Description
This Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich blend of green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and creamy dairy. Enhanced with a mix of Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, and salsa verde, this soup delivers a comforting Tex-Mex taste, perfect for a hearty family meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Broth
- 2.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 24-ounce can chicken broth
Sauces and Dairy
- 1 28-ounce can green enchilada sauce
- 1 cup half and half
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 4 ounces salsa verde
Seasonings
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (about 20-25 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Soup Base: Into the same pot with the broth, pour in the green enchilada sauce and salsa verde. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken has cooled enough to handle, shred the meat using two forks or your hands.
- Add Cream Cheeses and Half and Half: Add the cubed cream cheese and half and half to the pot. Stir frequently until the cream cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Return the shredded chicken to the soup. Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese gradually until melted, creating a rich and cheesy texture. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer gently for another 15-20 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish as desired with additional cheese, cilantro, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Tortilla chips and sour cream make excellent toppings.
- Use low-fat or fat-free dairy options to reduce calories if desired.
