Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight – Perfect Weeknight Meal in Under 30 Minutes
Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight is a cozy, hearty soup that combines the flavors of chicken enchiladas into a bowl of warmth and comfort. This dish is packed with nutrients and can easily be whipped up on a busy weeknight, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
Why You’ll Love It
This soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s filled with wholesome ingredients, including protein-rich chicken and fiber-loaded beans, making it a fulfilling option. The blend of spices and flavors brings an exciting twist to your regular soup nights. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, taking just under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Substitutions & Key Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are several substitutions you can make:
- Chicken: Replace with shredded rotisserie chicken or use turkey for a leaner option.
- Beans: Pinto or kidney beans work well if you don’t have black beans.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add additional beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version, or skip it entirely for a lighter soup.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re softened and aromatic, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, chicken broth, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro if desired.
Success Tips
- Temperature: Keep your heat at medium to prevent the soup from boiling over, and make sure to stir occasionally.
- Texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, consider adding a splash of cream or sour cream before serving.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid adding too much salt at the beginning. You can always adjust to taste later since broths and sauces can vary in saltiness.
How to Serve
This savory soup is best served hot. You can accompany it with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or even a side salad for a full meal. For added flair, consider garnishing it with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a little extra broth when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Can I use fresh chicken?
Absolutely! You can use fresh chicken; just cook it first in the pot before adding the other ingredients. Make sure to shred it after it’s cooked.
How spicy is this soup?
The spice level can easily be adjusted by modifying the amount of chili powder, or you can add jalapeños for an extra kick if you like it hot.
Nutrition Notes / Equivalents
Each serving of this savory soup is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, primarily due to the chicken and beans. Additionally, it serves as a well-rounded meal option that can keep you feeling satisfied longer.
Conclusion
Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight is a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an excellent recipe to add to your weekly meal rotation. Try it tonight and discover why this savory soup has become a family favorite!
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out some related links below.
Links to Related Recipes
- Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Vegetarian Chili with Beans
- Spicy Taco Soup
- Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup
- Enchilada Soup Recipe
- Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipes,
- Chicken Enchilada Soup,
- Recetas Mexicanas,
- Abendessen Rezepte,
- Easy Soup Recipes,
- Receitas Fitness, Pavlova
Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded Can be replaced with shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained Substitute with pinto or kidney beans if desired.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Add more for extra spice.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on your taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Use dairy-free cheese for lactose-free option.
- to taste Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and aromatic, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, chicken broth, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro if desired.