The Coziest Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe Ever

A cozy kitchen where delightful aromas of creamy chicken enchilada soup swirl around, inviting warmth and comfort into your evening.

Memories of grandmother’s hearty cooking dance through this recipe’s rich flavors.

Southwestern spices whisper tales of culinary adventure with each spoonful.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Dipping a crisp tortilla into this velvety, soul-warming soup on a chilly afternoon.

Packed with tender chicken and vibrant seasonings, this dish promises to transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Grab a ladle and let’s make magic happen in your kitchen tonight!

Why Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Warms Every Bite

• Savor Speedy Flavor Fusion: This soup combines Mexican-inspired ingredients in record time, delivering a taste explosion that transforms simple chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal within 30 minutes.
• Enjoy Creamy Comfort Convenience: The one-pot method means minimal cleanup, while the rich, velvety texture from melted cream cheese and shredded cheese creates a luxurious dining experience without complicated cooking techniques.
• Customize Your Comfort Bowl: Flexible toppings like tortilla chips, sour cream, and avocado let everyone personalize their soup, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings where individual preferences matter.
• Celebrate Protein-Packed Nutrition: Loaded with tender chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables, this soup delivers a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and provides essential nutrients in every delicious spoonful.

Ingredients Needed For Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Tender meat that provides the main protein base for the soup, lean and easy to shred.
• Black Beans: Hearty protein source that adds texture and extra nutrition to the soup.

• Chicken Broth: Flavorful foundation that creates the soup's liquid consistency and adds depth.
• Enchilada Sauce: Adds rich, authentic Mexican-inspired flavor and vibrant color to the soup.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provides additional liquid and tangy brightness to the overall dish.

• Onion, Garlic: Classic aromatics that build a robust flavor foundation.
• Cumin, Chili Powder, Smoked Paprika, Oregano: Warm spices that create a complex, traditional Mexican-style seasoning blend.
• Cream Cheese: Adds luxurious creaminess and smooth texture to the soup.
• Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides rich, extra cheesy flavor.
• Lime Juice: Bright, fresh finish that balances the rich and creamy soup.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors.

• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy complement to the creamy soup.
• Sour Cream: Adds extra coolness and richness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy, fresh topping with healthy fats.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a bright, herbal note.

How To Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Easily

Step 1: Awaken the Aromatics

Grab a large pot and drizzle olive oil over medium heat. Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic, letting them dance and soften until they release their magical fragrance, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Poach the Protein

• Chicken broth
• Enchilada sauce
• Diced tomatoes

Bring the liquid to a rolling boil, then dial down the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let the chicken bathe in flavors for 20-25 minutes until it’s tender and fully cooked.

Step 3: Transform the Chicken

Carefully lift the chicken from the broth and use two forks to pull it apart into delicate shreds. Return the shredded goodness back to the pot.

Step 4: Spice Up the Situation

• Black beans
• Corn kernels
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Salt
• Pepper

Let everything mingle and get cozy for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Creamy Cheese Transformation

Drop cubed cream cheese into the pot, stirring until it melts into a silky smooth consistency. Sprinkle in shredded cheese and stir until it disappears completely into the soup.

Step 6: Bright Citrus Finale

Squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup, adding a zingy brightness that makes the flavors pop.

Step 7: Serve with Flair

• Crispy tortilla chips
• Cool sour cream
• Creamy avocado slices
• Fresh cilantro leaves

Tips That Help With Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Chicken Selection Magic: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the most tender and flavorful meat that shreds easily and absorbs the soup's rich spices.
• Simmer Slowly Technique: Keep the heat low when cooking chicken to ensure it remains juicy and doesn't become tough, allowing the broth to gently tenderize the meat.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust chili powder and smoked paprika quantities to match your heat preference, creating a personalized soup experience that suits your taste buds.
• Creamy Consistency Hack: Cube cream cheese at room temperature for smoother melting and prevent lumps, resulting in a velvety, luxurious soup texture.
• Make-Ahead Brilliance: This soup freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners with minimal effort.

How To Save Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup For Later

• Refrigerate: Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Freeze: Pour soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing toppings like sour cream or tortilla chips.
• Reheat on Stovetop: Warm soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup seems too thick. Heat until thoroughly warm and steaming.
• Microwave Option: Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating. Stop when soup reaches desired temperature.

What Goes Great With Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Pair with Crisp Margaritas: Complement the soup's rich, creamy flavors with a zesty margarita. The citrusy lime and tequila cut through the soup's richness, creating a balanced and refreshing combination.
• Match with Crunchy Corn Chips: Serve the soup alongside crispy tortilla chips for added texture. The chips provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soup's smooth, velvety consistency.
• Serve with Fresh Cilantro Salad: Create a light, herbal side salad with chopped cilantro, red onion, and a lime vinaigrette. This fresh accompaniment will brighten the soup's deep, warming flavors and add a vibrant, green element to the meal.
• Enjoy with Mexican Lager: Opt for a cold, crisp Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo. The light, clean taste of the lager will balance the soup's spicy and creamy profile, providing a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

Flavor Boosts For Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat. Swap regular cheese with pepper jack for more kick. Perfect for those craving a fiery flavor profile.
• Green Chile Chicken Version: Replace enchilada sauce with green chile sauce. Incorporate roasted green chiles for a tangy, earthy dimension. Sprinkle additional green chile powder for depth.
• Slow Cooker Method: Transfer all ingredients except cream cheese and final cheeses into a crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred chicken during last hour, then stir in remaining dairy ingredients before serving.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute chicken with plant-based protein like quinoa or extra firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans for protein boost and maintain creamy texture.

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup FAQs Answered

• What makes this chicken enchilada soup different from traditional soup recipes?

This soup combines the rich flavors of enchilada sauce with creamy elements like cream cheese and shredded cheese, creating a more indulgent and hearty dish that’s packed with southwestern-inspired spices and ingredients.

• Can I make this soup spicier or milder?

Absolutely! You can adjust the heat level by changing the amount of chili powder or adding extra hot sauce. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder, and for more heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

• Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and actually develops more flavor over time. The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it an excellent option for preparing ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through, which will make the recipe even quicker and easier to prepare.

Cranberry Bacon Jam Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Cranberry bacon jam blends sweet and savory flavors into a luxurious spread that elevates any dish. Rich caramelized notes and tangy fruit create a sophisticated condiment perfect for charcuterie boards or gourmet sandwiches you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450 grams) bacon, diced
• 1 cup (100 grams) fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup (100 grams) brown sugar

Aromatics and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Liquid and Seasoning Components:

• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Render the bacon in a spacious cast-iron skillet over moderate heat, transforming the diced pieces until golden and crisp. Transfer the browned bits onto a paper towel-lined surface, preserving approximately two tablespoons of rendered fat within the skillet.
2. Gently sauté the diced onions in the residual bacon drippings, coaxing them to a translucent and soft state. Introduce minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to permeate the mixture for a brief moment.
3. Incorporate vibrant cranberries alongside brown sugar, tangy apple cider vinegar, rich maple syrup, smoky paprika, and warm cinnamon into the skillet. Orchestrate the ingredients over medium heat, encouraging the cranberries to burst and the liquid to gradually thicken into a luxurious consistency.
4. Reunite the crispy bacon fragments with the cranberry concoction, stirring to distribute flavors evenly. Reduce the heat, allowing the jam to simmer and develop a complex flavor profile.
5. For those desiring a more refined texture, utilize a food processor or immersion blender to gently pulse the mixture, maintaining a rustic, chunky character.
6. Allow the jam to cool and settle, then transfer to a clean glass vessel. Serve at room temperature as a versatile condiment that bridges sweet and savory elements.

Notes

• Bacon Selection Matters: Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness, ensuring a robust base for your cranberry jam.
• Spice Customization: Adjust smoked paprika and cinnamon levels to match your taste preference, creating a personalized flavor profile.
• Dietary Adaptations: Swap bacon with turkey bacon or tempeh bacon for lighter, vegetarian-friendly versions without compromising the jam’s essence.
• Storage and Preservation: Refrigerate the jam in an airtight container for up to a week, allowing flavors to develop and intensify over time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 194
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 605 mg
• Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg