Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

If you love the bold, comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine but want a warm, cozy bowl of goodness, then this Chicken Enchilada Soup is going to be your new favorite. Packed with tender chicken, smoky chipotle peppers, and vibrant veggies like bell peppers and fire-roasted tomatoes, this soup delivers that classic enchilada taste in a comforting, spoonable form. Whether it’s chilly outside or you just want an easy, flavorful meal, Chicken Enchilada Soup hits the spot with every delicious bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Enchilada Soup lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the sweetness of corn to the smoky depth of chipotle peppers, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures you’ll love.

• Yellow onion: Diced and sautéed for a sweet, aromatic base that brings everything together.
• Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness that balances the smoky spices.
• Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the soup with pungent, savory warmth.
• Fire-roasted tomatoes: Canned and ready to add a smoky, rich tomato flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Tomato sauce: Thickens and deepens the soup’s tomato background, making it luscious and hearty.
• Black beans: Drained and rinsed for a creamy texture and added protein that makes the soup truly filling.
• Corn kernels: Sweetness and crunch that brighten each spoonful with a touch of freshness.
• Cumin: A warm, earthy spice providing classic Mexican flavor tones.
• Oregano: Herbal notes that round out the seasoning with a Mediterranean touch.
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: For a smoky, spicy kick that defines the “enchilada” essence of this soup.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and hearty, that soaks up all the bold flavors beautifully.
• Chicken broth: Creates the perfect, comforting liquid base to tie everything together.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste that enhance all the natural flavors.

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a splash of oil. Toss in the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they become soft, fragrant, and a little golden, which builds that deeply flavorful base you’ll notice from the first spoonful.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Next, stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato sauce to the softened vegetables. Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Then, stir in the chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for that smoky heat that brings Chicken Enchilada Soup to life. Let everything simmer so the spices meld and the tomatoes deepen in flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth, Beans, and Corn

Pour in the chicken broth along with the drained black beans and sweet corn kernels. The broth will infuse the soup with warmth while the beans and corn add hearty texture and balance. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat for a healthy simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Gently add the boneless skinless chicken breasts to the pot, submerging them in the flavorful broth. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Once done, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks before returning it to the pot to soak up all the delicious goodness.

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup

Garnishes

Enhance your bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup with a handful of vibrant garnishes. Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese add that extra layer of flavor and freshness you won’t want to skip.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crispy tortilla chips or a side of cornbread for dipping. For a more substantial meal, add a simple green salad dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette to balance the smoky, rich flavors of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup in mini bread bowls for a fun twist or layer it with tortilla strips, cheese, and sour cream in a clear glass bowl to create a deconstructed enchilada experience. Either way, the presentation will impress while keeping things casual and comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Enchilada Soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen even more the next day, so leftovers often taste even better than fresh.

Freezing

This soup freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. Just be mindful to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve the texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore that perfect spoonable consistency.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Add it during the last few minutes of cooking just to warm it through, which will save you time without sacrificing flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce pack some heat, but it’s moderate and smoky rather than overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit them if you prefer a milder soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans or some diced tofu for protein and a similar hearty texture.

What toppings work best for Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and crispy tortilla strips. These add freshness, creaminess, and extra crunch, elevating every bite.

How thick is Chicken Enchilada Soup?

This soup strikes a beautiful balance—not too thick and not too brothy. It has a stew-like heartiness with plenty of chunky ingredients, making it satisfying and comforting without being heavy.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Enchilada Soup is one of those cozy dishes that feels like a hug from the inside out, packed with bold flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any day you want a little extra warmth. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

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