Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

You’ll love this Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This creamy soup features tender chicken, melty cheese, and zesty green enchilada sauce, making it both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to whip up using your slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of green enchilada sauce and salsa verde provides a deliciously zesty twist.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Make it in a slow cooker, on the stovetop, or in an Instant Pot—whichever suits your schedule!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings per recipe, this soup is ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of cream and cheese creates a rich and velvety soup that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and efficient, gather these essential tools. They will help you create the perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Instant Pot
• Large pot (if using stovetop)
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Instant Pot: Cooks the soup quickly under pressure while still delivering incredible flavor.
• Large Pot: Great for preparing larger batches on the stovetop; ensures even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Soup

• 2.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 recipe green enchilada sauce (or a 28-ounce can store-bought sauce)
• 24 ounces chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded monterey jack cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed and softened – warm in the microwave if needed)
• 4 ounces green salsa (salsa verde)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure that your chicken is thawed if frozen.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Your Cooking Vessel

For slow cooker:
1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom.
2. Pour in the green enchilada sauce and chicken broth.
3. Add half and half (or heavy cream), cream cheese, salsa verde, salt, and pepper.

For stovetop:
1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine all ingredients as described above.
2. Stir well to mix everything together.

For Instant Pot:
1. Add all ingredients in the order listed above.
2. Secure lid properly.

Step 3: Cook

For slow cooker:
– Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is cooked through.

For stovetop:
– Bring to a boil then reduce heat; simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is tender.

For Instant Pot:
– Close the lid and set to manual pressure for 15 minutes. Allow natural release when done.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After cooking, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the pot (for slow cooker/stovetop). If using an Instant Pot, remove chicken before shredding then return it to the pot.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with additional cheese or toppings of choice if desired. Enjoy your creamy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

This creamy and cheesy green chicken enchilada soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or as a cozy lunch, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado: Add diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick.

Serve with Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add texture and crunch.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream makes the soup extra creamy.
• Shredded Lettuce: Add shredded lettuce for freshness and color.

Pair with Bread

• Cornbread: Enjoy warm cornbread on the side to soak up the soup.
• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the broth.

How to Perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

To make your green chicken enchilada soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bowl is packed with flavor and creaminess.

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture.
• Homemade Enchilada Sauce: Making your own green enchilada sauce can enhance the taste significantly.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more cream cheese.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

Pairing side dishes with your green chicken enchilada soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the soup.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables add a smoky taste that enhances the overall dish.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is perfect alongside the soup for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This sweet corn dish adds sweetness and crunch, balancing the savory soup.
5. Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese make a delightful accompaniment.
6. Refried Beans: Rich refried beans provide protein and create a hearty meal when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Green Chicken Enchilada Soup can be a delight, but there are a few common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Using the wrong chicken cut – Opting for chicken thighs instead of breasts or vice versa can change the texture. Stick with your preferred cut for consistent results.
• Not seasoning adequately – Failing to season the soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Skipping the cream cheese – Cream cheese adds a creamy texture that enhances the soup. Don’t skip this ingredient; it’s key for that rich flavor!
• Overcooking the chicken – If you cook the chicken too long, it may become dry. Check for doneness and shred it as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Ignoring simmer time – Rushing the simmering process can affect infusion of flavors. Allow time for all ingredients to meld together for a tastier soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Green Chicken Enchilada Soup.

How can I make this Green Chicken Enchilada Soup spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is an excellent way to save time while still enjoying great flavor.

What if I don’t have green enchilada sauce?

You can easily make your own using tomatillos, green chilies, garlic, and spices blended together.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Green Chicken Enchilada Soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep for busy weeks.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute shredded vegetables or beans instead of chicken, and use vegetable broth along with plant-based cream options.

Final Thoughts

This Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy! is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips. Enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger meal; either way, it’s sure to be a hit!