If you’re craving a comforting meal that bursts with bold flavors Chicken Enchilada Soup from Zupas is a perfect choice. This soup combines tender chicken with a rich enchilada sauce and a medley of fresh ingredients to create a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make at home. It’s like enjoying your favorite Mexican-inspired flavors in a warm bowl.
We love how this recipe balances creamy textures with a hint of spice making it ideal for chilly evenings or anytime you want a flavorful boost. Whether you’re a fan of Zupas or just discovering this delicious soup it’s a great way to bring something special to your dinner table. Let’s dive into making this flavorful Chicken Enchilada Soup that’s sure to become a new favorite in our kitchen.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas experience at home, we need fresh and well-measured ingredients that bring rich flavors and hearty textures together seamlessly.
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (preferably rotisserie for extra flavor)
- Hint: Use skinless breasts or thighs for tenderness
Vegetables
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
Broth and Liquids
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Low sodium preferred |
| Enchilada sauce | 1 cup | Preferably mild or medium heat |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Undrained, with juices |
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Tip: Fresh cilantro can be added for garnish later
Additional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Fresh lime wedges
Each of these toppings adds vibrant color and elevated texture, perfect for customizing our bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas Recipe, having the right equipment on hand streamlines the cooking process and ensures consistent, flavorful results. Below is a detailed list of essential tools we recommend for our recipe:
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly without burning.
- Sharp chef’s knife
Crucial for finely chopping onions, bell peppers, and unraveling cooked chicken.
- Cutting board
A sturdy surface for all your vegetable and chicken prep.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Accuracy with liquids and spices ensures balanced flavors.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
For stirring the soup gently to blend ingredients and prevent sticking.
- Ladle
To serve the soup neatly and portion it into bowls.
- Mixing bowls
Useful for holding prepped vegetables or shredded cheese and sour cream toppings.
- Colander
To drain excess liquid from canned ingredients if needed.
- Can opener
If using canned enchilada sauce or broth.
Optional but helpful tools:
- Immersion blender (if you want a creamier texture)
- Citrus juicer for fresh lime wedges
- Grater for shredding cheese freshly
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dutch oven/heavy pot | Sautéing vegetables and simmering soup |
| Chef’s knife | Chopping vegetables and chicken |
| Cutting board | Prep surface |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stirring soup |
| Ladle | Serving soup |
| Mixing bowls | Holding toppings and prepped items |
| Colander | Draining canned ingredients |
| Can opener | Opening cans |
| Immersion blender (opt) | Creamy soup texture option |
| Citrus juicer (opt) | Extracting lime juice |
| Grater (opt) | Shredding cheese |
Equipping ourselves with these tools simplifies the process, letting us focus on building the soup’s rich layers of flavor and enjoying the cooking experience fully.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking our Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas Recipe, proper prep is essential. Organizing ingredients and prepping correctly will ensure a smooth cooking process and enhance the flavor profile of our soup.
Preparing the Chicken
To start, we need to prepare 2 cups of cooked chicken. For best results:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Cook the chicken by boiling or roasting until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Set aside in a bowl, keeping it ready to add into the soup during the simmering stage.
This careful prep of chicken guarantees tender, flavorful bites in every spoonful.
Chopping Vegetables
Next, we chop the fresh vegetables that contribute essential texture and taste:
| Vegetable | Preparation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow onion | Peel and finely dice | 1 medium |
| Red bell pepper | Remove seeds, dice | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves | Peel and mince | 2 cloves |
Tips for efficient chopping:
- Use a sharp chef’s knife to achieve clean cuts.
- Dice vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Keep chopped vegetables in separate bowls for easier sequential adding.
This colorful medley will meld perfectly with our chicken and enchilada spices.
Measuring Spices and Liquids
Precision in measuring spices and liquids is critical to balance flavors in our Chicken Enchilada Soup:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon | Adds authentic enchilada warmth |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Earthy spice to deepen flavor |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Smoked or sweet as preferred |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Use low-sodium for better control |
| Enchilada sauce | 1 cup | Provides rich tang and spice |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Adds acidity and texture |
Use measuring spoons and cups for accuracy. Keep spices in small bowls or ramekins for quick access during cooking.
By organizing our chicken, vegetables, and seasonings beforehand we set ourselves up for a deliciously seamless cooking experience.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas Recipe with ease. Each stage builds rich flavors and perfect textures that capture the authentic essence of this comforting dish.
Cooking the Chicken
- Choose your chicken: Use 2 cups of boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Place chicken in a large pot and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken and let cool slightly, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Set chicken aside, reserving the cooking liquid if desired for extra broth richness.
Sauteing the Vegetables
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced yellow onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1 diced red bell pepper and 3 minced garlic cloves.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until vegetables soften and develop fragrance.
- Stir frequently to prevent burning and promote even cooking.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of enchilada sauce, and 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Sprinkle in the seasoning mix:
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon* |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
*Adjust salt to taste during final seasoning.
- Stir well to combine and dissolve spices evenly.
Simmering the Soup
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Occasionally stir to blend flavors and prevent sticking.
- The soup should thicken slightly while the chicken absorbs the savory broth.
Final Seasoning Adjustments
- Taste the soup carefully.
- Adjust salt, pepper, and chili powder to your preferred level of heat and balance.
- Optionally squeeze fresh lime juice for brightness and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro.
“Every spoonful of our Chicken Enchilada Soup bursts with the perfect harmony of creamy textures and rich, spicy warmth.“
This method guarantees a flavorful and satisfying bowl every time.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas Recipe, we suggest a variety of flavorful toppings and side dishes that enhance its creamy and spicy profile, making every meal unforgettable.
Recommended Toppings
Add vibrant textures and complementary flavors with these delicious topping options:
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding rich creaminess
- Sour Cream – Balances spice with cool, tangy smoothness
- Fresh Cilantro – Imparts bright herbal notes and color contrast
- Sliced Jalapeños – Adds an extra kick for spice lovers
- Crushed Tortilla Chips – Provides satisfying crunch and authenticity
- Diced Avocado – Contributes buttery texture and subtle flavor
- Fresh Lime Wedges – Squeezed over soup, brightens the taste instantly
- Green Onions – Offers a mild onion flavor and fresh crispness
Side Dish Pairings
Completing the meal with perfectly paired sides enhances our chicken enchilada soup experience. Here are some top choices:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Cornbread | Soft, slightly sweet bread | Soaks up the soup and adds a comforting carbohydrate |
| Mexican Rice | Flavored rice with tomatoes and spices | Complements the spice and offers heartiness |
| Black Bean Salad | Fresh beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and lime juice | Adds freshness and a protein boost |
| Quesadillas | Cheesy grilled tortillas | Perfect for dipping and adds crispy texture |
| Tortilla Chips & Salsa | Crunchy chips paired with fresh salsa | Offers contrasting crunch and zesty flavor |
Using these toppings and side dishes lets us customize the meal to fit any occasion or craving while maintaining the signature comfort and flavor of our Chicken Enchilada Soup.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas anytime, proper make-ahead strategies and storage methods are essential. Here is how we can best prepare and preserve this delicious soup while maintaining its vibrant flavors and creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the soup up to 3 days in advance. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
- Store the soup in airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and absorb unwanted odors from the fridge.
- When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to recombine ingredients evenly.
- To retain creamy richness, avoid reheating the soup in the microwave for extended periods, which can cause separation.
- For best results, add fresh toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and avocado just before serving.
Freezing Instructions
If we want to keep the soup longer, freezing is a reliable option. Follow these steps to maintain flavor and texture:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Cool completely | Let the soup reach room temperature |
| Use freezer-safe containers | Leave headspace for expansion |
| Label and date | Note the freezing date for reference |
| Freeze up to 3 months | To enjoy optimal taste and texture |
| Thaw overnight | Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating |
| Reheat gently | On the stove, stirring slowly to prevent curdling |
Storage Duration
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3 to 4 days | Store in airtight container; cool before refrigerating |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe container; thaw overnight |
Additional Considerations
“For the freshest experience, we recommend adding delicate garnishes such as fresh cilantro and lime wedges only after reheating.” This preserves the bright, fresh flavors and texture contrast that make the soup exceptional.
If our soup thickens during refrigeration or freezing, simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating until the desired consistency is reached.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we can enjoy the Chicken Enchilada Soup Zupas Recipe conveniently without compromising its bold flavors or silky texture.
Conclusion
This Chicken Enchilada Soup recipe from Zupas brings warmth and bold flavor straight to our table with every spoonful. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.
With just the right balance of spice and creaminess, plus endless topping options, it’s easy to make this soup your own. Having the right tools and prep steps in place helps us create this comforting classic without stress.
We encourage you to dive in and enjoy the rich, satisfying taste that makes this soup a standout. Once you try it, it might just become a staple in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Chicken Enchilada Soup from Zupas unique?
Chicken Enchilada Soup combines tender chicken, rich enchilada sauce, and fresh vegetables for a creamy, slightly spicy, and hearty meal that’s both comforting and flavorful.
What ingredients do I need to make Chicken Enchilada Soup at home?
You’ll need cooked chicken, yellow onion, red bell pepper, garlic, chicken broth, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Optional toppings include cheddar cheese and sour cream.
What equipment is essential for making this soup?
Key tools include a large Dutch oven, chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula, ladle, and mixing bowls.
How do I prepare the chicken for the soup?
Boil or roast boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
Can I make Chicken Enchilada Soup ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator or frozen for longer storage.
What are some good toppings to enhance the soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, lime wedges, and green onions.
How do I reheat leftover Chicken Enchilada Soup without losing texture?
Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Serve with warm cornbread, Mexican rice, black bean salad, quesadillas, or tortilla chips with salsa for a complete meal.
Is this soup spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level from chili powder and jalapeños, which can be adjusted to taste.
Can I customize the soup for dietary preferences?
Yes, you can use dairy-free toppings, swap chicken for turkey or beans, and adjust spices to suit your taste and dietary needs.