Name: Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. olive oil; 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely diced; 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced; 1 tsp. kosher salt; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 15 oz. jar green enchilada sauce (or salsa verde is a fine option too); 1 4 oz. can diced green chiles ((mild)); 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1 tsp. cumin; 1 tsp. chipotle chili pepper powder; 4 oz. full-fat cream cheese, softened (cut into cubes); 1 rotisserie chicken shredded; 1 15 oz. can yellow corn (drained); 1 15 oz. can pinto beans (drained and rinsed); 1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature)

Introduction to Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup but settling for takeout, it’s time to reconsider. Homemade soup, like our delicious green chicken enchilada soup, is not only fresher but also allows you to control the flavors and ingredients. Crafting your own soup means you can skip preservatives and additives often found in store-bought alternatives, leading to a healthier meal option. Plus, there's something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish from scratch, especially when you can customize it to your liking.

Imagine the rich, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as you simmer chicken, spices, and creamy goodness together. This wholesome soup takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. On top of that, it’s budget-friendly, especially when you can utilize a rotisserie chicken for added convenience.

Beyond the health benefits, you can’t beat the joy of loading up your green chicken enchilada soup with fresh toppings like creamy avocado, crunchy tortilla strips, and vibrant cilantro. It’s a communal dish that invites everyone to join in! So next time hunger strikes, ditch the takeout menu and gather your ingredients for a hearty and fulfilling homemade soup experience. For detailed guidance on how to make it, check out the full recipe below!

Ingredients for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Creating a delicious bowl of green chicken enchilada soup starts with gathering fresh, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you need:

Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing
Onion: 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely diced to add sweetness
Jalapeño: 1, seeded and diced for that perfect kick
Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced to boost aroma and taste
Chicken broth: 3 cups as the savory base
Green enchilada sauce: 1 (15 oz) jar, or opt for salsa verde for a different twist
Diced green chiles: 1 (4 oz) can, mild for a subtle heat
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon for earthy notes
Cumin: 1 teaspoon, bringing out warmth and depth
Chipotle chili pepper powder: 1 teaspoon for an extra spice layer
Cream cheese: 4 oz., softened and cubed for creaminess
Rotisserie chicken: Shredded, making your cooking quicker and easier
Yellow corn: 1 (15 oz) can, drained for sweetness
Pinto beans: 1 (15 oz) can, drained and rinsed for added protein
Sour cream: ½ cup, at room temperature for a rich finish

Remember, the soup is truly enhanced by toppings like fried tortilla strips, avocado, and fresh cilantro! For instance, consider exploring ingredient sourcing from trusted providers like Fresh Direct for quality veggies and proteins. Enjoy cooking!

Preparing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

When it comes to cozy nights in, nothing beats a big bowl of delicious green chicken enchilada soup. This hearty dish combines flavors that are sure to warm you from the inside out. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the steps to create this savory masterpiece!

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before you even turn on the stove, it’s essential to have everything ready. Gather your ingredients:

2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 medium yellow or white onion, finely diced
1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
1 tsp. kosher salt
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
1 jar (15 oz.) green enchilada sauce
1 can (4 oz.) diced green chiles (mild)
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. chipotle chili pepper powder
4 oz. full-fat cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 can (15 oz.) yellow corn, drained
1 can (15 oz.) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup sour cream, room temperature

Set up your workspace for easy access, and don’t forget to wash all your fresh produce; it keeps the kitchen clean and safe. A firm kitchen routine can make cooking feel less like a chore and more like a joy—feel free to check out this guide on meal prepping for tips!

Sauté the aromatics

Now it's time to add some flavor! Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, jalapeno, and kosher salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. The smell alone will be a fantastic preview of the green chicken enchilada soup ahead. Don't rush this step—aromatics create a flavorful foundation!

Build the flavorful base

Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Now it’s time to add the chicken broth, green enchilada sauce, diced green chiles, oregano, cumin, and chipotle chili powder. This robust combination is where the magic happens! Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes. Allowing the flavors to meld will provide a solid base for your soup.

Combine and let it simmer

At this point, gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, corn, and pinto beans. Make sure everything is well mixed. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes; this will ensure every bite is rich and savory. If you like, you can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Add the creaminess

To brighten things up and achieve that luscious texture everyone loves, stir in the softened cream cheese and sour cream until fully incorporated. This last step elevates the green chicken enchilada soup to creamy perfection. As you serve your soup, don't skimp on the toppings—avocado, fried tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro make fantastic additions.

Now, grab a bowl and enjoy! Your homemade green chicken enchilada soup is ready to warm your heart and bring comfort to your dinner table. Happy cooking!

Variations on Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Spicy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Craving something with a kick? Transform your green chicken enchilada soup into a fiery delight by adding extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with spicier varieties of green enchilada sauce to elevate the heat. For the adventurous, consider substituting chipotle chili powder with cayenne pepper — just a pinch can make a world of difference!

Vegetarian Green Enchilada Soup

For a vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken for hearty black beans or chickpeas. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and for creaminess, add more cream cheese. You’ll be surprised how satisfying a vegetarian green enchilada soup can be! Enhance the flavor by tossing in some roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers, and don’t forget those favorite garnishes!

Exploring these variations is a great way to make the dish truly your own. Share your unique twists in the comments below!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

When preparing your green chicken enchilada soup, don’t skip sautéing the onions and jalapeños! This step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Consider using a rotisserie chicken for ease—it's a time-saver and packed with juicy goodness.

Feel free to adjust the level of spice by either adding more jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For toppings, get creative! Fresh avocado and crispy tortilla strips add amazing textures. If you're looking for a healthier option, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. Want to learn more about cooking tips? Check out these resources to enhance your skills!

Serving suggestions for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

When it comes to green chicken enchilada soup, toppings are where the magic happens! Elevate your bowl by adding:

Avocado: Creamy slices or a dollop of guacamole make a refreshing contrast to the spicy broth.
Fried Tortilla Strips: For an added crunch, sprinkle these on top. A quick fry in some oil will do the trick, or try baking them for a healthier twist!
Fresh Cilantro or Scallions: These herbs add brightness and depth, enhancing the flavors already in the soup.
Grated Cheese: Go for a mix of your favorites—sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even queso fresco for that authentic touch.
Sour Cream: A spoonful on top adds creaminess and balances out the heat.

With these simple additions, your green chicken enchilada soup will not only taste amazing but also look enticing. Enjoy the combination of flavors and textures that make this dish a standout in any gathering!

Time Breakdown for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your green chicken enchilada soup is a breeze! You’ll spend just 10 minutes chopping vegetables, shredding chicken, and measuring out your ingredients.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, cooking the soup will take around 20 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly the flavors meld together on the stove!

Total Time

From start to finish, your delicious green chicken enchilada soup will be ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal!

Nutritional Facts for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

When you're diving into a bowl of delicious Green Chicken Enchilada Soup, it's good to know what you’re getting. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts:

Calories

Each serving packs about 337 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy choice for any meal.

Protein

With a generous protein content of 30 grams, this soup is excellent for fueling your active lifestyle.

Sodium

Keep an eye on the sodium levels, as each serving contains approximately 900 mg. Pair it with plenty of fresh toppings to balance things out!

As you enjoy this comforting soup, consider how easily it fits into a balanced diet. For more tips on healthy eating, check out resources like Healthline or Mayo Clinic. Enjoy every spoonful!

FAQ about Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! Green chicken enchilada soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving; the flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier!

What toppings work best?

Toppings are the star of this dish! You can customize it to your liking with options such as:

Crispy fried tortilla strips
Creamy avocado slices
Fresh cilantro
Grated cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar
A dollop of sour cream

Feel free to mix and match—everyone loves a little personalization in their soup!

Is it possible to freeze green chicken enchilada soup?

Yes, you can freeze green chicken enchilada soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop. It’s a great way to savor those delicious flavors for months to come!

For more helpful tips, check out this source on freezing soups.

Conclusion on Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

In conclusion, green chicken enchilada soup is a versatile and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavors, it's quick to prepare and can easily adapt to your taste preferences. Whether served as a cozy dinner or a delightful appetizer, this soup brings comfort to your table every time. Explore more on cooking tips and variations to make it your own!