"Trust Me, You’ll Want to Make a Double Batch of This Incredible Soup!"
This Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup combines the zesty flavors of green enchilada sauce with tender chicken and creamy broth to create a comforting, flavorful dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this soup is so good you'll find yourself going back for seconds—or thirds!
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter – For sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Brings a warm, savory touch.
- 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Tender and flavorful, the heart of the soup.
- 1 (28 oz) can green enchilada sauce – Provides bold, tangy flavor.
- 24 oz chicken broth – Forms the savory base of the soup.
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream – Makes the soup rich and creamy.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed – Adds an extra layer of creaminess.
For Extra Flavor:
- 4 oz green salsa (salsa verde) – Enhances the tangy, zesty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds warmth and depth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
Optional Garnishes:
- Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar) – For a cheesy finish.
- Chopped cilantro – Adds freshness.
- Sliced jalapeños – For extra heat.
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips – For crunch.
- Lime wedges – A zesty touch.
How to Make Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot.
- Pour in the green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and green salsa. Stir to combine.
Simmer Until Tender:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Add the Creamy Elements:
- Stir in the half-and-half and cream cheese. Whisk gently until the cream cheese melts completely and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Season and Serve:
- Add ground cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Big Bold Flavors: The green enchilada sauce and salsa verde bring a zesty, tangy kick.
- Rich and Creamy: The cream cheese and half-and-half make the soup luscious and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a quick and stress-free meal.
- Customizable: Add black beans, corn, or diced avocado for extra texture and flavor.
Pro Tips for Success
- Double the Batch: This soup freezes beautifully, so make extra and save it for a quick meal later.
- Balance the Heat: For less spice, use mild green enchilada sauce and salsa verde. For more heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much.