Experience the tantalizing flavors of Mexican cuisine with a twist in this soul-warming Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup. Packed with tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and zesty green enchilada sauce, this hearty soup is a comforting delight for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets to making this delectable dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2.5 lbs. of boneless skinless Chicken Breasts or thighs
- 28 oz. can of Green Enchilada sauce
- 24 oz. of Chicken broth
- 1 Cup half and half or heavy whipping cream
- 2 Cups Monterey jack cheese
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed at room temp
- 4 oz. Green Salsa (salsa verde)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the crockpot.
2. Add the Sauces and Broth:
- Pour the green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, and green salsa over the chicken.
3. Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
5. Make it Creamy:
- Stir in the half and half or heavy whipping cream, Monterey jack cheese, and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Season to Perfection:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to suit your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Green Enchilada Chicken Soup!
Cook’s Notes and Variations
- Toppings Galore: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding diced avocado, sliced jalapenos, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added flavor and texture.
- Thickening Agent: If you prefer a thicker soup consistency, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Extra Heat: For an extra kick of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Simply increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours if using frozen chicken.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the soup ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, simply transfer the ingredients to the crockpot and proceed with the cooking instructions.
Q: Is this soup spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder soup, you can use mild green enchilada sauce and omit the green salsa or reduce the amount used.
Q: Can I freeze this soup for later? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto:
- Replace Half and Half: Substitute half and half or heavy whipping cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to lower the carb content.
- No Green Salsa: Omit the green salsa or use a homemade keto-friendly version made with tomatillos, jalapenos, and lime juice.
Low-Carb:
- Cream Cheese Alternative: Replace the cream cheese with a low-carb alternative such as mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt to reduce the carb content while maintaining creaminess.
- Reduced Cheese: Use less Monterey jack cheese or opt for a low-fat variety to decrease the overall carb and calorie content of the soup.
Savor the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with every spoonful of this comforting Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this hearty soup is sure to hit the spot. With its creamy texture, bold spices, and tender chicken, it’s a flavorful journey for your taste buds that will keep you coming back for more. So dust off your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to the irresistible allure of this Green Enchilada Chicken Soup!
