Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Hello, friend! Iโm so glad youโre here. Green Chicken Enchilada Soup brings the cozy flavors of your favorite Mexican dinner into a comforting bowl. A creamy broth made with green enchilada sauce and tender shredded chicken comes together with just a quick simmer on the stovetop. Itโs the perfect meal to warm up with on a chilly weeknight, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
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Ingredients for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a bowl of this creamy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup. Itโs truly an easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup to pull together, even on a busy night.
For the soup
- Olive oil โ Just a splash to get everything started.
- Yellow onion โ Finely chopped for a sweet, savory base.
- Garlic โ Freshly minced is a must for that deep, aromatic flavor.
- Chicken breasts โ Boneless and skinless keeps it lean and easy to shred.
- Ground cumin โ Adds that warm, earthy depth we all love.
- Chili powder โ A little goes a long way for a subtle kick.
- Chicken broth โ The base of our soupโgo for a good quality one.
- Green enchilada sauce โ The star of the show! Canned is just fine.
- Diced green chiles โ Brings a mild heat and tangy brightness.
- Black beans โ Rinse them well to avoid any excess starch.
- Frozen corn โ Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
- Heavy cream โ For that rich, velvety finish.
- Sour cream โ Stirred in for creaminess, plus extra for topping.
- Kosher salt โ To enhance all the flavors.
- Black pepper โ A pinch to round everything out.
For serving
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese โ Melts beautifully over the hot soup.
- Tortilla strips โ The perfect crunchy garnish.
- Fresh cilantro โ Chopped for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Cook Time for Creamy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
One of my favorite things about this one-pot green chili stew is how it fits so perfectly into a weeknight schedule. Believe me, I know how chaotic those evenings can be.
Thatโs why I love that this Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is ready in under an hour. The timing is so straightforward.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
While you wait for the soup to simmer, why not check out my other healthy soup recipes for more cozy meal inspiration?
How to Make One-Pot Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Letโs get cooking! This process is wonderfully simple, making it a great recipe to get the whole family involved. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly.
Step 1: Sautรฉ the Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium yellow onion and cook for 5โ7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices
Add 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
Place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 (10-ounce) can of green enchilada sauce.
Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15โ20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 4: Shred and Combine
Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Step 5: Add the Veggies
Stir in 1 (4-ounce) can of diced green chiles, 1 (15-ounce) can of rinsed and drained black beans, and 1 cup of frozen corn. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to heat everything through.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Broth
Turn off the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of sour cream until the soup is smooth and creamy. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, Iโve made this savory slow-cooked chicken tortilla soup more times than I can count. Consequently, Iโve picked up a few tricks to make it even more delicious and adaptable to your tastes.
- Flavor Swap: If youโre craving a different protein, this soup is just as wonderful with the shredded chicken from my cilantro lime chicken. It adds a wonderfully bright, zesty twist.
- Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, you can easily swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. The soup will be a bit less rich but still incredibly satisfying.
- Prep/Texture Fix: Donโt skip rinsing the black beans! This simple step removes the excess starch and salt, ensuring your zesty stovetop green chili chowder has a clear, clean broth.
- Storage/Reheat Tip: This soup stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. For another great make-ahead meal, check out my favorite chicken casserole.
Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can green enchilada sauce 10 ounce
- 1 can diced green chiles 4 ounce
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained, 15 ounce
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese for serving
- Tortilla strips for serving
- Fresh cilantro chopped, for serving
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- cutting board
- measuring cups
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- Place the whole chicken breasts into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and green enchilada sauce. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the soup.
- Stir in the diced green chiles, black beans, and frozen corn. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to heat everything through.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until the soup is smooth and creamy. Season with the salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
Itโs always important to me that the food we share is not just delicious but also nourishing. This comforting Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a wonderful balance of protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a meal you can feel good about serving. Letโs take a closer look at what makes this creamy shredded chicken chili soup such a wholesome choice.
This recipe is packed with lean protein from the chicken breasts and black beans, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied. The veggies like onions, garlic, and corn contribute valuable vitamins and antioxidants. For more inspiration on creating balanced meals, I often turn to this collection of healthy soup recipes.
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lean Chicken Breast | High-quality protein for muscle maintenance. |
| Black Beans & Corn | Excellent source of dietary fiber for digestive health. |
| Green Chiles & Garlic | Packed with antioxidants to support your immune system. |
While the creamy elements add richness, you can easily adjust them to fit your dietary needs, which weโll talk about next. If youโre looking for another nutrient-packed option, my Mexican Sweet Potato Chicken Soup is another family favorite. For a deeper understanding of the dishโs background, you can read about the Green Enchilada Soup Origins from a trusted educational source.
A Lighter Version of Creamy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
I believe that a great recipe should be able to adapt to your life, whether youโre looking for a decadent treat or a lighter meal. Creating an easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup thatโs a bit lighter is wonderfully simple and doesnโt sacrifice any of the cozy flavor we love.
For a less rich but equally satisfying simmered one-pot green chili stew, try swapping the heavy cream for an equal amount of half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use light sour cream or even plain Greek yogurt for a tangy boost of protein. These small changes make a big difference!
Another great tip is to amp up the vegetables. Adding an extra half-cup of corn or a can of rinsed diced tomatoes can make the soup heartier without adding fat. For more lean and flavorful ideas, my easy grilled chicken breast is a perfect staple to have on hand. And if you love the flavors here, youโll find more smart swaps in my guide to healthy Mexican food.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Gathering around the table is one of lifeโs greatest joys, and I want everyone to feel included. Whether youโre cooking for someone who is sugar-conscious or simply paying closer attention to ingredients, a few thoughtful tweaks can make this Green Chicken Enchilada Soup a fantastic, diabetic-friendly option for all to enjoy.
Since this savory slow-cooked chicken tortilla soup is already quite balanced, the adjustments are minimal. First, be sure to use a no-sugar-added green enchilada sauce, as some brands can include unexpected sweeteners. When Iโm making this for my friend who is mindful of her glycemic intake, I also skip the tortilla strip garnish and serve it with a side of sliced avocado instead for a creamy, blood sugar friendly fat.
Portion control is another simple yet effective strategy for glycemic control. Serving a slightly smaller bowl alongside a big green salad creates a perfectly balanced meal. Remember, the best approach is always the one that makes you feel your best!
How to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
This is my favorite partโbringing the bowl to life! Serving this zesty stovetop green chili chowder is where the magic happens, turning a simple soup into a memorable meal. It reminds me of the lively dinners weโd have after a day at the local market, where the table was always crowded with bowls, toppings, and happy chatter.
I love setting up a topping bar so everyone can customize their bowl. Alongside the classic shredded cheese and cilantro, try offering diced avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or even a spoonful of this cilantro lime chicken for an extra flavor boost. For a heartier meal, this soup pairs beautifully with a side of my ground beef tacos, making for a festive and satisfying spread that welcomes everyone to the table.
Mistakes to Avoid
Iโve made this comforting Green Chicken Enchilada Soup countless times over the years, and through happy accidents and learning experiences, Iโve discovered a few common pitfalls that can affect your final result. Let me share them with you so your creamy shredded chicken chili soup turns out perfect every single time.
One mistake I see often is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and stringy. Remember to simmer just until cooked through, then remove and shred it before returning to the pot. Another issue is using the wrong type of green enchilada sauceโsome brands can be overly salty or thin, so always taste before adding extra salt. For more guidance on cooking poultry perfectly, my bbq chicken breasts guide has great tips.
Lastly, donโt rush the simmering process! This savory slow-cooked chicken tortilla soup needs time for the flavors to marry properly. If youโre short on time, consider this trusted Slow Cooker Method from Old El Paso, which simplifies the process beautifully. Whatever you do, avoid boiling the soup after adding dairy, as it can cause curdlingโgentle heating is key.
How to Store Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
This recipe always reminds me of my grandmother, who believed soup tasted better the next day. Sheโd make big batches of her cheesy baked enchilada chicken stew on Sundays, and weโd enjoy it throughout the weekโthe flavors deepening with each passing day. I still follow her wisdom when storing this wonderful one-pot Green Chicken Enchilada Soup.
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and I find the texture actually improves as the ingredients meld together. For freezing, omit any dairy additions and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If youโve frozen it without dairy, simply add your cream or sour cream after thawing and warming. This soup also makes a fantastic base for other dishesโtry using leftovers in my chicken casserole or as a sauce for chicken pasta bake for a creative next-day meal!
Try This Green Chicken Enchilada Soup Yourself
I truly hope this zesty stovetop green chili chowder becomes a regular in your kitchen rotation, just as it has in mine. Thereโs something magical about how this Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup brings people together around the table, creating moments of connection over steaming bowls of comfort.
I remember the first time I served this to friends during a chilly autumn eveningโthe way the conversation flowed as freely as the soup disappeared. Thatโs the beauty of this dish: it nourishes both body and soul. Whether youโre cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering, this recipe adapts to your needs beautifully.
If you love this soup, you might also enjoy my other comforting creations like this classic chicken soup recipe, this hearty chicken taco soup, or this flavorful sweet potato chicken soup recipe. Each one carries that same homemade warmth that makes every meal feel special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are chicken enchiladas verde?
Chicken enchiladas verde are traditional Mexican enchiladas filled with chicken and covered in green salsa made from tomatillos. Our Green Chicken Enchilada Soup captures those same vibrant flavors in a comforting, spoonable form thatโs easier to make but equally delicious.
How do you make chicken enchiladas?
Traditional chicken enchiladas involve filling tortillas with shredded chicken, rolling them up, and baking them with sauce and cheese. This soup gives you all those wonderful flavors without the assembly workโitโs like deconstructed enchiladas in a bowl!
What is tortilla soup?
Tortilla soup is a Mexican-inspired soup featuring a tomato-based broth, chicken, and crispy tortilla strips. While our Green Chicken Enchilada Soup shares some similarities, it features a creamy green chile base rather than tomato, creating a unique flavor profile thatโs equally comforting.
What is salsa verde?
Salsa verde, or โgreen sauce,โ is a Mexican condiment made from tomatillos, green chilies, onions, and cilantro. It forms the flavor base for our Green Chicken Enchilada Soup, giving it that distinctive tangy, slightly spicy character that makes this dish so memorable.
What are enchiladas?
Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of corn tortillas rolled around a filling and covered with chili sauce. Our soup takes inspiration from enchiladas verdes (green enchiladas) but transforms them into an easy, one-pot meal that delivers all the same comforting flavors.
How do you make tacos?
Tacos typically involve filling folded tortillas with various meats, cheeses, and toppings. While different from our soup, they share similar Mexican flavor influences. If you love tacos, youโll appreciate this ground beef tacos recipe that pairs wonderfully with our Green Chicken Enchilada Soup for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
More Cozy Recipes Youโll Love
If this Green Chicken Enchilada Soup warmed your heart, here are more comforting dishes that bring people together around the table.
Juicy Chicken Burgers โ Perfectly seasoned patties that grill up tender and flavorful for easy weeknight dinners.
Healing Chicken Soup โ Classic comfort in a bowl with tender chicken, vegetables, and nourishing broth.
Easy Ground Beef Tacos โ Family-friendly tacos with seasoned beef and all your favorite toppings.
Lightened-Up Mexican Favorites โ Flavorful dishes that celebrate Mexican cuisine while keeping things balanced.
