Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

You’ll love this creamy, cheesy green chicken enchilada soup! Made with green enchilada sauce, salsa verde, melty cheese, and tender shredded chicken, it’s easy to make in your slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot—perfect for busy nights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready to cook while you go about your day.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer a slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot, this recipe fits your cooking style.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of melted cheese and creamy ingredients creates a comforting soup that warms the soul.
• Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Serving 12 people makes it ideal for gatherings or family dinners without much hassle.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from cheese, this soup is satisfying yet nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful green chicken enchilada soup, you will need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything is done right.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Pot (for stovetop method)
• Instant Pot
• Measuring Cups
• Mixing Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it while the flavors meld together over hours.
• Instant Pot: Cuts down on cooking time significantly; enjoy the same great flavors in a fraction of the time.
• Large Pot: Ideal for those who prefer traditional stovetop methods; allows for easy stirring and monitoring as it cooks.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

For the Base

• 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

For the Creaminess

• 2 cups shredded monterey jack cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed and softened – warm in the microwave if needed)

For Flavoring

• 4 ounces green salsa (salsa verde)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This includes measuring out the chicken broth, cheeses, and preparing any sauces you are using.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Your Chosen Cooking Method

• For Slow Cooker:

  1. Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Add the green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, half and half, cream cheese, salsa verde, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

• For Instant Pot:

  1. Add all ingredients directly into the pot.
  2. Close the lid securely and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.

• For Stovetop:

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine all ingredients as listed above.
  2. Bring to a simmer while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook Until Done

• Slow Cooker: Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is fully cooked.
• Instant Pot: Allow natural release after cooking for best results before shredding the chicken.
• Stovetop: Let simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Serve

After cooking:
1. Remove the chicken from the pot/slow cooker/Instant Pot.
2. Shred with two forks or chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Return the shredded chicken back into your soup base; stir well.

Now your delicious Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy! is ready to serve! Enjoy hot with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro or avocado slices!

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

Serving green chicken enchilada soup can elevate your dining experience. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these ideas will make your meal memorable.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds freshness and a burst of flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Provides creaminess that balances the spice.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors beautifully.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Strips: Crispy strips add a delightful crunch.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s texture.
• Jalapeño Slices: For those who love an extra kick!

Serve in Style

• Bread Bowls: Serving in edible bowls adds fun and flair to your meal.
• Individual Bowls: Presenting each serving in individual bowls makes it more personal.

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

Perfecting your green chicken enchilada soup is easy with just a few tips. Use these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold flavors matter: Using fresh ingredients like homemade green enchilada sauce can boost the taste significantly.
• Choose the right cheese: Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but adding cheddar can enhance the cheesy flavor profile.
• Adjust thickness as needed: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more cream cheese.
• Experiment with spices: Adding cumin or chili powder can deepen the soup’s flavor.

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

Pairing sides with your green chicken enchilada soup enhances your meal. Here are some perfect options that complement its creamy goodness.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and moist, cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious broth.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro adds a refreshing touch to your plate.
3. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness alongside the soup.
4. Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh veggies offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
5. Guacamole: This smooth dip provides healthy fats and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Stuffed with cheese and herbs, quesadillas are great for dipping into your flavorful soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Green Chicken Enchilada Soup, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender results. Avoid using tough cuts that won’t shred well.
• Overcooking the soup: Slow cooking can lead to mushy ingredients. Keep an eye on cooking times and adjust based on your method—especially in the Instant Pot.
• Skipping seasoning: Lack of salt and pepper can make the soup bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for maximum flavor.
• Neglecting to blend well: Inadequate mixing of cream cheese can create lumps. Ensure it is softened and whisked in thoroughly for a smooth texture.
• Not storing properly: Improper storage can affect freshness. Use airtight containers and ensure the soup cools before refrigerating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave a little space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Green Chicken Enchilada Soup.

How can I make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup spicier?

You can add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the spice level according to your taste preference.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken saves time. Simply shred it and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with plant-based proteins like chickpeas or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What toppings go well with Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Top with avocado slices, cilantro, tortilla strips, or sour cream for added flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

This Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! It’s perfect for busy nights or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!