Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat Oil or Butter
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. - Cook Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
- Combine Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth, enchilada sauce, and canned tomatoes with green chilies. Stir well to combine. - Add Chicken
Stir in the shredded chicken, ensuring it is evenly distributed. - Incorporate Beans and Corn
Add the black beans and corn, mixing them into the soup. - Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a Boil
Turn up the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil. - Reduce Heat and Simmer
Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to heat through.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
- Add Cream
Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring continuously to incorporate. - Melt the Cheese
Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. - Add Cream Cheese
Stir in the cream cheese cubes, allowing them to melt completely into the soup.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup (Optional)
- Make a Flour Slurry
If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry. - Stir Into Soup
Slowly pour the slurry into the soup while stirring. Let the soup simmer for 5–7 minutes until it thickens.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls. - Add Toppings
Top with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken
Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s tender and flavorful. - Choose Your Heat Level
For a spicier soup, use medium or hot enchilada sauce and add diced jalapeños. - Customize Your Ingredients
Swap black beans for pinto beans or add bell peppers for extra vegetables. - Make It Dairy-Free
Substitute coconut milk for cream and leave out the cheese for a dairy-free version.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Flavorful: Combines the bold flavors of enchiladas in a creamy, hearty soup.
- Versatile: Easily customizable to fit your taste or dietary preferences.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup makes it a family favorite.
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the bold, spicy flavors of enchiladas with the satisfying warmth of soup. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and savor the deliciousness!