Name: Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 1 small red bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; 4 cups chicken broth (950 ml); 10 oz red enchilada sauce (300 ml), canned; 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes (430 g), canned; 4 oz diced green chiles (118 g), canned; 15 oz black beans (450 g), canned, drained and rinsed; 1½ cups frozen or canned corn, drained; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well); 4 oz cream cheese (118 g), softened and cubed; 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml) or half-and-half; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese; Chopped cilantro; Sliced avocado; Sour cream; Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips; Lime wedges; Canned or fresh jalapeños or chilies

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 7 reviews

If you’re searching for a soul-warming dish that effortlessly combines bold flavors with silky texture, this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender shredded chicken, smoky spices, and cheesy creaminess all mingling in a bowl, delivering a comforting hug of southwestern goodness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup brings vibrant color, rich taste, and that perfect balance of comforting and exciting to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a large white pot on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, there are two layers: the bottom layer is a mix of diced red bell peppers and chopped onions with spices, stirred with a wooden spoon; the second image shows a clear broth being poured into the pot, covering the red pepper, onion, and spice mixture. Around the pot, there are lime halves and some green herbs on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this soup comes straight from its simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the savory spices that create depth to the creamy cheeses that lend luscious texture, every element is essential for the perfect bowl.

Olive oil: The base for sautéing, bringing a gentle fruitiness and helping to release the flavors of the aromatics.
Small onion (diced): Adds a sweet and savory backbone that softens beautifully with cooking.
Small red bell pepper (diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and vibrant color for a fresh touch.
Garlic cloves (minced): Injects that signature punch of flavor that wakes up the palate.
Ground cumin: A smoky earthiness that forms the heart of the southwestern spice mix.
Chili powder: Adds essential warmth and depth without overpowering.
Smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky note that enhances the complexity of the broth.
Dried oregano: Offers a hint of herbal brightness that balances the rich ingredients.
Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation of the soup, perfect for melding all ingredients.
Red enchilada sauce (canned): Brings layers of chili flavor and a silky spice to the mix.
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes (canned): Add a hint of char and acidity to brighten the dish.
Diced green chiles (canned): Contribute a mild heat and green peppery notes.
Black beans (canned, drained and rinsed): Add protein and a hearty texture to the soup.
Frozen or canned corn (drained): Sweet bursts of corn bring a pop of texture and natural sweetness.
Cooked shredded chicken: The star protein, soaking up all the flavors for a satisfying meal.
Cream cheese (softened and cubed): Makes the soup irresistibly creamy and smooth.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: Further enriches the soup’s silky texture.
Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, topping off the flavor profile.
Chopped cilantro: A fresh herbaceous accent to finish the soup.
Sliced avocado: Adds buttery creaminess and a cool contrast.
Sour cream: Brings tanginess and a velvety finish when dolloped on top.
Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips: Provide satisfying crunch and texture.
Lime wedges: For an optional zesty squeeze that lifts all the flavors.
Canned or fresh jalapeños or chilies: Great for those who enjoy a little extra spice kick.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook these until they’re tender and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic along with the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir everything for 30 seconds more, allowing the spices to bloom and deepen the flavor base of the soup.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, red enchilada sauce, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and diced green chiles. Give it a good stir to combine all these hearty ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step infuses the broth with those beautiful smoky, tangy, and spicy notes that you crave in every spoonful.

Step 3: Add Beans, Corn, and Chicken

Now, stir in the black beans, corn, and cooked shredded chicken. This is where this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe really starts to come alive, combining protein, fiber, and texture for a bowl that’s as filling as it is flavorful. Let the soup gently simmer for 10 minutes so all the ingredients have a chance to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Stir in Creaminess

Lower the heat to its minimum and add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese fully melts, making the soup irresistibly creamy. Next, add the shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, stirring steadily to ensure the cheese melts into a smooth, luscious finish that ties everything together.

Step 5: Final Taste and Serve

Finish by tasting the soup, adjusting salt and pepper to your liking. This final step guarantees that your creation is perfectly seasoned. Serve the soup hot and get ready for that ultimate warm, comforting experience with bold southwestern flair.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

A white bowl is filled with creamy orange soup layered with shredded white chicken pieces, black beans, chopped yellow corn, and diced red tomatoes, all floating in the rich broth. On top, there are several slices of bright green avocado neatly arranged in one corner along with two lime wedges on the side of the bowl. Small green herbs are scattered on the surface, adding a fresh touch. The bowl sits on a rustic wooden board with a lime wedge placed next to it, and there is a white bowl with lime slices in the blurred background, all on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you make this dish truly your own. Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal burst. Add diced avocado for creamy contrast and dollops of sour cream to brighten the flavors with tang. Don’t forget the tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch that complements the silky soup. For those who love heat, fresh or canned jalapeños can take the spice level up a notch.

Side Dishes

This soup shines magnificently on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your meal. Serve alongside warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette can add a refreshing counterbalance. These extra touches round out your meal without overshadowing the creamy star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or just make mealtime extra special? Serve the Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe in colorful bowls that highlight the vibrant reds and yellows of the soup. Layer garnishes beautifully for visual pop. You can also offer an array of toppings on the side, letting everyone personalize their bowl, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen even more overnight, making reheated portions taste just as wonderful as fresh. Just be sure to stir well when warming so the creaminess stays smooth and luscious.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, which is great for meal prep. Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Keep in mind, sometimes cream-based soups can slightly separate when frozen, so a good whisk while reheating helps restore that perfect texture.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently over medium-low heat on the stove to avoid curdling. Stir frequently until warmed through and creamy. If the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it to the desired consistency. Your bowl of comforting Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe will be ready in no time.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds wonderful flavor and saves time. Just shred it and toss it in when the recipe calls for cooked chicken.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add extra beans or diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to keep it hearty.

What if I don’t have cream cheese? Can I substitute it?

Cream cheese is key for that rich, creamy texture, but you can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt in a pinch. Add it off heat to prevent curdling, and expect a slightly different texture and tang.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Definitely. Increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh diced jalapeños and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Just be sure to adjust gradually so the heat level suits your taste.

How thick should the soup be?

This soup should have a creamy, slightly thick consistency—not too watery, but still spoonable. If it gets too thick, simply stir in additional broth or cream until you reach that perfect cozy bowl.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe is truly a delicious embrace in a bowl—not just comfort food but a vibrant celebration of flavor and texture that you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Give it a try, gather your ingredients, and dive into this easy, satisfying meal that feels special every time. I promise it’s a soup that warms the heart and delights the soul.