If you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal that practically cooks itself, you’re in the right place. My Savory Chicken Enchilada Soup made in a slow cooker is the perfect dish for busy nights. Packed with flavor and easy to prep, it’s sure to please the whole family. Get ready to dive into a comforting bowl of deliciousness with simple steps, fresh ingredients, and handy tips to customize it just for you!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
To make a delicious chicken enchilada soup, gather these key items:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
These ingredients create a hearty base for the soup. Chicken breasts add protein, while beans and corn give texture. The spices and sauces bring depth and flavor.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
Consider these optional items to enhance your soup:
– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
Adding diced green chiles gives more heat, while lime juice brightens the flavors. Garlic and onion powder can boost taste if you want more garlic or onion flavor without extra chopping.
Suggested Toppings and Garnishes
Toppings make your soup fun and special. Try these:
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges
– Extra shredded cheddar cheese
– Avocado slices
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt
– Tortilla chips
These toppings add color and texture. Cilantro and lime give freshness. Cheese and sour cream add creaminess, while chips offer a crunchy bite. Each topping allows for personal touches and makes each bowl unique.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps the chicken cook well and stay juicy. Next, chop the onion and mince the garlic. You can use a knife or a food processor for this. Add the diced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Layer in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Then, pour in the enchilada sauce, which adds great flavor. Sprinkle the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on top. This spice mix gives the soup its tasty kick!
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time makes the flavors blend well. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
Final Steps: Shredding Chicken and Adding Cream
Once the cooking time is up, carefully take out the chicken breasts. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the soup. Now, add the heavy cream or coconut milk and the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together and let it cook for 15 to 30 more minutes. This makes the soup creamy and rich.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and extra cheese. The lime wedge on the side adds a fresh zing! Enjoy your savory chicken enchilada soup.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Slow Cooking
To get the best flavor, layer your ingredients well. Start with chicken at the bottom. Follow with your beans, corn, and tomatoes. This order helps the chicken cook evenly. Use fresh garlic and onion for a punch of flavor. It’s key to chop them small. Make sure to stir the soup halfway through cooking. This helps mix the spices and flavors.
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can switch out the chicken for beef or turkey if you like. If you want to make it lighter, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for extra beans or lentils. If you’re low on chicken broth, water works too, but the broth adds more flavor. You can also use different beans, like pinto or kidney beans, based on what you have.
Making It Dairy-Free or Vegan
To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Coconut milk gives a nice creaminess and a hint of sweetness. For cheese, try a vegan cheese that melts well. There are many brands available now. You can also skip the cheese altogether and add avocado for creaminess. This makes the soup rich and tasty without dairy.

Variations
Spicy Chicken Enchilada Soup
If you like heat, add more spices. Try using a spicy enchilada sauce. You can also add chopped jalapeños. A teaspoon of cayenne pepper gives an extra kick. Adjust the spice level based on your taste. This soup can warm you up on cold days!
Vegetarian Enchilada Soup
To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. Replace it with two cans of beans. Black beans and pinto beans work well. You can add more corn and diced bell peppers for flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This option is tasty and satisfying!
Adding Extra Veggies
Feel free to add more veggies to the soup. Chopped zucchini or bell peppers add great texture. You can also toss in some spinach or kale for nutrients. Carrots can add a hint of sweetness. Mix and match your favorites to make it your own!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your chicken enchilada soup, let it cool first. Once cool, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it!
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy leftovers, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium heat. Stir it often to ensure even heating. You can also use the microwave. Just place the soup in a bowl and cover it. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway through. Check the soup to make sure it is hot throughout. If it is not hot enough, heat it a bit longer.
Freezing the Soup for Later
Freezing is a great option for longer storage. To freeze, let the soup cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space for expansion as the soup freezes. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze the soup for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Heat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve. Enjoy your tasty meal again!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add the frozen chicken breasts to the slow cooker. Increase the cooking time to 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. This helps the chicken cook fully and stay juicy.
What can I serve with Chicken Enchilada Soup?
You can serve the soup with many tasty sides. Here are some ideas:
– Tortilla chips for dipping
– Warm tortillas for wrapping
– A fresh salad for crunch
– Avocado slices for creaminess
These sides add more flavor and texture to your meal.
How do I adjust the spiciness of the soup?
To change the spice level, you can:
– Add more chili powder for heat.
– Use spicier enchilada sauce.
– Include jalapeños or hot sauce.
– Reduce the spice by using less chili powder or mild sauce.
Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead?
Yes, you can! To cook on the stovetop:
1. Sauté the onion and garlic in a pot.
2. Add the chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and enchilada sauce.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and spices.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
5. Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, and stir in cream and cheese.
This method cooks faster but still tastes great!
This article covered all you need for Chicken Enchilada Soup. We listed key ingredients, tips for the best flavor, and how to cook it right. You learned about variations to fit your taste and how to store leftovers.
I hope you feel ready to make this soup for yourself. Enjoy it anytime, and don’t hesitate to try new twists on the recipe! Your kitchen adventure awaits.


