A Family Favorite That’s Surprisingly Easy
There’s nothing better than a warm, creamy bowl of soup that brings the comfort of classic enchiladas with half the effort. If you love bold Mexican flavors, this Creamy Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Soup is about to become your go-to weeknight meal.
I first made this soup on a busy Monday, craving the rich, cheesy goodness of enchiladas but without the time to roll, bake, and layer. With a little improvisation (and a lot of green chilies), this one-pot wonder was born—and trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Why This Soup Works Every Time
I get it—when it comes to soups, you want something filling, flavorful, and foolproof. This enchilada-inspired soup checks all the boxes:
✔️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✔️ Creamy & Spicy: The green chilies and creamy base create a balanced, comforting heat.
✔️ One-Pot Recipe: Less cleanup, more flavor.
✔️ Loaded with Protein: Thanks to tender shredded chicken.
✔️ Tastes Even Better the Next Day: Perfect for meal prep!
And the best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients—just a handful of pantry staples, a good pot, and an appetite for something creamy, cheesy, and full of Southwestern flair.
What Makes Green Chilies So Special?
If you’ve never cooked with green chilies, you’re in for a treat. These little gems add a mild, smoky heat that takes this soup from good to unforgettable.
They come in different varieties, but for this soup, I highly recommend using Hatch green chilies if you can find them. Their earthy, slightly sweet taste pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy broth. No Hatch chilies? No worries—canned green chilies work just as well.
For more on the magic of Hatch chilies, check out these recipes.
The Secret to the Perfect Creamy Texture
Ever had a soup that’s too thin or, worse, too thick and gloopy? The key to getting the perfect creamy consistency lies in:
- A balance of dairy and broth – too much of either, and you lose that silky texture.
- A gentle simmer – overheating can cause the dairy to separate.
- A touch of thickener – whether it’s a flour-based roux or a bit of cornstarch, it helps create that luscious, velvety finish.
Need a dairy-free option? Swap out the cream for coconut milk and use a plant-based cheese alternative. Find more substitution ideas here
Creamy Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Soup
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Ladle
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken Rotisserie chicken works great
- 1 can diced green chilies 4 oz can
- 4 cups chicken broth low sodium recommended
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup sour cream full fat or light
- 1 cup shredded cheese Mexican blend or cheddar
- 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
Optional Toppings
- sliced avocado
- chopped cilantro
- crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium heat.
- Add the shredded chicken, green chilies, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream and shredded cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Serve hot, topped with avocado, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips, if desired.
Notes
Toppings: The Fun Part!
If there’s one thing I love about this soup, it’s the endless topping possibilities. You can go as simple or as loaded as you like. Here are some of my favorites:
🔥 Crispy tortilla strips – for that satisfying crunch
🧀 Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack – because more cheese is always a good idea
🥑 Diced avocado – adds creaminess and freshness
🌿 Fresh cilantro and lime – brightens up every bite
🌶️ Jalapeños or hot sauce – if you like extra heat
(Looking for the best store-bought tortilla strips? Check out this guide: [EXTERNAL LINK].)
How to Make This Soup Even Easier
Let’s be honest—some days, you just don’t have time for chopping, stirring, and waiting. Here are a few shortcuts that make this soup even faster:
⏳ Use rotisserie chicken – pre-cooked and shredded, it saves at least 10 minutes.
🥫 Go for canned green chilies and enchilada sauce – no need for roasting or blending.
🍲 Make it in a slow cooker – just dump everything in and let it do the work.
Pairing Ideas: What Goes Well with This Soup?
While this soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, a few side dishes can turn it into a full-on feast. Here are my top picks:
🥖 Warm cornbread – that sweet-savory combo is unbeatable.
🥗 A simple Mexican slaw – for a refreshing crunch.
🥤 A tangy margarita (or mocktail!) – because why not?
(Looking for the best cornbread recipe? Try this: [EXTERNAL LINK].)
Leftovers? Even Better!
Like most soups, this Creamy Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Soup tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. (Pro tip: Freeze in portions for easy reheating!)
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is green chili sauce the same as enchilada sauce?
Not exactly! While both sauces share a similar Mexican flavor profile, green chili sauce is typically made with roasted green chilies, garlic, and broth, while green enchilada sauce often includes tomatillos and seasonings for a tangier taste. However, you can use them interchangeably in recipes like chicken enchilada soup for a delicious twist.
Can you use cream of chicken soup in chicken enchiladas?
Yes! Many home cooks use cream of chicken soup as a shortcut to create a thicker, creamier filling for chicken enchiladas. It adds a rich, comforting texture, making enchiladas extra cheesy and flavorful. You can also mix it into enchilada soup to enhance the creaminess.
What to serve with creamy green chili chicken enchilada soup?
This soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:
- Warm cornbread for a sweet-savory combo
- A simple Mexican slaw to add crunch and freshness
- Grilled cheese quesadillas as a hearty side
- Avocado slices and lime wedges for extra creaminess and zest
What goes in chicken enchilada soup?
Traditional chicken enchilada soup includes shredded chicken, green chilies, enchilada sauce, cheese, and broth for a rich, spicy, and creamy base. Some variations add corn, black beans, or rice for extra texture and heartiness. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste!
Final Thoughts
This soup is one of those effortless, cozy meals that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just need something warm on a chilly evening, this creamy green chili chicken enchilada soup is sure to hit the spot.
Give it a try, make it your own, and let me know—what’s your favorite soup topping? Drop a comment below!