla strips, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, grated cheese, or sliced scallions. Enjoy your delicious Green Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a versatile dish that lends itself well to a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Serving this soup hot, with plenty of flavorful additions, enhances its appeal and allows for customization according to personal taste.

Toppings

• Avocado – Creamy avocado slices add richness and texture.
• Fried Tortilla Strips – Crunchy strips provide a delightful contrast to the smooth soup.
• Fresh Cilantro – Brighten the dish with fresh herbs that add a burst of flavor.
• Grated Cheese – A sprinkle of cheese melts beautifully on top for added creaminess.
• Sliced Scallions – These provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs excellently with the spicy soup, absorbing flavors.
• Rice – Serve alongside seasoned rice for extra heartiness and balance.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime juice adds brightness and acidity to the dish.

How to Perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making the perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your soup game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste and aroma of your soup.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño or chipotle powder according to your preference.
• Stir Gently – When incorporating cream cheese, stir gently to avoid curdling while ensuring it blends smoothly.
• Experiment with Broths – Use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor or vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with Green Chicken Enchilada Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip served with tortilla chips makes for an excellent starter.
2. Mexican Rice – Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices offers a filling side option.
3. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and lime adds brightness.
4. Cheesy Quesadillas – Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies offer additional nutrients and textures to round out the meal.
6. Chips and Salsa – A classic combination that adds crispness and zest before enjoying the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Green Chicken Enchilada Soup, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the soup to curdle or not blend well.

• Overcooking the soup: Aim for a gentle simmer once you’ve added the cream cheese. Overcooking can lead to a curdled texture and affect the flavor.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings throughout cooking. Adding salt and spices gradually helps you achieve the perfect flavor balance.

• Neglecting toppings: The toppings are what make this soup special! Don’t skip on fresh cilantro, avocado, or tortilla strips; they add great texture and taste.

• Not storing properly: For best results, store leftovers in airtight containers. Avoid letting them sit out at room temperature for too long to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Green Chicken Enchilada Soup.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs beforehand. Shred them after cooking and add them into the soup during the last steps.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative that provides similar creaminess with added protein.

How spicy is this Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeño and chipotle powder you use. Adjust these ingredients according to your preference for heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust flavors based on your taste preferences. This hearty soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends—give it a try!