This Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is the perfect meal for busy days when you crave something hearty and comforting. Packed with tender shredded chicken, zesty green enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and a variety of spices, this soup is a flavorful and easy option for dinner. Simply throw all the ingredients in your crock pot, set it, and let the slow cooker work its magic. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a meal prep idea, this soup is a hit every time. It’s easy to customize, making it a versatile option that works for any occasion. The combination of savory and slightly spicy flavors creates a rich and satisfying bowl that is perfect for colder months or any time you’re in the mood for something filling.

What’s even better? This recipe is simple to prepare and requires minimal effort while still delivering big on flavor. Plus, it makes great leftovers that taste just as good the next day. Ready in 6-8 hours, you can enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup after a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make

This recipe requires minimal prep work. Just add everything to the crock pot, set it, and let it cook while you go about your day.

2. Flavorful and Hearty

The combination of green enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, and other spices creates a rich, savory flavor that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day.

3. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily add or substitute ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or your dietary preferences. Add more veggies, adjust the spice level, or try different beans.

4. Healthy and Wholesome

With ingredients like chicken, black beans, corn, and vegetables, this soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe makes several servings and stores well for leftovers, making it a great option for busy days when you need an easy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Diced tomatoes
Green enchilada sauce
Diced green chilies
Black beans
Corn
Onion
Garlic
Chicken broth
Cumin
Chili powder
Salt and pepper
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips

Variations

Add Extra Veggies: For an extra nutritional boost, add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the soup.
Spicy Version: Add more green chilies or a diced jalapeño for an added kick.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth along with additional beans, such as pinto beans or kidney beans, for a hearty vegetarian soup.
Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and sour cream, or use dairy-free alternatives for a dairy-free version of this soup.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.

Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Top the chicken with diced tomatoes, green enchilada sauce, green chilies, black beans, corn, diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Set the Crock Pot

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the soup hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or crispy tortilla strips.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier and more flavorful soup, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
Stir Occasionally: If possible, stir the soup a couple of times during cooking to ensure the chicken stays moist and evenly cooked.
Add Extra Broth: If the soup becomes too thick during cooking, feel free to add extra chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning, especially the salt and pepper, according to your preferences.

How to Serve

This soup is hearty enough to be served as a main course. You can serve it with a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or crispy tortilla strips. A side of cornbread or crusty bread makes the perfect accompaniment. For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple green salad or tortilla chips.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove until hot.

Reheating

To reheat leftover soup, you can warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to thin it out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you may need to cook the soup a little longer, and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey, ground beef, or even pork. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.

3. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your canned ingredients to ensure no gluten is added.

4. How spicy is this soup?

This soup has a mild level of heat due to the green enchilada sauce and chilies. If you prefer more heat, add additional spices like cayenne pepper or jalapeños.

5. Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook this soup in an Instant Pot. Use the “soup” setting and cook for about 15 minutes on high pressure. Shred the chicken afterward and serve.

6. Can I add dairy to this soup?

Yes, you can stir in some heavy cream or cheese for a creamier version of the soup.

7. Can I use canned chicken?

While fresh chicken breasts provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned chicken in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

8. Can I make this soup spicier?

If you like spicy food, add more green chilies, jalapeños, or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

9. How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes about 6 servings, depending on portion size.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger group or want leftovers. Just make sure your crock pot can accommodate the larger quantity.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and comfort. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing meals for the week, this soup is an easy go-to option. Its versatility and delicious flavors are sure to make it a staple in your recipe collection.