Growing up, there was nothing better than coming home to a warm, comforting bowl of soup after a long day. Now, as a busy home cook, I find myself craving dishes that are both hearty and easy to make. That’s where this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup comes in!
It’s packed with bold flavors, loaded with protein, and has just the right amount of spice to warm you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken while keeping dinner simple yet delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cheese and tomato paste gives this soup a luscious, velvety texture.
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with chicken, beans, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal in itself.
- Bold Enchilada Flavors: The cumin, chili powder, and oregano give it that signature enchilada taste.
- Easy to Customize: You can add more heat, swap out ingredients, or make it vegetarian if needed.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well and tastes even better the next day!
Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans – Adds a hearty texture and plenty of protein.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans – Provides a creamy bite and rich flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the soup, bringing in a deep, savory taste.
- 2 cups shredded chicken – A great way to use up leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Gives the soup a rich, cheesy creaminess.
- 2 bay leaves – Infuses a subtle, earthy depth of flavor.
- 1 ½ cups kernel corn – Adds a touch of natural sweetness and crunch.
- ⅓ cup tomato paste – Brings richness and enhances the tomato flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a deep, aromatic base.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin – Provides a warm, smoky undertone.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – Gives the soup that classic enchilada kick.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Helps sauté the vegetables for extra depth.
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced – Adds a slight sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses a fragrant, garlicky aroma.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes – Brings in acidity and balance.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Complements the spices with a mild, earthy flavor.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced – Adds a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness.
- 1 medium carrot, diced – Contributes a hint of natural sweetness and texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Optional Add-Ons
- Jalapeños: For extra heat, chop and toss them in.
- Sour cream: A dollop for a creamy tang.
- Tortilla strips: For added crunch.
- Cilantro: A fresh garnish to brighten the flavors.
- Avocado slices: Adds a buttery texture and richness.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot: For cooking everything together.
- Wooden spoon: To stir and mix ingredients evenly.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate seasoning and ingredient amounts.
- Ladle: For easy serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, carrot, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
2. Add the Spices and Tomato Paste
Stir in the cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and deepen in flavor. Next, add the tomato paste and stir well, letting it coat the vegetables for a richer taste.
3. Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth to the pot. Drop in the bay leaves, give everything a good stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add the Chicken, Beans, and Corn
Toss in the shredded chicken, kidney beans, black beans, and corn. Stir well and let the soup continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts smoothly into the soup, creating a creamy, thick consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaves, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, avocado slices, tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro.
Best Paired With
- Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Tortilla chips: For a crunchy contrast.
- Mexican rice: To make it an even heartier meal.
- Guacamole and salsa: Adds freshness to the meal.
Storage and Serving
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt.
- Let the soup simmer to allow flavors to develop.
- Adjust seasoning to taste after adding cheese.
Substitutes and Variations
- Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for extra beans and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy version: Add extra chili powder or hot sauce.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese or coconut milk for creaminess.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbs | 48g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 12g |
What Others Are Saying About The Recipe
Gracie S.: “This is now my go-to comfort soup. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and super simple to make. I added tortilla strips for crunch—amazing!”
Jane B.: “I made this for my husband, who usually isn’t a soup fan, and he went back for seconds! The flavors are so deep, and the cheese makes it incredibly creamy.”
Mariz L.: “I added extra jalapeños for heat and topped it with avocado—absolutely delicious!”
Karl R.: “Perfect meal for cold nights. It’s hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. Will make again!”
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all ingredients except cheese and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in cheese before serving.
How can I make it thicker?
Blend a portion of the soup or add more cheese for extra creaminess.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack work great, too.
What can I use instead of beans?
You can replace them with extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a must-try if you love bold flavors and easy-to-make comfort food. It’s warm, creamy, and packed with protein, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option. Try it out and make it your own with your favorite toppings!