Looking for a warm, delicious soup that’s easy to make? You’ve found it! My Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup in the slow cooker is the perfect blend of flavors and comfort. Packed with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and a hint of spice, this dish warms you from the inside out. Here’s how to create your next family favorite with simple ingredients and easy steps. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Avocado slices, for garnish
– Tortilla strips, for serving
Equipment Needed
– Slow cooker
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cutting board and knife
Gather your ingredients first. This will make cooking easy and fun. You need chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, and garlic. These items create a rich base for your soup.
Spices are key here. Chili powder, cumin, and paprika give depth to the flavor. Use salt and pepper to adjust taste. Don’t forget the heavy cream! It adds creaminess and makes the soup delightful.
For garnishes, fresh cilantro adds a bright touch. Slices of avocado bring creaminess. Tortilla strips give a nice crunch. These extras make your soup look and taste even better.
For equipment, a slow cooker is a must. It does all the hard work for you. Measuring cups and spoons help you get the amounts just right. A cutting board and knife make prep easy.
With everything ready, you’re set to make this creamy chicken enchilada soup. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for dinner. Enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
– Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, onion, and garlic.
Cooking Process
– Pour chicken broth over the ingredients.
– Sprinkle in spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Final Steps
– Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
– Shred chicken and stir in heavy cream.
– Let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes.
This soup is easy to make and full of flavor. The slow cooker does all the work. You just need to enjoy the smell as it cooks! Each step adds layers of taste, making the chicken tender and the broth rich. By the time it’s ready, your kitchen will feel warm and inviting.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make this soup even tastier, try different spices. You can add a dash of hot sauce for heat. Fresh ingredients, like lime or cilantro, brighten the flavor. They add a fresh twist that you will love.
Perfecting Texture
Cook the chicken long enough until it is tender. This will make shredding easy and quick. Adjust the cream quantity based on how creamy you want your soup. A little more cream gives you that rich texture.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy tortilla chips add a nice crunch. Serve them alongside the soup for a great combo. A side salad makes this meal complete. It adds a fresh touch and balances the richness of the soup.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change a few ingredients to suit your taste.
– Use shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
– Substitute black beans with kidney beans or pinto beans for a new flavor.
Vegetarian Option
If you want a meat-free dish, this soup can still shine.
– Replace chicken with plant-based protein or extra beans for protein.
– Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich base.
Spicy Version
Want to turn up the heat? Here’s how to make it spicy.
– Add jalapeños or more chili powder for a kick.
– Incorporate a dash of lime juice for zesty flavor that brightens the soup.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
I recommend storing leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy the soup again without losing flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in individual portions. It will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the soup tasty and safe.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave. If the soup seems thick, add more cream for richness. This helps restore the creamy texture and keeps it delicious.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?
The estimated cook time on low is 6-8 hours or 3-4 hours on high. This gives the chicken time to cook fully and become tender. When the time is up, check that the chicken is cooked through.
Can I make this soup without heavy cream?
Yes, you can make this soup without heavy cream. Consider using coconut milk or a non-dairy substitute for a lighter option. Both choices will still keep the soup creamy and delicious.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Serve this soup with tortilla chips, avocado, or a side of cornbread for a hearty meal. These sides add great flavor and texture to your dining experience. Enjoy the mix of creamy soup with the crunch of chips!
This recipe for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is simple and tasty. You can make it with just a few ingredients and a slow cooker. From using different beans to make it vegetarian, you have options. Don’t forget to try fresh herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy leftovers later. Overall, it’s a flexible dish that fits many tastes. Dive in and make your own delicious version!
