If you are craving a comforting, flavor-packed dinner, this Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Fresh & Creamy is the perfect answer. Made with tender chicken, green enchilada sauce, and a rich creamy base, this soup delivers all the bold flavors of green chicken enchiladas in an easy, cozy bowl.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
This soup is simple enough for busy weeknights but tastes like something you would order at a favorite Mexican restaurant. It is creamy without being heavy, mildly spicy but easy to adjust for the whole family, and incredibly satisfying. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it nearly hands-off. It is also naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, while still being flexible enough for non-keto eaters with toppings or sides.
Ingredients for Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Soup Base
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Green enchilada sauce
- Chicken broth
- Diced green chilies
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
Creamy Finish
- Cream cheese, softened
Seasonings
- Ground cumin
- Chili powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican-blend cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro
- Avocado slices
- Jalapeños
Ingredient Notes
If you prefer a dairy-free version, replace the cream cheese with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. For extra protein, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts and will result in an even richer texture. Choose mild green enchilada sauce for kids or spice-sensitive eaters, or medium if you enjoy more heat. This recipe contains no alcohol or pork, making it family-friendly as written.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Load the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, diced onion, garlic, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Step 2 – Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 3 – Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well.
Step 4 – Make It Creamy
Add the softened cream cheese to the soup. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5 – Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with your favorite toppings. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
Soften the cream cheese before adding it so it melts smoothly. Shred the chicken finely for a more enchilada-like texture. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth. For extra flavor, top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Let the soup sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully blend.
Flavor Variations
Add a can of drained white beans or black beans if you are not keeping it low-carb. Stir in roasted green chilies for a smokier flavor. Add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies. Sprinkle in a pinch of smoked paprika for depth. Finish with a swirl of salsa verde for added tang.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with a simple green salad, cauliflower rice, or keto-friendly tortillas. For non-keto diners, it pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, cornbread, or warm flour tortillas. It also works well as a starter for a Mexican-inspired meal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, stirring to restore creaminess.
Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Fresh & Creamy
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A comforting, fresh, and creamy soup made with tender chicken, green enchilada sauce, and warm spices, delivering all the flavors of green chicken enchiladas in an easy cozy bowl.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Green enchilada sauce
- Chicken broth
- Diced green chilies
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Cream cheese, softened
- Ground cumin
- Chili powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, diced onion, garlic, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add the softened cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
Soften the cream cheese before adding for a smooth texture. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth. Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
FAQ About Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, simply simmer all ingredients except cream cheese in a large pot for about 25 minutes, shred the chicken, then stir in cream cheese until smooth.
Is this soup spicy?
It is mildly spicy. You can control the heat by choosing mild or medium enchilada sauce and adjusting the green chilies.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, add shredded rotisserie chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking and reduce total cook time.
Is this soup keto-friendly?
Yes, it is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly as written. Just be mindful of toppings.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe doubles well and is great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Green Chicken Enchilada Soup – Fresh & Creamy is the kind of recipe you will come back to again and again. It is comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, whether for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. One pot, simple ingredients, and big flavor make this soup a true winner.