Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup

Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup is a comforting, creamy soup packed with vibrant flavors of green chiles, tender shredded chicken, and a rich, cheesy broth. Itโ€™s the perfect dish for cozy nights or when youโ€™re craving something satisfying yet easy to make.

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor-packed: Loaded with tangy green enchilada sauce, spices, and cheese for a bold, delicious taste.
  • One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup required, making dinner stress-free.
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences.
  • Comfort food at its best: Creamy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • Green enchilada sauce
  • Chicken broth
  • Cream cheese
  • Shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack or cheddar)
  • Diced green chiles
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Tortilla strips or chips (optional, for topping)

directions

  1. Prepare the base: In a large pot, combine the green enchilada sauce and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Add creaminess: Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and add them to the pot. Stir continuously until fully melted and incorporated.
  3. Season the soup: Add garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add chicken and chiles: Stir in the shredded chicken and diced green chiles. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to heat everything through and blend the flavors.
  5. Melt the cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips if desired, and enjoy!

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Low-carb/keto: Skip the tortilla strips and ensure your enchilada sauce is low-carb.
  • Spicier version: Add diced jalapeรฑos or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
  • Vegetarian: Swap chicken for canned white beans or roasted vegetables.
  • Extra veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.

storage/reheating

  • Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken adds better texture and flavor.

How do I thicken the soup?

If you want a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in. Simmer until the soup thickens.

What cheese melts best in this soup?

Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend melt beautifully and complement the flavors.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine everything except the cheese in a slow cooker, cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cheese before serving.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Check your enchilada sauce and broth labels, but it can easily be made gluten-free with the right ingredients.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, so feel free to make it a day in advance.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, a side salad, or Mexican rice.

Can I use red enchilada sauce instead of green?

You can, though the flavor profile will change. Green sauce adds a tangy, bright flavor, while red sauce is earthier and richer.

What kind of chicken works best?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is the easiest option, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.

Can I add beans or corn?

Definitely! Black beans, white beans, or corn make great additions to bulk up the soup.

Conclusion

Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish thatโ€™s perfect for any occasion. Whether youโ€™re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, this creamy, cheesy soup is sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients, endless customization options, and minimal effort, youโ€™ll keep coming back to this delicious recipe again and again. Enjoy every spoonful!

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Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup

Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the zesty taste of green enchilada sauce with tender chicken, beans, and a medley of spices. This creamy soup is perfect for a cozy meal and can be customized with your favorite toppings.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeรฑo, seeded and diced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup green enchilada sauce
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  • Sautรฉ the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sautรฉ until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and diced jalapeรฑo; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  • Add Chicken and Liquids: Place the chicken thighs or breasts into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, green enchilada sauce, and diced green chiles. Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

  • Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it 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 pot.

  • Incorporate Beans and Corn: Add the drained and rinsed white beans and the frozen corn kernels to the soup. Stir well to combine.

  • Add Creaminess: Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and the soup is creamy. This may take a few minutes of stirring.

  • Finalize the Flavor: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro, if using, and the lime juice. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.

  • Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, tortilla strips, or additional cilantro.


Notes

  • For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of chipotle chili powder or using a spicier green enchilada sauce.
  • This soup pairs well with warm cornbread or a side of tortilla chips.

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