Need a warm and comforting meal idea? Try this easy green chicken enchilada soup made with shredded chicken and homemade tortillas for a quick weeknight dinner, save for later

Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup for Cozy Dinner

Introduction

This Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly evening, offering a blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors that will leave you and your family craving for more. What makes this recipe stand out is its ease of preparation, use of everyday ingredients, and the room for creativity it allows. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of culinary delights, this soup is an excellent choice for a cozy dinner. It’s a creative twist on traditional enchiladas, transforming them into a comforting, warm bowl of goodness that’s ready in no time.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chicken, green enchilada sauce, and creamy elements like sour cream or half-and-half creates a well-balanced flavor profile. Moreover, the ingredients are easily accessible in most supermarkets, making this dish highly approachable.
Ease of preparation: The simplicity of this recipe lies in its straightforward steps, from sautéing the chicken and onions to mixing everything together and letting it simmer. It’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is impressive and satisfying. The green enchilada sauce gives it a vibrant color and a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress both family and friends.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, green enchilada sauce, onions, garlic, chicken broth, and cream or half-and-half for added richness. You can also customize it with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips. For those looking for substitutions, you can use leftover roasted chicken or turkey, and if you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream or use a non-dairy alternative.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onions and garlic, and slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Measure out your enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and any spices you plan to use.
Step 2: In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through.
Step 3: Pour in the green enchilada sauce and chicken broth, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly. If using, add your cream or half-and-half towards the end of the cooking time to avoid curdling.
Step 4: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the soup hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

Handy Tips

Avoid overcooking the chicken and soup, as it can become too thick and the chicken dry. Keep an eye on the simmering time and adjust the heat as necessary.
For an extra boost of flavor, roast your chicken in the oven before adding it to the soup. This step can add a deeper, richer flavor to your final dish.
Experiment with different types of cheese for topping. Queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or even feta can add unique flavors to your soup.

Heat Control

Maintaining the right heat is crucial for this recipe. Start with medium heat to cook the onions and chicken, then reduce to a simmer once you’ve added the enchilada sauce and broth. This gentle heat will help the flavors meld together without burning the bottom of the pot. The ideal temperature for simmering is between 180°F and 190°F. Monitor the pot to ensure it doesn’t boil over, and adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady simmer.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture, especially the crunch factor, can elevate this dish. Adding crushed tortilla chips on top of the soup provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. You can also add some diced fresh vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra texture and freshness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use high-quality ingredients: While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest options, investing in good-quality enchilada sauce and chicken can make a significant difference in the flavor of your soup.
Don’t overmix: Once you’ve added all your ingredients, avoid overmixing or stirring too much, as this can lead to a thick, unappetizing consistency.
Cleanup as you go: To make the cooking process more enjoyable and reduce the workload at the end, clean up as you go. Chop vegetables and cook the chicken in stages, washing utensils and pots when not in use.

Storage Tips

Leftover storage: Cool the soup to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze it. For refrigeration, use an airtight container and consume within 3 days. For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating tips: Reheat the soup gently over low heat, whisking occasionally to prevent scorching. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Shelf life: Cooked and stored properly, this soup can last for several days in the fridge and months in the freezer. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this soup, especially during the holidays or to someone feeling under the weather, there are several creative ways to package it. Transfer the cooled soup into mason jars, add a decorative lid, and tie a ribbon around the neck. Include a bag of crushed tortilla chips, some shredded cheese, and a few fresh cilantro leaves on the side for a complete gift. You can also include a small note with reheating instructions and a personal message.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Experiment with cumin, paprika, or chipotle peppers to give your soup a unique twist. Each spice will add a distinct flavor profile, from smoky to intensely spicy.
🌟 Creative toppings: Beyond the classic toppings, consider adding diced avocados, sliced black olives, or a sprinkle of queso fresco to enhance the flavor and texture.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with roasted sweet potatoes or zucchini. You can also use different types of protein like shrimp or beef for a variation.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find green enchilada sauce, you can make your own by blending roasted green chilies with chicken broth and spices. For dairy-free alternatives, use non-dairy creamers or yogurts.
Over/undercooking signs: Check the chicken for doneness by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For the soup, taste regularly and adjust the seasoning and heat as needed to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, and store for up to 3 months.
Is it gluten-free? Depending on the brand of enchilada sauce you use, this soup can be gluten-free. Always check the ingredients list to confirm. Additionally, be mindful of the type of tortilla chips you use for topping.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe for larger crowds. Just ensure you have a large enough pot to accommodate all the ingredients.

Conclusion

This Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal repertoire. With its comforting blend of flavors and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and ingredients to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a new favorite dish, this soup is sure to become a staple in your household.

Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Cozy Soup