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Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soupù

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting and hearty soup combining tender shredded chicken, creamy texture from cream cheese, and classic enchilada spices. Quick and easy to prepare, this vibrant soup provides a perfect balance of rich flavors and mild spice, ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs

Sauce and Broth

  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 4 cups chicken broth

Dairy

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Fresh lime juice
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Sliced avocado
  • Crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of oil over medium heat until they are soft and fragrant, allowing them to slightly caramelize without burning to build the soup’s flavor foundation.
  2. Add spices and enchilada sauce: Stir in chili powder, cumin, and diced green chilies, then pour in the enchilada sauce and chicken broth, mixing well for a smooth combination of flavors.
  3. Incorporate chicken and corn: Add the shredded chicken and corn kernels to the pot. Let the soup simmer so the flavors meld and it warms through evenly.
  4. Make it creamy: Reduce the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts completely, creating a silky, creamy texture.
  5. Final touches: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro, adding brightness and balance before serving.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising flavor.
  • Soften cream cheese before adding for a smooth texture.
  • Don’t skip the lime; it cuts through the richness and enhances taste.
  • Simmer gently after adding cream cheese to avoid curdling.
  • Adjust thickness by adding more broth or simmering longer.
  • Substitute cream cheese with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or cashew cream for dairy-free or alternative creaminess.
  • Can be made in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients except cream cheese, cooking on low 4-6 hours, then stirring in cream cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken soup, enchilada soup, creamy soup, comfort food, easy dinner, Mexican soup, weeknight meal, family-friendly