Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: 5 Reasons to Love It

Name: Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: 5 Reasons to Love It
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese; Chopped cilantro for garnish

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my creamy chicken enchilada soup! This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with rich flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance! I can’t get enough of it, especially on chilly nights when I want something comforting, quick, and oh-so-delicious. Seriously, it’s ready in just about 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen.

creamy chicken enchilada soup - detail 1

Now, I’ve got to confess—this recipe has a special place in my heart. It all started when I was trying to impress a friend who was visiting. I wanted to whip up something that screamed “I can cook!” but didn’t require a culinary degree. That’s when I came up with this creamy chicken enchilada soup! It was such a hit that my friend asked for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation, too. You’ll love how the creamy texture pairs beautifully with the spices, making every spoonful a little piece of heaven!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make my creamy chicken enchilada soup. I promise you’ll find these ingredients easy to gather, and they come together to create something truly delicious!

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (feel free to use rotisserie chicken for convenience!)
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (pick your favorite brand for that bold flavor)
4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, your call!)
1 cup heavy cream (this is what makes it so creamy and dreamy)
1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh, just make sure they’re ready to go)
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (for that hearty protein)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned works great, but fresh adds a lovely touch)
1 teaspoon cumin (it gives that warm, earthy flavor)
1 teaspoon chili powder (add more if you like some heat!)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a Mexican blend for extra flavor)
Chopped cilantro for garnish (totally optional, but it adds a nice pop!)

How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Alright, let’s dive into how to whip up my creamy chicken enchilada soup! I promise it’s super straightforward, and you’ll have a delicious bowl of comfort in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be all set!

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large pot, combine the cooked shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and chicken broth. Give it a good stir! This is where the magic begins.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Keep an eye on it—once it starts bubbling, you’ll know it’s time for the next step!
Add the heavy cream, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Wow, the aroma is already heavenly!
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This is when all those flavors get to know each other, so stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
Once it’s nice and thickened, stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely. Oh my goodness, that creamy texture is going to be irresistible!
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if you like. Trust me, it adds a fresh touch that brightens everything up!

And there you have it! Easy, quick, and utterly delicious creamy chicken enchilada soup that’s sure to warm your soul!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
The rich, creamy texture is downright addictive—each spoonful feels like a cozy hug!
Packed with flavor from the enchilada sauce and spices, it’ll make your taste buds sing.
Versatile enough to customize—add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level!
Comforting and hearty, it’s like your favorite enchiladas, but in soup form!
Great for meal prep or leftovers—just store it in the fridge and reheat for a quick lunch!
Kid-friendly, so it’s a hit for the whole family!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make my creamy chicken enchilada soup, let’s talk about some tips that’ll take it from great to absolutely fantastic! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a world of difference.

Choose the right chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor, but you can also use grilled or baked chicken. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned to amp up that deliciousness!
Adjust the spices: If you like a bit of a kick, feel free to add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. And if you prefer it milder, just dial it back. Cooking is all about making it your own!
Experiment with cheese: While a Mexican blend is my go-to, you can switch it up with pepper jack for some extra heat or even a sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. The cheese is what makes it cheesy, so have fun with it!
Fresh ingredients: If you can, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. They add a brightness that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the soup. Plus, you get that lovely texture!
Don’t skip the simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for those 10-15 minutes is crucial. It lets all the flavors mingle and develop. You’ll be amazed at how much better it tastes!
Garnish generously: Don’t be shy with the cilantro or even a squeeze of lime juice before serving. It adds a fresh burst that really makes the soup pop!
Make it your own: Add in some diced bell peppers or even jalapeños for extra texture and flavor. The more you customize, the more special it becomes!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to create a creamy chicken enchilada soup that’s not just good but truly unforgettable. Enjoy the process—cooking should always be fun!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, I’ve got some fantastic variations for my creamy chicken enchilada soup! Trust me, these ideas will keep your taste buds excited and make each bowl feel fresh and new!

Spicy Southwest: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick! If you love heat, this is the way to go!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for black beans or chickpeas and add more veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. You’ll still get that hearty feel without the meat!
Cheesy Fiesta: Mix in a variety of cheeses like Monterey Jack, queso fresco, or even a sprinkle of feta on top for a delightful twist. The more cheese, the merrier!
Tex-Mex Twist: Incorporate some taco seasoning or even a bit of chipotle powder for that smoky flavor. It’ll give your soup a whole new personality!
Creamy Avocado: Blend in some avocado for an ultra-creamy texture. You can even top each bowl with sliced avocado for a fresh finish!
Lime and Cilantro Burst: Squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup just before serving and top with extra chopped cilantro for a refreshing zing that brightens everything up!
Bean Bonanza: Use a mix of beans, such as pinto, kidney, or even white beans, to add variety and depth. Each bean brings its own unique flavor and texture!

With these variations, you can tailor my creamy chicken enchilada soup to fit your mood or the ingredients you have on hand. So go ahead, get creative, and make this soup your own masterpiece!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Okay, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious creamy chicken enchilada soup fresh for later! If you happen to have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a rare treat because it’s so good), here’s how to store and reheat it like a pro.

First off, make sure to let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps to prevent any condensation from forming, which can make things a bit soggy. I usually pour it into a glass or plastic container with a tight lid, and it keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to save some for a longer time, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container because the soup will expand as it freezes. I like to portion it out into single servings so I can just grab what I need later. It’ll last in the freezer for about 2-3 months—perfect for those days when you need a quick meal!

Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options. For the best results, I recommend reheating on the stovetop over medium heat. Just add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of water to loosen it up, and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. It’ll be just as creamy and delicious as when you first made it!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave it. Pour your desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot. Just be careful not to overheat it, or it might lose that lovely creamy texture!

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy my creamy chicken enchilada soup even after the first serving. It’s like having a warm hug waiting for you in the fridge or freezer!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a quick glance at the nutrition facts for my creamy chicken enchilada soup. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so it’s always a good idea to double-check if you’re tracking your intake closely.

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 70mg

As you can see, this soup packs a hearty punch while still being comforting and satisfying. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to mix things up with your favorite ingredients to make it your own!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! If you have fresh chicken on hand, just cook it up first—grilling, baking, or poaching it works perfectly. Once it’s cooked, shred it and then follow the recipe as usual. Just keep in mind you may need to add a bit more cooking time for the chicken to fully cook through!

How can I make this soup spicier?
If you love a kick, you can definitely spice things up! Try adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup. Another great option is to toss in some diced jalapeños or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Just taste as you go to find that perfect level of heat!

Can this soup be made in advance?
Yes, indeed! My creamy chicken enchilada soup is great for meal prep. You can make it a day or two ahead, and it’ll taste even better as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I serve with creamy chicken enchilada soup?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving it with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping. You could also pair it with a fresh side salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal. And don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or some avocado slices on top for extra creaminess!

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! This creamy chicken enchilada soup is naturally gluten-free, especially since it’s made with corn tortillas and no flour. Just double-check the labels on your enchilada sauce and chicken broth to ensure they’re gluten-free, and you’re all set!

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, check out this article.

For a delicious side dish, consider making creamy garlic parmesan pasta to accompany your soup!

And if you’re looking for a refreshing drink to pair with your meal, try spiced apple cider!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.