Name: Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon Oil; 1 small Onion (finely diced); 1 whole Jalapeno (finely diced); 2 to 3 cups Chicken Broth (Start with 2 cups and add more if desired); 1 28-ounce can Green Enchilada Sauce; 1 7-ounce can Chopped Green Chiles; 1 8-ounce pkg. Cream Cheese (softened, cut into cubes); 1 teaspoon Pepper; 3 cups Rotisserie Chicken (shredded); 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese (divided); 1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped, plus more for garnish); Fried Corn Tortilla Strips; Avocado; Cilantro; Monterey Jack Cheese

Introduction to Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

If you're a fan of warm, comforting meals that pack a flavorful punch, then green chile chicken enchilada soup is a must-try for you! This dish beautifully combines the richness of cream cheese, the zest of green enchilada sauce, and the heartiness of shredded rotisserie chicken. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a bowl that feels like a hug in soup form.

Why is green chile chicken enchilada soup a must-try?

One of the standout features of this soup is its versatility. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for entertaining friends, this recipe delivers. Filled with spicy jalapeños and vibrant green chiles, it promises a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Let’s not forget about the toppings! Homemade fried tortilla strips add the perfect crunch, while fresh avocado and cilantro bring a refreshing touch that balances the creaminess of the soup. For more tips on making the perfect tortilla strips, check out articles from trusted food blogs like The Kitchn.

Ultimately, this green chile chicken enchilada soup encapsulates the essence of cozy cooking—it's simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to steal the show at your dinner table. Trust us; after one taste, you'll be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Essential ingredients for a flavor-packed soup

When preparing your green chile chicken enchilada soup, it’s important to gather the right ingredients to ensure a delightful and robust flavor. You’ll need:

1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)
1 small onion, finely diced
1 jalapeño, finely diced (for that extra kick)
2-3 cups chicken broth (adjust for consistency)
1 can (28 ounces) green enchilada sauce
1 can (7 ounces) chopped green chilies
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
1 teaspoon pepper
3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, divided
¼ cup cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnishing)

Choosing the right chicken

For the best texture and flavor in your green chile chicken enchilada soup, I recommend using rotisserie chicken. It’s not only convenient but also tender and packed with flavor. If you’d prefer to use raw chicken, however, you can poach and shred it before adding it to your soup. This method can be a bit more labor-intensive, but the homemade taste can be incredibly rewarding. Just be sure to season it well to enhance the overall profile of your soup!

For more tips on chicken choices, check out resources like The Kitchn's Guide to Chicken.

Step-by-step preparation of Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Creating a hearty bowl of green chile chicken enchilada soup is an enjoyable culinary adventure, perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at gatherings. Let’s get right to it with a simple, friendly guide to get you started!

Gather and prep your ingredients

To begin your soup journey, first, gather all your ingredients. This includes:

1 Tablespoon Oil
1 small Onion (finely diced)
1 Jalapeno (finely diced)
2 to 3 cups Chicken Broth
1 (28-ounce) can Green Enchilada Sauce
1 (7-ounce) can Chopped Green Chiles
1 (8-ounce) package Cream Cheese (softened, cut into cubes)
1 teaspoon Pepper
3 cups Rotisserie Chicken, shredded
2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese (divided)
¼ cup Cilantro (chopped, plus more for garnish)

And don’t forget your toppings — think fried corn tortilla strips, fresh avocado, and cilantro! Having everything laid out helps streamline the cooking process and makes sure you won’t be scrambling mid-recipe.

Sauté the base for your soup

Heat a pot over medium heat and add the oil. Toss in the finely diced onions and jalapeños, letting them cook for about 8-9 minutes. This step is crucial; you want those veggies to become soft and tender, creating a flavorful base for your green chile chicken enchilada soup. If you can smell that savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, you're on the right track!

Combine the flavorful components

Once your onions and jalapeños are ready, it’s time for the magic! Pour in the chicken broth and the green enchilada sauce. Add the chopped green chiles and the cream cheese, but make sure to drop it in small cubes. This will help it melt more quickly and evenly into the broth. Stir and let it all simmer for about 5 minutes while you reminisce about that delightful Mexican café you once visited.

Add the chicken and cheese

Next up, add your shredded rotisserie chicken, one cup of Monterey Jack cheese, and chopped cilantro. This will elevate your soup to a new level of creaminess and flavor! Let this concoction cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. If you find that it’s too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Understand the perfect topping

A great green chile chicken enchilada soup isn’t complete without the right toppings. Prepare your fried corn tortilla strips, which add a satisfying crunch. When it’s time to serve, top each bowl with crispy tortilla strips, the remaining Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro, and creamy avocado. This aromatic assembly will make your culinary creation not only delicious but visually delightful too!

Variations on Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Vegetarian Adaptations

Craving that delicious green chile chicken enchilada soup but want to skip the meat? No problem! Swap out the chicken for hearty ingredients like black beans, chickpeas, or grilled zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian twist. Adding corn and bell peppers will give your soup a delicious texture and freshness, and don’t forget to enhance the creaminess with extra cream cheese or a plant-based alternative!

Spice It Up!

If you’re a fan of heat, consider spicing things up! Incorporate some diced serrano or habanero peppers for added kick. You can also toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce for that extra flavor boost. Want to take it a step further? Experiment with smoky flavors by adding a touch of chipotle in adobo sauce for a deep, rich taste that complements the green chile chicken enchilada soup perfectly.

Cooking tips and notes for Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Perfecting the creaminess

To achieve that luscious, velvety texture in your green chile chicken enchilada soup, opt for full-fat cream cheese for the best result. Low-fat options can curdle, ruining the creaminess you crave. If you want an extra touch of richness, you can stir in some heavy cream just before serving!

Making it ahead of time

This soup is perfect for meal prepping! Simply prepare it up to the point of adding the toppings and refrigerate. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much. This way, you can savor the flavors even more as they meld together overnight.

For more tips on meal prep, check out resources from Food Network and EatingWell.

Serving suggestions for Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Beautiful toppings to enhance your dish

Elevate your green chile chicken enchilada soup with some delicious toppings! Fresh avocado slices add a creamy texture, while a sprinkle of cilantro brightens the flavors. Don’t forget to pile on extra Monterey Jack cheese for that cheesy goodness. For a delightful crunch, top it with homemade fried tortilla strips. Feel free to experiment too! Sliced jalapeños or dollops of sour cream can also add fantastic flavor twists.

What to pair with your soup

Pair your soup with a crisp side salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully. Alternatively, serve alongside warm corn or flour tortillas for dipping. If you love dips, consider a side of guacamole or pico de gallo. This green chile chicken enchilada soup is versatile, so mix and match until you find your favorite combination!

Time Breakdown for Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Preparation Time
Get ready in just 10 minutes! Gather all your ingredients and chop the onions and jalapeños while the pot warms up.

Cooking Time
Then, it's time to enjoy some culinary fun—15 minutes of cooking! Just simmer everything together in a pot for a creamy and flavorful result.

Total Time
From start to finish, you're looking at a delightful 25 minutes for this comforting green chile chicken enchilada soup. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch!

If you're curious about the community recipes or tips from other cooking enthusiasts, you might want to check out platforms like Allrecipes for more inspiration.

Nutritional Facts for Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

When you whip up this Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup, it’s not just the comforting flavors that you’ll love; the nutrition is pretty appealing too!

Calories

A single serving of this delicious soup contains approximately 350 calories. It’s a hearty yet light option, perfect for a satisfying meal without the guilt.

Protein

Packed with 25 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the shredded rotisserie chicken and creamy cheese, this soup will keep you feeling full and fueled throughout your day.

Sodium

While it’s full of flavor, you should be aware that each bowl contains around 900 mg of sodium. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth and enchilada sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.

Feel free to explore more about the health benefits of ingredients like chicken and green chiles in this National Chicken Council article to see how they contribute to a balanced diet! Enjoy your cooking!

FAQs about Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The green chile chicken enchilada soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. To make it ahead, simply prepare the soup as instructed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder soup, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or use a milder variety like a green bell pepper. On the flip side, if you've got a taste for heat, consider adding an extra can of green chilies or a dash of hot sauce. Remember, it's all about finding that perfect balance that suits your palate!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

To keep your green chile chicken enchilada soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth if the soup has thickened too much. For long-term storage, freeze it for up to three months in a freezer-safe container. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

For more tips on storing soups, feel free to check out resources from FoodSafety.gov and USDA.gov. Enjoy your cooking!

Conclusion on Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making and savoring this green chile chicken enchilada soup is a fantastic culinary adventure. The creamy texture, zesty flavor, and comforting aromas will make it a favorite in your home. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and a delightful end result ensure you'll love every bowl! Share the joy with family and friends.