ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Layer the Ingredients: In the base of your slow cooker, add the chicken breasts or thighs, green enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, onion, garlic, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your preferences.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Soup
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6–7 hours or high heat for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender enough to shred with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the soup is done, use tongs to remove the chicken breasts or thighs from the soup. Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the slow cooker. Stir everything together.
Step 3: Add Creaminess (Optional)
- For a creamy texture, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the soup and stir well. This step adds richness and makes the soup even more comforting.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat to allow the cream to fully incorporate into the soup.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and optional toppings such as shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for added freshness.
Tips for the Best Green Enchilada Chicken Soup
- Chicken Thighs for More Flavor: While chicken breasts work great, chicken thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, making them a fantastic choice for this recipe.
- Spice It Up: If you like extra heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and substitute with more beans (such as pinto or kidney beans) and some roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Use Homemade Enchilada Sauce: If you have time, try making your own green enchilada sauce for even more flavor and control over the ingredients.
- Add Vegetables: For a veggie boost, throw in some diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
Variations
- Creamy Avocado Soup: Top your soup with sliced avocado for a creamy texture and extra flavor.
- Spicy Green Chilies: For an extra burst of flavor, add canned green chilies or roasted poblano peppers to the soup base.
- Cheesy Enchilada Soup: Stir in some shredded cheese when serving to make it extra cheesy. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack are excellent choices.
- Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup: Add some crumbled tortilla chips directly into the soup for a thicker consistency, or use them as a garnish for added crunch.
Why This Soup is a Winner
This Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. The flavors meld together beautifully as they cook, creating a comforting, flavorful broth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious homemade soup that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight, and because it’s made in the slow cooker, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that’s both convenient and crowd-pleasing.
Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side of chips or cornbread, this soup is a surefire way to warm up your body and soul. Try it for your next meal and enjoy a taste of comfort in every bowl!
ADVERTISEMENT
