Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe
This soup delivers big, satisfying flavor in every spoonful. The combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, and savory vegetables creates a comforting meal that’s both filling and nutritious. Its creamy texture and warm spices make it ideal for chilly evenings, while its simplicity keeps dinner prep easy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon butter or ghee (or avocado oil)
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1 large red bell pepper, diced
2–3 garlic cloves, chopped
1½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
15 ounces diced fire‑roasted tomatoes (1 can)
¼ cup tomato paste
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
14.5 ounces red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
14.5 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup fresh or frozen sweet corn
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup Mexican shredded cheese blend (for garnishing)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
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Melt the butter or ghee (or heat the oil) in a large stockpot over medium‑high heat.
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Add diced onion, celery, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5–6 minutes.
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Stir in cumin, chili powder, oregano, fire‑roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy (optional).
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Return the pot to the stove and add kidney beans, black beans, sweet corn, and shredded chicken. Heat through for a few minutes.
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Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese or your favorite toppings.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep time: approximately 10 minutes
Cook time: approximately 25 minutes
Total time: approximately 35 minutes
Variations
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Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with extra beans or plant‑based chicken alternatives.
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Cheesy: Stir in extra cheese at the end or use Monterey Jack for a creamier finish.
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Green Enchilada Style: Swap red enchilada sauce with green tomatillo enchilada sauce for a tangy twist.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 5–7 days.
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Freezer: Freeze up to 3–4 months in freezer‑safe containers.
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Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
FAQs
What toppings go well with this soup?
Popular toppings include chopped avocado, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, green onions, lime wedges, tortilla chips, sour cream, or extra shredded cheese.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the broth and seasonings, and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Yes. If using raw chicken breasts, add them to the pot with the broth and simmer until cooked through, then shred before adding back to the soup.
Is this soup gluten‑free?
Yes, as long as your chicken broth and seasonings are gluten‑free.
Can I make this soup dairy‑free?
To make it dairy‑free, skip the cheese garnish or use a dairy‑free cheese alternative.
How do I thicken the soup?
Blending part of the soup with an immersion blender creates a thicker, creamier texture.
Can I add enchilada sauce?
Yes, adding enchilada sauce can boost the flavor and deepen the richness.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely — zucchini, spinach, or additional bell peppers make great additions.
How to reheat frozen soup?
Thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot.
What can I serve with this soup?
Serve with warm cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a flavorful, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its rich texture, hearty ingredients, and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
