When the weather gets chilly and the days grow short, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring the family together. That first whiff of something delicious bubbling on the stove can transform a house into a home—full of warmth, love, and the sweet scent of nostalgia. Imagine gathering around the table, sharing stories, and letting the comforting flavors of a Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup wrap around you like a cozy blanket. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for this delightful soup that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe
A Solution to the Everyday Chill
We all have those long days when the world feels a bit too cold—whether it’s the bite of winter in the air or just the weight of a busy week wearing us down. If you’re looking for comfort, let me assure you that this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is your answer. It’s like a hug in a bowl. Every spoonful delivers creamy goodness, with a hint of spice that’ll fill your heart as much as your tummy.
The Joy of Comfort Food
What’s special about this dish is its ability to create joy with each savory bite. With a rich blend of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a delightful mixture of spices, it brings warmth and comfort to your family’s dinner table. Plus, it’s versatile enough for any night of the week, from rushed Tuesday dinners to cozy Sunday family gatherings.
Family-Friendly and Nourishing
If your household is anything like mine, everyone has different preferences when it comes to dinner. Fortunately, this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a hit with kids and adults alike—especially when you let them personalize their bowls with toppings like crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, or a sprinkle of cilantro. Cooking together can become a cherished family tradition!
For a little extra inspiration, why not check out my Creamy Tortellini Soup to create a double feature for dinner?
Ingredients Breakdown & Prep Tips
Ingredients and Their Magic
Let’s gather our ingredients for this delicious soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon butter or ghee | Avocado oil also works |
| 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 teaspoons ground cumin | |
| 1 tablespoon chili powder | |
| 1 teaspoon dried oregano | |
| 15 ounces diced fire-roasted tomatoes | 1 can |
| 1/4 cup tomato paste | |
| 4 cups low sodium chicken broth | |
| 14.5 ounces red kidney beans, drained and rinsed | 1 can |
| 14.5 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed | 1 can |
| 1 cup sweet corn, fresh or frozen | |
| 2 cups shredded cooked chicken | |
| 1 cup Mexican shredded cheese blend | For garnishing |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Time to gather our ingredients in the heart of your kitchen! Don’t you just love the vibrant colors and freshness? That rainbow of veggies is not only beautiful but bursts with flavor.
The Preparation Steps
Now let’s get cooking. This comforting soup is surprisingly easy to prepare, and you’ll be rewarded with exquisite flavors and aromas dancing through your home.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of Butter or Ghee (add avocado oil if using) in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced Onion, sliced Celery, thinly sliced Carrot, diced Red Bell Pepper, and chopped Garlic. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes, until they softens and the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in the Ground Cumin, Chili Powder, Dried Oregano, Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, and Chicken Broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow this beautiful mixture to come to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the veggies are wonderfully tender.
- Remove from heat and, using a hand blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. The transformation is magical!
- Return the soup to medium heat and add the Red Kidney Beans, Black Beans, Sweet Corn, and Shredded Cooked Chicken. Stir it all together and heat for a couple of minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top it with the Mexican Shredded Cheese Blend or your favorite toppings. Enjoy every bite!
As you stir and sauté, let the aroma fill your kitchen, reminding you of cozy gatherings and the love shared over a home-cooked meal.
Nutrition Highlights:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Fat | 6g |
Avoid These Mistakes
Common Mistakes & Fixes
- Overcooking the Vegetables: It’s tempting to cook them for too long, but you want them to be tender, not mushy. Just a light sauté before simmering is perfect.
- Not Blending Enough: If the soup isn’t blended well, it can remain chunky. Blend until you achieve that creamy consistency—it’s worth it!
- Forget to Spice it Up: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Spice preferences can vary widely, so don’t hesitate to add more chili powder or cumin if you enjoy a kick.
Pro Tips to Get It Right
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; allowing the vegetables to soften properly brings out the best flavors.
- Remember that leftovers sometimes taste even better! The flavors have time to meld and improve after a little while, perfect for next-day lunches.
For more delicious soup ideas, you might enjoy my Garlicky Feta Chicken Salad or this hearty Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice.
Serving, Storage & Creative Variations
Best Ways to Serve It
This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup can be the perfect centerpiece for a cozy night in or a joyful gathering with friends. Serve it alongside crispy tortilla chips, a fresh garden salad, or some fluffy homemade cornbread for dipping. It makes for an excellent dish to share during celebrations, and its vibrant colors make the table a feast for the eyes too!
Storage + Seasonal or Dietary Variations
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just remember to leave some room for expansion in your container. For an exciting twist, try adding seasonal ingredients like fresh zucchini or sweet potatoes, or turn it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with more beans or hearty veggies.
Check out my Crockpot White Chicken Chili for a delightful change of pace!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Absolutely! Just add it early in the cooking process, allowing enough time for it to cook thoroughly before blending.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Is it okay to add more beans?
Definitely! If you’re a bean lover, feel free to mix in your favorites or use what you have on hand.
What toppings should I add?
Topping choices are endless! Try avocado slices, cilantro, sour cream, or even crispy tortilla strips for added texture.
Conclusion
There you have it: a warm and inviting Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup that’s sure to create memories around your table. The next time you feel a chill in the air or need a touch of comfort, remember this recipe. Keep it close and share it with those you love; after all, if this dish brings back a memory, pass it on. Someone you love might need it today. And if you’re in the mood for other comforting dishes, check out my Cinnamon Roll Cake for more delightful flavors to savor!
You may also love these:
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Melt 1 tablespoon of Butter or Ghee in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced Onion, sliced Celery, thinly sliced Carrot, diced Red Bell Pepper, and chopped Garlic. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes, until they soften and the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in the Ground Cumin, Chili Powder, Dried Oregano, Diced fire-roasted Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, and Chicken Broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow this mixture to come to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
- Remove from heat and, using a hand blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Return the soup to medium heat and add the Red Kidney Beans, Black Beans, Sweet Corn, and Shredded Cooked Chicken. Stir it all together and heat for a couple of minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top it with the Mexican Shredded Cheese Blend or your favorite toppings. Enjoy every bite!