Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe

There is nothing quite like a bowl of warm, cozy soup to brighten up any day, and this Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe is a shining star for anyone craving a hearty, Mexican-style comfort meal. Packed with tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, black beans, and a vibrant tomato-based red enchilada sauce, this soup offers the perfect balance of bold flavors and soothing textures. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress friends with a simple yet satisfying dish, this recipe brings a festive touch and satisfying warmth to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of straightforward ingredients that combine to create a rich, flavorful meal. Each element has a purposeful role, from the protein-packed chicken to the vibrant enchilada sauce that gives the soup its signature red color and depth.

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken speeds up prep and keeps the soup tender and meaty.
• 3 cups chicken broth: A savory base that carries all the flavors and adds comforting warmth.
• 1 cup red enchilada sauce: This is the soul of the soup, bringing rich tomato goodness and gentle spices.
• 1 cup corn kernels: Adds a touch of sweetness and delightful texture contrast with each spoonful.
• 1 cup black beans, drained: Earthy and hearty, these beans boost the nutrition and make the soup extra filling.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all the vibrant flavors.

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

The first step to this delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe is incredibly simple: gather all the key ingredients and add them to your favorite soup pot. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, corn kernels, and black beans. This straightforward assembly sets the foundation for a rich and satisfying soup.

Step 2: Simmer and Blend Flavors

Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering step lets all the flavors meld beautifully—the smoky notes from the enchilada sauce, the sweetness from the corn, and the heartiness of the beans and chicken. You’ll instantly notice your kitchen filling with that irresistible Mexican-inspired aroma.

Step 3: Season and Adjust

When the soup has simmered to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to perfectly suit your palate. If you’re feeling adventurous and want a bit of heat, a sprinkle of chipotle powder is a fantastic addition that complements the red enchilada base wonderfully.

Step 4: Serve Warm and Topped

Once seasoning is just right, ladle the soup into bowls and get ready for the best part—adding your favorite toppings. This final touch elevates the experience of the Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe, adding richness, freshness, or crunch as you see fit.

How to Serve Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe

Garnishes

Toppings take this soup from comforting to celebratory. Try shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melting into the hot soup, creamy slices of avocado for a cool contrast, or a dollop of sour cream for extra silkiness. Fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice brighten each spoonful and add layers of flavor you will crave again and again.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe with crunchy tortilla chips or warm, buttered cornbread to soak up every last drop. A simple side salad of crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette also works beautifully to balance the richness of the soup and add freshness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this soup at a gathering or just want to impress, consider hollowing out small bread bowls for a fun, edible serving vessel. Alternatively, layering the soup in mason jars with toppings added just before serving makes for an inviting presentation perfect for casual entertaining or packed lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe stores amazingly well. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors deepen overnight, making your next meal even better. Make sure to consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and freshness.

Freezing

Want to enjoy this soup another day without extra cooking? Freeze it! Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It keeps well for up to 3 months, so you have a delicious, ready-made meal waiting whenever cravings hit.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up. Add any fresh toppings just before serving to maintain their texture and vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Canned chicken can be a convenient substitute in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and adjust seasoning as necessary, since canned chicken may have different moisture content and salt levels than fresh cooked chicken.

How spicy is this Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe?

This soup is mild by default, making it approachable for all tastes, especially those who prefer gentle flavors. If you enjoy more heat, adding chipotle powder or diced jalapeños is a perfect way to customize the spice level to your liking.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this soup?

The easiest method is to use two forks to pull cooked chicken apart into thin, bite-sized pieces. Using rotisserie chicken makes this step fast and effortless—just grab some from the store and shred to your heart’s content.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. You can boost protein with extra beans, tofu, or even a meat substitute. The enchilada sauce provides plenty of flavor to keep it satisfying.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It is, provided your enchilada sauce and broth do not contain gluten ingredients. Always check labels to be sure. This recipe naturally relies on wholesome, gluten-free ingredients and is a great choice for those watching their gluten intake.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—easy to make, brimming with fresh flavors, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, feeding a crowd, or simply craving some bold Mexican-inspired comfort, this soup is a winner every time. Go ahead, make a batch, and savor the cozy, vibrant goodness that only this Chicken Enchilada Soup (Red) Recipe can deliver.

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