Introduction to Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
What is green chicken enchilada soup, and why should you try it?
If you haven’t yet experienced the deliciousness of green chicken enchilada soup, you’re in for a treat! This hearty dish beautifully combines the comforting qualities of traditional chicken enchiladas with the convenience of a soup. Imagine all those vibrant flavors—tender chicken, spicy green enchilada sauce, and fresh veggies—packaged in a warm, nourishing bowl. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and excitement!
So why should you give this recipe a shot? For starters, it's remarkably easy to make and budget-friendly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you’ll be savoring a flavorful meal in under an hour. Plus, the soup is versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings, like creamy avocado or zesty cilantro.
The nutritional benefits are also noteworthy. Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and vegetables, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night at home, this green chicken enchilada soup is sure to impress!
For more mouthwatering recipes inspired by these flavors, check out The Modern Proper’s guide to Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Essential ingredients you need
Creating a delicious green chicken enchilada soup starts with a solid selection of essential ingredients. Here's what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 (16-ounce) can green enchilada sauce
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
- 2 (15.5-ounce) cans great northern white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 small zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Optional toppings for extra flavor
Want to elevate your green chicken enchilada soup? Consider adding some flavor-packed toppings:
- Diced avocado for creaminess
- Chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness
- Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a cheesy finish
- A dollop of sour cream for richness
- Thinly sliced radish for a crunchy contrast
Feel free to mix and match these toppings to customize your soup experience! Adding your personal touch gives this dish its unique flair. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this guide on the best toppings for soups.
Preparing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Creating a warm and satisfying bowl of green chicken enchilada soup isn't just about following a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that transforms your kitchen into a hub of cozy aromas. Let’s dive into the easy steps to prepare this delicious dish!
Sauté the aromatics
To kick off this flavorful journey, let’s heat some extra-virgin olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it's time to add a chopped yellow onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. The key here is to allow those onions to work their magic—creating a sweet base for your soup. Next, toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until that irresistible fragrance fills the air. This aromatic starting point is essential for infusing your soup with flavor.
Combine the main ingredients
Once your aromatics are ready, it’s time to combine the heart and soul of your soup. Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock along with 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, and a can of diced green chiles. Don't forget the great northern white beans—these add not only protein but also a creamy texture that elevates the dish! After that, mix in the sliced zucchini and diced green bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Finally, season with ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. This heavy lifting of ingredient mixing ensures that every spoonful of your green chicken enchilada soup bursts with flavor.
Simmer the soup
Now that all the ingredients are in the pot, let’s turn up the heat! Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the temperature to medium-low, allowing it to gently simmer. Stir occasionally for about 30 minutes. This simmering not only helps meld the delightful flavors together but also softens the veggies, making them just right. Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen—it’s enough to make anyone eager to dig in!
Check for seasoning
After the soup has simmered to perfection, it’s time to get a little hands-on. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Maybe it needs a pinch more salt or a dash of cumin to suit your palate. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go; this is your chance to make the green chicken enchilada soup truly yours!
Serve up the deliciousness
With your soup ready, it’s time to serve up this delightful dish. Grab your favorite bowls and ladle in the soup, topping it with optional garnishes like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese if you desire. Whether you’re enjoying this for a weeknight dinner or serving it to friends, your green chicken enchilada soup is bound to be a hit!
So, why not gather your ingredients and begin your culinary adventure today? Your taste buds will thank you!
Variations on Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Add Some Heat
If you're looking to turn up the spice dial on your green chicken enchilada soup, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Fresh diced jalapeños can pack a punch and lend a fresh flavor, while a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can add depth and warmth. Remember, you can always start small; you can add more heat but can't take it out!
Make It Vegetarian
Craving a meatless option? Swap the shredded chicken for hearty ingredients like black beans or chickpeas. You can also add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Simply increase the veggie quotient with more zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn. For a creamy touch, stir in coconut milk or cashew cream, making your green chicken enchilada soup as rich and satisfying as its original form!
Curious for more variations? Discover how different toppings can elevate this dish! Consider simple garnishes like fresh cilantro or zesty lime. For additional cooking tips, visit Serious Eats or Bon Appétit.
Cooking Notes for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Tips for Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have everything on hand? No problem! Feel free to substitute shredded chicken with turkey or beef for a different twist. If you’re out of green enchilada sauce, homemade salsa verde works beautifully. For beans, black beans or kidney beans can add a unique flavor. Can't find zucchini? Chopped spinach or kale will also do the trick!
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any delicious green chicken enchilada soup left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Freeze portions for longer storage—just make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens up too much. Enjoy your easy and warming meal again!
Serving suggestions for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Ideal pairings for hearty meals
To make your green chicken enchilada soup even more satisfying, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread. A side of avocado salad with lime dressing adds a refreshing touch that complements the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled chicken or turkey bacon for added protein.
Creative serving ideas
Spice up your presentation by serving the soup in bread bowls, or topping it with crispy tortilla strips for texture. You can also create a soup bar with various toppings like diced avocados, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and sour cream, allowing guests or family members to customize their own bowls. This interactive touch not only elevates the dining experience but also makes it fun! Explore more hearty soup ideas at The Modern Proper.
Time Details for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Preparation Time
Getting ready to whip up this comforting green chicken enchilada soup takes just 15 minutes. It’s a quick, easy process that allows you to focus on the fun part—cooking!
Cooking Time
Once you've prepped your ingredients, enjoy 30 minutes of simmering time. This will ensure all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you'll have a hearty, flavorful soup that's perfect for any weeknight dinner. And trust us, it’s worth every minute!
Nutritional Information for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your meals can be enlightening, especially for a comforting dish like green chicken enchilada soup. Here’s a quick summary of what you can expect per serving:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 417 calories, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner without overindulging.
Protein
Packed with 25 grams of protein, this soup is a fantastic choice for replenishing your energy, especially after an active day.
Sodium
With a sodium count of 2,775 mg, it's wise to balance this meal with low-sodium options throughout your day.
For more information on nutrition and health, check out the USDA's Dietary Guidelines. Enjoy your delicious soup!
FAQs about Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It adds flavor and saves time, making your green chicken enchilada soup even easier to prepare. Simply shred the chicken and toss it right into the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also opt for a spicier green enchilada sauce or toss in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Each of these options will elevate your green chicken enchilada soup to the next level of spicy goodness.
What can I substitute for green enchilada sauce?
No green enchilada sauce on hand? Don’t worry! You can blend fresh tomatillos and green chilies with spices for a homemade version. Alternatively, use salsa verde or a combination of diced tomatoes and green chiles to achieve a similar flavor.
For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out The Kitchn for helpful advice!
Conclusion on Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
In summary, green chicken enchilada soup is a wonderfully versatile and quick meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Enjoying it hot with your favorite toppings transforms this dish into a delightful experience!
Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Equipment
- large stockpot
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 16-ounce can green enchilada sauce
- 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles
- 2 15.5-ounce cans great northern white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 small zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 small green bell peppers, diced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is glistening, add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 more minute.
- Add in the chicken stock, chicken, enchilada sauce, green chiles, beans, zucchini, bell peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper, increase the heat to high, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent and the zucchini is tender, about 30 minutes.
- Serve the soup in bowls topped with corn chips, and any additional toppings of your choice, as desired.
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