Delicious Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
When the chilly evenings roll in, nothing is more welcoming than the aroma of a warm, homemade soup enveloping your kitchen. I first crafted this Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup on a particularly drizzly Sunday when all I craved was something comforting yet nourishing. The best part? It’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re reaching for the slow cooker to let it simmer all day, opting for a quick stovetop fix, or utilizing the Instant Pot for a speedy meal, this dish is adaptable to fit your busy lifestyle.
Made with succulent shredded chicken, a velvety broth, and the zesty kick of green enchilada sauce, it’s a high-protein, low-carb wonder that is bound to become a staple in your home. Every spoonful wraps you in warmth, delivering a taste that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Let’s dive into this cozy recipe together and bring a little piece of Mexico straight to your dinner table!
Why is Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The rich, zesty notes from the green enchilada sauce make every bite a delight.
Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with 39g of protein per serving, it’s perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
Adaptable Cooking Methods: Enjoy it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or whip it up quickly in an Instant Pot.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This soup is sure to satisfy both family and guests alike, making it a go-to for gatherings.
Easy to Customize: Add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch. Whether you opt for a classic recipe or explore variations, check out more about this scrumptious meal!
Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup Ingredients
• You’ll love the balance of flavors and textures in this dish!
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The main protein source that gives the soup heartiness; for quicker prep, use rotisserie chicken instead.
For the Broth
• Green Enchilada Sauce – Adds a zesty kick and rich flavor; choose homemade or a 28-ounce can based on your preference for spice.
• Chicken Broth – The foundation of your soup’s liquid; low-sodium options are great for those watching their salt intake.
For the Creaminess
• Half and Half or Heavy Cream – Imparts richness; for a lighter option, try fat-free half and half or skip it altogether.
• Cream Cheese – Boosts creaminess; ensure it’s softened to avoid lumps, or use low-fat cream cheese to cut calories.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts beautifully into the soup for a creamy texture; feel free to swap with cheddar or pepper jack for different flavors.
For Extra Flavor
• Green Salsa (Salsa Verde) – Adds tang and a bit of heat; adjust according to your spice comfort level.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; be sure to taste and adjust to your liking.
This Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers versatility to fit your lifestyle. Enjoy!
How to Make Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup
Add Ingredients: In your 6-quart slow cooker, combine the boneless skinless chicken, green enchilada sauce, and chicken broth. This base will create a flavorful foundation for your soup.
Cook Slowly: Set the slow cooker to Low and let it cook for 6-8 hours. The chicken will be tender and easy to shred when ready.
Shred Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Shred it using two forks and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Mix in Creamy Components: Add the half and half, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, and green salsa to the cooker. Stir gently to combine all of the delicious ingredients.
Melt Cheese: Turn the slow cooker to warm and stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce as desired.
Alternative Cooking Methods: For stovetop, simmer the chicken in broth until fully cooked, then combine the remaining ingredients as above. For the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, shred the chicken, then sauté and add the other ingredients to finish.
Optional: Top with avocado, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for extra freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify their weeknight dinners! You can prepare the base of the soup—combining the chicken, green enchilada sauce, and chicken broth—up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container. For optimal flavor, you can also shred the chicken and mix in the cream cheese, half and half, and shredded cheese up to 3 days ahead; just store everything separately in the fridge to maintain quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat everything together in a slow cooker or on the stovetop until warmed through, and relish in the cozy comfort of homemade soup with minimal effort!
Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with some delicious twists!
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. They’ll blend beautifully into the creamy broth.
Heartier Option: Toss in black beans or corn for a fiber boost. These ingredients not only add texture but also enhance the soup’s heartiness.
Cheesy Delight: Swap out Monterey Jack for sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a bolder flavor profile. Each variation brings a new richness to every spoonful.
Low-Carb Pasta: For a fun twist, stir in small pasta shapes like penne or rotini. This will create a delightful, comforting bowl perfect for pasta lovers.
Extra Heat: Spice things up with diced jalapeños or a few shakes of your favorite hot sauce. A little heat can elevate the soup and wake up those taste buds!
Creamy Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use coconut milk instead of cream. This swap offers a creamy, vegan delight while still being satisfying.
Taco Flavor: Enhance the flavor with taco seasoning or a sprinkle of cumin and paprika. This adds a delightful twist reminiscent of classic tacos.
Savory Herbs: Fresh cilantro or scallions can add a refreshing twist. Sprinkle some on top before serving for an aromatic garnish that will brighten your bowl.
Let your culinary imagination soar! Each variation invites the possibility of new delightful flavors and textures.
What to Serve with Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup?
When cozying up with this comforting bowl of goodness, it’s delightful to create a full meal that heightens its warm flavors.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: The crunchiness of tortilla chips provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup, making every bite a joy. Enjoy them as a side for dipping or topping!
Fresh Cilantro Rice: A light, herb-infused rice dish complements the zesty notes of the soup while adding a refreshing twist to the meal. The floral pop of cilantro rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread brings a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with the soup’s zest. Top it with lime juice and a sprinkle of salt for an extra zing!
Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet, juicy corn mixed with diced tomatoes and a hint of lime brightens the meal, offering a vibrant and refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the soup.
Queso Dip: This cheesy dish is a crowd-pleaser! The gooey goodness of queso complements the creamy enchiladas chicken soup and adds a touch of indulgence that everyone will love.
Spicy Salsa: Serve with a side of your favorite salsa for a kick of flavor! The freshness of tomatoes and chilies adds depth and a perfect complement to the soup’s creamy richness.
Margaritas: Wind down your meal with a refreshing margarita. The citrusy zing and slight sweetness create a delightful contrast to the warmth of the soup.
With these delicious pairings, you can elevate your dining experience while ensuring that every aspect of the meal harmonizes beautifully!
Storage Tips for Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: This delicious Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a bit of chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Expert Tips for Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup
• Perfectly Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure cream cheese is softened before adding to avoid lumps; microwave briefly if needed for easier mixing.
• Spice Adjustment: For a spicier kick in your Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup, add diced jalapeños or use a hotter green salsa.
• Liquid Balance: Common mistake: Not adjusting the liquid for additional ingredients like beans or corn can make the soup too watery; remove some broth if necessary.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance flavor and nutrition without compromising texture.
• Storage Flexibility: This soup freezes well for up to three months; reheat slowly and add broth if it thickens in the refrigerator.
Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this soup, as they both provide a hearty texture. If you’re short on time, I often reach for a rotisserie chicken, which makes prep a breeze!
How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
This delicious soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to keep the flavors intact.
Can I freeze Creamy Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup?
Yes! This comforting soup freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It will stay good for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to thaw and reheat my soup?
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for a gentle defrost. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much. This will help maintain its creamy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Great question! This recipe is already low-carb and high-protein, making it suitable for many diets. If you have dairy allergies, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and I recommend checking the ingredients of your green salsa to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs.
How do I adapt this recipe to avoid having watery soup?
Very! If you’re adding extras like beans or corn, be cautious with the liquid. I suggest starting with 1-2 cups of chicken broth and adding more only if needed; you can always adjust during the cooking process.
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