Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. This slow-cooked soup features tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty green chiles, all enveloped in a creamy enchilada base. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and easy to prepare. With every spoonful, you can expect rich flavors and wholesome ingredients that make this soup a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

This delightful soup is not only delicious but also offers numerous benefits that will make it a staple in your kitchen. Firstly, it’s a healthy chicken enchilada soup packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The combination of black beans and white kidney beans provides a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it filling and nutritious. Secondly, it’s an easy green chicken soup that can be made in a slow cooker, allowing you to prepare it with minimal effort. Thirdly, the creamy texture from the cream cheese adds a rich mouthfeel that’s hard to resist. This recipe is also gluten-free, catering to those with dietary restrictions. With the addition of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that elevates this dish. Overall, this Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Gather these items:

1 15.5-ounce can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 15.5-ounce cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (or small chicken breasts)
2 4-ounce cans diced green chiles
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes (optional)
1 10-ounce can green enchilada sauce
4 teaspoons ground chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 8-ounce package cream cheese
1 large lime (optional)
3 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional)
Toppings as desired

How to Make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add beans, chicken, green chiles (with liquid), tomatoes (with liquid), enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir and spread evenly.
Step 2: Cook on LOW for 5–7 hours or HIGH for 3–5 hours until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and shreds easily.
Step 3: Remove chicken. Add softened cream cheese to slow cooker and whisk.
Step 4: Cook on HIGH for 10–20 minutes until melted, whisking until smooth.
Step 5: Shred chicken and stir back in. Add lime juice and cilantro if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 6: Serve with toppings as desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Keep these in mind:

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth.
Feel free to add a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or jalapeños for extra flair.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep; it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Best Ways to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

For a complete meal, consider pairing this soup with warm tortillas or crunchy tortilla chips. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad to balance the flavors. Don’t forget to sprinkle some cheese on top for a creamy finish!

How to Store and Reheat Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

To store the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it a great option for quick lunches or dinners!

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Using quality ingredients, especially fresh chicken and spices, enhances taste significantly.

Can I make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this soup a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove before serving to ensure it’s warm and delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that all ingredients are measured accurately and avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Stir the cream cheese in well to achieve a smooth texture.

Variations of Green Chicken Enchilada Soup You Can Try

There are several ways to customize this soup! You can prepare a vegetarian version of chicken enchilada soup by substituting the chicken with beans or tofu. For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce. If you prefer a creamy green chicken soup, increase the amount of cream cheese used.

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Savor - Green Chicken Enchilada Soup - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup or explore Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas for a delightful twist on traditional flavors.

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Savor - Green Chicken Enchilada Soup - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of beans, you can visit Healthline for a comprehensive overview.