Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: A Bowl of Comfort and Flavor
If you love the bold flavors of enchiladas but crave the cozy warmth of soup, creamy chicken enchilada soup is the perfect dish for you. Packed with tender chicken, a rich and creamy base, and the signature spices of Mexican cuisine, this soup is both hearty and easy to make. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious meal.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
To make a flavorful pot of chicken enchilada soup, you’ll need:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (red or green, depending on preference)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Base:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
For Toppings (Optional):
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Lime wedges