Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is about to become your new favorite cozy meal. Ever crave something creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor—but without spending hours in the kitchen? This soup delivers all the comforting goodness of classic enchiladas in one easy, spoonable dish. Plus, it’s a total win for busy nights!
First, let’s talk about how simple this recipe is. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a rich, satisfying soup ready in no time. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in extra protein while keeping things light and wholesome. In addition, the flavors are perfectly balanced—warm, slightly spicy, and ultra-satisfying.
But the best part? You can customize it to fit your cravings. Want it spicier? Add more heat. Need a dairy-free version? No problem! This soup is as flexible as it is delicious.
So, grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to whip up something amazing. Keep reading—you won’t want to miss the easy steps to making this irresistible dish!
The Best Green Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe
Simple Ingredients for Big Flavor
The magic of Green Chicken Enchilada Soup starts with simple, flavorful ingredients. First, you’ll need shredded chicken, which makes this soup both hearty and filling. Next, grab a jar of green enchilada sauce. It brings the zesty, slightly spicy kick that makes this dish irresistible. To make it creamy, use a mix of chicken broth and a little cream cheese or sour cream. In addition, diced green chiles add extra depth to the flavor. Don’t forget the seasonings—garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt make everything come together beautifully. You can also toss in some beans or corn for added texture. Finally, top it all off with melty cheese and fresh cilantro. This soup is packed with bold flavors but comes together effortlessly. Once you try it, you’ll see how easy and delicious homemade soups can be.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shredded Chicken | Adds protein and heartiness |
| Green Enchilada Sauce | Provides tangy, zesty flavor |
| Chicken Broth | Forms the soup base |
| Cream Cheese/Sour Cream | Creates a creamy texture |
| Diced Green Chiles | Adds a mild heat |
| Garlic, Cumin, Salt | Enhances overall taste |
| Cheese | Melts for extra richness |
| Corn/Beans (Optional) | Adds texture and variety |
| Fresh Cilantro | Brightens the flavors |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a breeze, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen. First, start by cooking your chicken if it’s not already shredded. You can use rotisserie chicken to make things even easier. Next, sauté some garlic in a pot until it smells amazing. Then, pour in your green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and diced green chiles. Let it simmer so the flavors blend beautifully. After that, stir in the cream cheese or sour cream until it melts smoothly into the broth. Now, add your shredded chicken and let everything cook together for a few more minutes. In the last step, sprinkle in your favorite shredded cheese, stirring until it’s creamy and delicious. Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or crunchy tortilla strips. And just like that, your flavorful, comforting soup is ready to enjoy!
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cook or shred chicken |
| 2 | Sauté garlic in a pot |
| 3 | Add enchilada sauce, broth, and green chiles |
| 4 | Stir in cream cheese or sour cream |
| 5 | Add shredded chicken and simmer |
| 6 | Sprinkle in shredded cheese |
| 7 | Serve with fresh toppings |
Why You’ll Love This Hearty and Comforting Soup
A Perfect Blend of Creamy and Zesty
This soup strikes the perfect balance between creamy and zesty flavors. The green enchilada sauce brings a tangy, slightly spicy kick, while the cream cheese makes it rich and velvety. Each spoonful is bursting with warmth and comfort. In addition, the shredded chicken adds heartiness, making this soup filling enough for a full meal. The combination of flavors works so well that you won’t even need a side dish. Also, the seasonings blend effortlessly, giving you a dish that feels like it took hours to make, even though it comes together quickly. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and satisfying, especially on a chilly day. If you love bold flavors with a creamy finish, this soup will quickly become one of your favorites. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.
| Flavor Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Creamy | Rich from cheese and sour cream |
| Zesty | Tangy from green enchilada sauce |
| Savory | Bold spices and garlic |
| Hearty | Filling with chicken and broth |
Ideal for Busy Weeknights or Meal Prep
Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is the ultimate easy meal for busy nights. First, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, which means less time in the kitchen. Plus, most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so you probably already have everything you need. In addition, it’s great for meal prep because it tastes even better the next day. Just make a big batch, store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to eat. You can also freeze portions for a quick, stress-free meal later. Another bonus? It’s a one-pot dish, so cleanup is a breeze! Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping meals ahead of time, this soup makes life so much easier. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor—all without a ton of effort. If you need a go-to recipe that’s fast, simple, and absolutely delicious, this one is for you.
| Benefit | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Quick | Ready in 30 minutes |
| One-Pot | Easy cleanup |
| Pantry Staples | Uses common ingredients |
| Freezer-Friendly | Stores well for later |
Easy Ways to Customize Your Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Spicy, Mild, or Extra Cheesy – Your Choice
One of the best things about Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is how easy it is to make it your own. If you love spice, add an extra can of diced green chiles or toss in some jalapeños. Want a milder version? Use a mild enchilada sauce and skip the extra heat. Also, cheese lovers can go all out by adding extra shredded cheese or even a sprinkle of cotija for a little salty bite. If you like a thicker soup, stir in some mashed beans or let it simmer longer. In addition, you can play with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. No matter how you tweak it, this soup will still be bursting with flavor. The beauty of this recipe is that you can adjust it to fit exactly what you love.
| Preference | Customization Ideas |
|---|---|
| Spicy | Add jalapeños, extra green chiles, or hot sauce |
| Mild | Use mild enchilada sauce, skip spicy toppings |
| Extra Cheesy | Double the cheese, add cotija or Monterey Jack |
| Thicker Soup | Stir in mashed beans or let simmer longer |
Toppings and Sides to Elevate Your Bowl
Toppings can take your Green Chicken Enchilada Soup from great to amazing. First, crispy tortilla strips add the perfect crunch. Next, sliced avocado gives it a creamy, buttery touch. In addition, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro brings out the brightness of the flavors. If you like a little tang, a squeeze of fresh lime juice does wonders. For even more fun, add sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Also, if you’re serving this as a meal, consider pairing it with warm cornbread or a cheesy quesadilla on the side. No matter how you serve it, these little extras take every bite to the next level. With the right toppings and sides, your bowl of soup becomes a full, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
| Topping | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Tortilla Strips | Adds crunch and texture |
| Avocado Slices | Provides creamy contrast |
| Fresh Cilantro | Enhances fresh flavors |
| Lime Juice | Adds a zesty balance |
| Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt | Boosts creaminess |
| Cornbread | Perfect for dipping |
| Cheese Quesadilla | Makes it a complete meal |
Healthy Twists on Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Lighter Ingredients Without Sacrificing Flavor
Want a healthier version of Green Chicken Enchilada Soup? No problem! First, swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a light sour cream. It still adds creaminess but cuts back on extra fat. Also, using shredded chicken breast instead of dark meat keeps it lean while still tasty. In addition, you can replace full-fat cheese with a reduced-fat option. If you want to add more fiber, toss in black beans or extra veggies like spinach or zucchini. Another trick is using a low-sodium chicken broth to keep the salt level in check. Even with these lighter swaps, the soup stays just as flavorful and satisfying. Eating healthy doesn’t mean giving up on comfort food! This version is just as creamy and delicious, but with fewer calories.
| Swap This | Instead Try |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | Greek yogurt or light sour cream |
| Dark Meat Chicken | Shredded chicken breast |
| Full-Fat Cheese | Reduced-fat cheese |
| Regular Broth | Low-sodium broth |
| No Veggies | Add spinach, zucchini, or black beans |
Keto, Gluten-Free, and Dairy-Free Options
If you’re following a special diet, you can still enjoy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup. For a keto-friendly version, skip the beans and use full-fat cheese and sour cream. Also, adding avocado boosts the healthy fats while keeping it low in carbs. Need a gluten-free option? Just double-check that your enchilada sauce and broth are gluten-free, and you’re all set. In addition, for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream cheese and swap regular cheese for a dairy-free alternative. These simple swaps make the soup fit your needs without losing any of its amazing flavor.
| Diet Type | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Keto | Skip beans, use full-fat dairy, add avocado |
| Gluten-Free | Ensure enchilada sauce and broth are GF |
| Dairy-Free | Use coconut milk, dairy-free cheese |
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating for Maximum Freshness
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, storing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is simple. First, let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Then, place it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to four days. Also, for the best texture, stir well before reheating. The flavors actually get better over time, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even more delicious the next day! If you plan to eat it throughout the week, divide it into smaller portions for quick meals.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
| Airtight Container | Best for freshness |
How to Reheat for That Just-Made Taste
Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is easy. First, if it’s refrigerated, warm it over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. In addition, if it seems too thick, add a little broth to loosen it up. For frozen soup, thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat as usual. With these simple steps, your soup will taste just as fresh and flavorful as the day you made it!
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Stovetop | Heat on medium, stir occasionally |
| Microwave | Heat in 30-second bursts, stir between |
| Frozen | Thaw overnight, then reheat |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Cheese makes everything better, and Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is no exception! Monterey Jack is a great choice because it melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor. If you love a little spice, try Pepper Jack for extra kick. Cheddar also works well, adding a sharper, bolder taste. For a more authentic touch, use cotija or queso fresco. They don’t melt as smoothly, but they add a delicious salty bite. Want extra creaminess? Stir in some cream cheese or a little Mexican crema. No matter what cheese you pick, your soup will turn out rich and delicious!
Toppings take Green Chicken Enchilada Soup to the next level! Crunchy tortilla strips add the perfect crisp texture. Fresh avocado slices bring a creamy, buttery balance. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds brightness and a fresh pop of flavor. Love a little tang? A squeeze of lime juice makes every bite even better. For extra richness, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Want more spice? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Cheese lovers can sprinkle on more shredded cheese. The best part? You can mix and match for your perfect bowl!
Turning leftover enchiladas into Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is pure genius! First, chop the enchiladas into bite-sized pieces. Then, add them to a pot with some chicken broth. The tortillas will break down, thickening the soup naturally. Next, stir in extra enchilada sauce for more flavor. If you want a creamy touch, add sour cream or cream cheese. Shredded cheese makes it even richer! In just a few minutes, your leftovers transform into a warm, comforting soup. It’s like getting two delicious meals in one. Plus, no food goes to waste—total win!
Both soups are packed with flavor, but they have key differences. Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is creamy, thanks to sour cream, cheese, or cream cheese. It also uses green enchilada sauce for a tangy kick. Chicken tortilla soup, on the other hand, has a broth-based, tomato-heavy base with more of a smoky flavor. It’s lighter and usually topped with crispy tortilla strips. Enchilada soup feels richer and heartier, while tortilla soup has a fresh, zesty taste. Both are amazing, but if you love creamy comfort food, enchilada soup is the way to go!
Ready to Savor This Cozy, Flavor-Packed Soup?
Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is the ultimate comfort meal. It’s creamy, zesty, and packed with bold flavors. Plus, it’s so easy to make! Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly day, this soup has you covered. First, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Next, it’s totally flexible—you can spice it up, make it cheesier, or even keep it light. In addition, leftovers taste even better the next day. So, grab your favorite toppings, ladle up a bowl, and enjoy every delicious bite. Once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!
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Green Chicken Enchilada Soup: A Creamy, Flavorful Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 4 bowls of soup 1x
Description
Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is the perfect cozy meal—rich, creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor! Inspired by classic enchiladas, this soup delivers all the comforting goodness you love in an easy, spoonable dish. Made with shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, cream cheese, and warm spices, it comes together effortlessly in just one pot. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly dish, this soup is a guaranteed winner. Customize the spice level, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a bowl of comfort in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or pre-cooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can green enchilada sauce
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Cheddar)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
Toppings (Optional, but Recommended)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced avocado
- Crunchy tortilla strips
- Shredded cheese
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced jalapeños (for extra spice)
Instructions
Sauté the garlic – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the broth and sauces – Pour in the chicken broth, green enchilada sauce, and diced green chiles. Stir to combine.
Melt the cream cheese – Add the softened cream cheese and stir until fully melted and incorporated.
Season the soup – Stir in cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Add the chicken and mix-ins – Stir in the shredded chicken, corn, and black beans (if using). Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Melt the cheese – Stir in the shredded cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Finish with sour cream – Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess.
Serve and top – Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings like tortilla strips, avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.
Notes
Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Dairy-free option: Swap cream cheese and sour cream for full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Low-carb/keto-friendly: Skip the corn and beans and add extra chicken for more protein.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
This Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor—perfect for busy nights or meal prepping ahead of time. Enjoy a warm bowl and customize it just how you like! 🍲✨
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Protein: ~28g