Green enchiladas chicken soup is a cozy bowl of comfort that warms not just the body but also the soul. Imagine diving into a rich, flavorful broth filled with tender chicken, vibrant green chilies, and a sprinkle of cheese that melts like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Each spoonful offers a delightful mix of textures and aromas that bring joy to your taste buds.
This dish isn’t just for the everyday dinner; it’s perfect for gatherings, lazy Sundays, or whenever you need a pick-me-up. I still remember the first time I made it — my kitchen smelled so good that even my cat was intrigued enough to abandon his napping spot. The anticipation of savoring this delightful creation kept me on my toes, and trust me, you’ll feel the same way!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This green enchiladas chicken soup is a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Its flavor profile bursts with zesty and savory notes, giving your taste buds a fiesta.
- The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching dish sure to impress guests.
- Plus, you can easily adapt it based on your preferences or ingredients on hand.
Ingredients for green enchiladas chicken soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.
- Canned Green Chilies: These add that signature heat; choose mild or hot depending on your spice preference.
- Fresh Cilantro: A handful of chopped cilantro brightens the flavors and adds freshness.
- Shredded Cheese: Opt for Monterey Jack or cheddar for creamy goodness when topping off your soup.
For the Seasoning:
- Cumin: This spice brings warmth and depth; don’t skip it!
- Garlic Powder: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor boost without the chopping hassle.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make green enchiladas chicken soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts in a large pot. Pour in about four cups of chicken broth until they are submerged. Bring it all to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Use this time wisely — maybe dance around your kitchen or grab that snack you’ve been eyeing!
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
After cooking, remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands if you’re feeling adventurous.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Return shredded chicken to the pot along with canned green chilies, cumin, garlic powder, and any additional spices you fancy. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer again for another five minutes so those flavors can mingle.
Step 5: Incorporate Freshness
Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro for that fresh kick! It’s like adding sunshine right into your soup.
Step 6: Serve Up
Ladle your delicious green enchiladas chicken soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheese and an extra sprinkle of cilantro if you’re feeling fancy. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra broth for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy this bowl of warmth as you dive into its layers of flavor; it’s like a hug from an old friend!
You Must Know
- This delightful green enchiladas chicken soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- You can easily adapt the ingredients based on what’s lurking in your fridge.
- The vibrant flavors and aromas will make your kitchen smell like a fiesta, perfect for any occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Next, sear the chicken until golden brown, then simmer everything together with broth and green enchilada sauce for maximum flavor infusion. Finally, stir in fresh cilantro before serving to brighten up the dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shredded beef or even beans for a vegetarian option. Spice it up with jalapeños or add cream cheese for an extra creamy texture. Don’t forget to garnish with avocado or crispy tortilla strips for that perfect crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover green enchiladas chicken soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it from thickening too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh herbs when possible; they elevate flavors dramatically.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it before serving.
- Use low-sodium broth for more control over seasoning.
Sometimes, I whip up this green enchiladas chicken soup when family visits. The smiles around the table say it all—there’s something magical about sharing warm bowls of comfort food with loved ones! For more inspiration, check out this cozy cabbage soup recipe.
FAQs:
What are the main ingredients in green enchiladas chicken soup?
Green enchiladas chicken soup features simple yet flavorful ingredients. The primary components include shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and various vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and corn. creamy chicken noodle casserole You can also add black beans for extra protein. creamy marry me chicken meatballs Fresh cilantro and lime juice enhance the flavor, while cheese adds a creamy texture. This combination creates a delicious soup that is both hearty and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare green enchiladas chicken soup?
Preparing green enchiladas chicken soup typically takes about 30 minutes. If you have pre-cooked chicken, the process is even quicker. Start by sautéing your vegetables, then combine them with the broth and enchilada sauce. Simmer everything together for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This quick cooking time makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Can I make green enchiladas chicken soup in advance?
Yes, you can make green enchiladas chicken soup in advance! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again. If you’re planning to freeze it, consider omitting any garnishes like cilantro or cheese before storing. This way, you can add fresh toppings when serving.
What are some variations of green enchiladas chicken soup?
There are many delicious variations of green enchiladas chicken soup! You can customize it by adding different proteins such as shrimp or turkey instead of chicken. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with beans and extra veggies. Additionally, try adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a flavor boost. Each variation allows you to create a unique dish that suits your taste preferences.
Conclusion for green enchiladas chicken soup:
In summary, green enchiladas chicken soup is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant ingredients such as green enchilada sauce and vegetables. It’s easy to prepare in about 30 minutes and offers versatility through various ingredient swaps. quick vegetable stir fry Whether enjoyed fresh or made ahead for later consumption, this comforting soup will surely delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger on any occasion.
Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Green enchiladas chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth infused with green chilies, aromatic spices, and fresh cilantro, topped off with creamy cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, each bowl is a warm hug that will delight your taste buds and lift your spirits.
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 breasts)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) canned green chilies
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- In a large pot, place the chicken breasts and pour in the chicken broth until submerged. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces after cooling slightly.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot along with green chilies, cumin, garlic powder, and any extra spices you desire. Simmer for an additional five minutes.
- Stir in chopped cilantro before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and top each serving with shredded cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For added richness, sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the pot. - Substitute chicken with beans for a vegetarian option or use shrimp for a seafood twist. - Garnish with avocado slices or crispy tortilla strips for extra texture.
