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 only 10 minutes of prep time, this soup fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of green enchilada sauce and salsa verde delivers a burst of flavor that will satisfy any palate.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Make this soup using a slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot—choose the method that works best for you!
• Cheesy Goodness: Creamy ingredients like cream cheese and Monterey Jack cheese create a rich texture that you’ll crave.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe serves 12, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Stovetop pot
• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for set-it-and-forget-it convenience, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Instant Pot: Great for quick cooking while still achieving tender chicken and rich flavors in less time than traditional methods.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients like cream cheese before adding them to the soup.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

• 2.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 24 ounces chicken broth

For the Creamy Mixture

• 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed and softened – warm in the microwave if needed)

For Flavor and Texture

• 1 recipe green enchilada sauce (or a 28-ounce can store-bought sauce)
• 4 ounces green salsa (salsa verde)
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs into your slow cooker or Instant Pot. If you’re using a stovetop pot, heat it over medium-high heat before adding the chicken.

Step 2: Add Broth and Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth along with the green enchilada sauce. Ensure that all chicken pieces are submerged in the liquid.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mixture according to your preference. Stir gently to combine.

Step 4: Cook Your Soup

• For a slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.
• For an Instant Pot: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow natural release for 10 minutes before opening.
• For stovetop: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the soup.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Stir in cream cheese, half-and-half or heavy cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and salsa verde. Mix well until everything is melted together nicely.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Ladle your delicious green chicken enchilada soup into bowls. Enjoy with tortilla chips or fresh cilantro on top if desired!

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

Serving your green chicken enchilada soup is just as fun as making it! This creamy and cheesy delight can be customized in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some ideas to make your soup experience even better.

With Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herbal touch that brightens the flavors.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess and tang.
• Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado slices complement the soup’s richness.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty kick to each bowl.

With Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips – Serve with crispy tortilla chips for an added crunch.
• Crispy Tortilla Strips – Homemade tortilla strips give a delightful texture contrast.
• Grated Cheese – Extra cheese sprinkled on top melts beautifully for a cheesy finish.

As a Main Dish

• Accompanied by Rice – Serve over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
• With Cornbread – Pair with warm cornbread for a comforting combination.

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

Achieving perfection in your green chicken enchilada soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavors – Use homemade green enchilada sauce if possible, as it enhances the taste significantly.
• Creamy Consistency – Adjust the amount of half-and-half or heavy cream based on your desired richness.
• Season Generously – Don’t forget to taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to enhance overall flavor.
• Cook Low and Slow – For the best results, let it simmer slowly to meld all the flavors together.

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

Pairing side dishes with your green chicken enchilada soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices adds substance and pairs wonderfully with the soup.
2. Corn Salad – A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, balancing the creamy soup.
3. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole offers rich flavors that enhance every spoonful of soup.
4. Black Beans – Soft black beans seasoned with cumin provide protein and depth of flavor.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted vegetables add nutrition and vibrant colors to your table.
6. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas make for a fun dipping option alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience better and your green chicken enchilada soup even tastier. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Not adding enough salt and pepper can leave your soup bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can result in dryness. Monitor the cooking time carefully, especially if using a slow cooker.
• Using cold cream cheese – Cold cream cheese doesn’t blend well, leading to lumps. Make sure it’s softened before adding it to the soup.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients – Using outdated ingredients can compromise flavor. Always check the freshness of your enchilada sauce and salsa verde.
• Rushing the cooking process – Quick cooking methods may not allow flavors to develop fully. Allow enough time for simmering, especially when using stovetop methods.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to leave some space in containers for expansion.

Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Creamy and Cheesy!

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making green chicken enchilada soup:

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute shredded turkey or beef for the chicken if you prefer a different protein option.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth, omit the chicken, and add beans or extra vegetables for protein.

How spicy is this green chicken enchilada soup?

The spice level depends on the salsa verde used. Choose a mild version if you prefer less heat.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep ingredients and store them separately or cook the soup a day ahead and reheat when ready.

How do I customize my green chicken enchilada soup?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, cilantro, or lime juice for extra flavor. You can also adjust cheese types based on preference.

Final Thoughts

This creamy, cheesy green chicken enchilada soup is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!