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Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup

 

Here’s a recipe for Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup:

Ingredients:

  • 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 (28 oz) can green enchilada sauce
  • 24 oz chicken broth
  • 1 cup half and half or heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed at room temperature
  • 4 oz green salsa (salsa verde)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, tortilla strips

Instructions:

  1. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the crockpot.
  2. Pour the green enchilada sauce and chicken broth over the chicken.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
  5. Add the half and half or heavy whipping cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, cubed cream cheese, and green salsa to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
  7. Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to allow the cheese and cream cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.
  8. Serve the Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or tortilla strips.
  9. Enjoy this delicious and comforting soup with family and friends!

This Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day. Feel free to adjust the seasoning and toppings according to your taste preferences.

Here are some helpful tips to make your Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup even more delightful:

  1. Add Fresh Ingredients: Consider adding fresh ingredients like diced onions, minced garlic, or chopped bell peppers to the soup for extra flavor and texture. Sauté these ingredients before adding them to the crockpot to enhance their natural sweetness and aroma.
  2. Use Homemade Enchilada Sauce: While store-bought green enchilada sauce works perfectly fine, making your own homemade sauce can take the flavor of the soup to the next level. You can control the spice level and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
  3. Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano to the soup just before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a burst of freshness. Chop the herbs finely and sprinkle them over the soup as a garnish.
  4. Enhance Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender before adding the shredded chicken back in. This will create a thicker base while still retaining some chunky texture from the chicken.
  5. Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack cheese is traditional for enchiladas, you can mix things up by using other types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or sharp cheddar for a richer flavor. You can also add an extra sprinkle of cheese on top of each serving for an indulgent touch.
  6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on the saltiness of the broth and the spiciness of the enchilada sauce, you may need to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lime juice for balance.
  7. Serve with Homemade Tortilla Strips: Instead of store-bought tortilla strips, consider making your own homemade version by cutting corn tortillas into strips and frying or baking them until crispy. These will add a delicious crunch to the soup and elevate the overall presentation.
  8. Add a Touch of Heat: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for some extra spice. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for those who want to kick up the heat even more.
  9. Let Flavors Develop: For the best flavor, allow the soup to simmer in the crockpot for the full cooking time to allow the ingredients to meld together and develop rich, complex flavors.
  10. Garnish Creatively: Get creative with your soup garnishes! In addition to the traditional toppings like avocado, cilantro, and sour cream, you can also add diced tomatoes, sliced radishes, crumbled queso fresco, or a drizzle of Mexican crema for extra flair.

By incorporating these tips, you can take your Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup to new heights of flavor and enjoyment!

Here are some secrets to help you achieve that perfection:

  1. Layer Flavors: Start by browning the chicken before adding it to the crockpot. This adds depth of flavor to the soup. You can also season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chili powder before browning for extra flavor.
  2. Homemade Green Enchilada Sauce: While store-bought sauce works well, making your own green enchilada sauce can take the soup to the next level. It’s fresher and allows you to control the flavor and spice level.
  3. Use Bone-In Chicken: Using bone-in chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, adds richness and flavor to the soup. The bones release collagen as they cook, resulting in a richer broth.
  4. Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking the soup on low heat for a longer time allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender. Resist the urge to cook on high heat, as this can result in tougher chicken and less flavorful soup.
  5. Add Dairy Towards the End: Add the half and half or heavy cream towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from curdling. This ensures a creamy and smooth texture.
  6. Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the soup during the last hour of cooking. This will help thicken the soup without altering the flavor.
  7. Shred Chicken Properly: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Be sure to remove any bones and cartilage before returning the shredded chicken to the soup.
  8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or additional spices to balance the flavors.
  9. Add Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, and avocado can brighten up the flavors of the soup. Add these ingredients just before serving for a burst of freshness.
  10. Garnish Creatively: Garnish the soup with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. These toppings not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

By following these secrets, you can achieve the perfect Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup that is flavorful, comforting, and sure to impress!

Here are some popular questions and answers related to Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup:

  1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. However, it’s recommended to thaw the chicken before adding it to the crockpot for even cooking.
  2. How long does this soup need to cook in the crockpot? This soup typically cooks on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  3. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are often more flavorful and tender, making them a great choice for this soup.
  4. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of in a crockpot? Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Simply follow the same instructions, but simmer the soup in a large pot on the stove over low heat for 1-2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Can I freeze this soup for later? Yes, you can freeze this soup for later. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  6. What can I serve with this soup? This soup pairs well with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. It also goes well with warm tortillas or tortilla chips on the side.
  7. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe instructions, then allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
  8. Is this soup spicy? The level of spiciness in this soup can be adjusted to your preference by choosing a mild or spicy green enchilada sauce and adjusting the amount of green salsa you use. If you prefer a milder soup, you can omit the green salsa altogether.
  9. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer. This will make the soup vegetarian-friendly while still providing plenty of flavor.
  10. Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by omitting the half and half or heavy cream and using a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also use coconut cream or almond milk as a substitute for the creamy texture.