Its loaded with hearty chicken, corn, and beans.

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

This creamy chicken enchilada soup is inspired by bold Mexican flavors.

The soup reminds me of my favorite red enchilada sauce with a spicy tomato and ancho chile base.

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Topped with Jalapenos, Cilantro, and Crema in a Bowl at a Table Setting with Two Spoons on a Table Napkin, Bowls of Toppings (Jalapenos and Lime Wedges), and Tortillas

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

Now thats festive and fun!

What Ingredients Are in Enchilada Soup?

Chicken, corn, and beans add substance, while cream and cheese give this soup a dreamy texture.

Dutch Oven of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup with a Ladle

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

The soup base is inspired by a traditionalred enchilada sauce, with deep red ancho chiles as the hallmark.

Ancho chiles are dried green poblanos.

This spice has a smoky flavor and a little heat, but its not hair-on-fire spicy.

Dutch Oven of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup with Some Poured into the Pot from a Ladle

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

For this recipe I use ground ancho chile powder instead of whole as a shortcut.

Start with 1 tablespoon (mild with a little kick) and add more if you like heat.

What Makes This Enchilada Soup So Creamy

Its important to useheavy cream, not milk or half-and-half.

Bowl of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Garnished with Cilantro, Crema, and Jalapenos Surrounded by Little Bowls with Toppings (Jalapenos, Lime Wedges, Cotija, and Crema)

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

The extra fat in heavy cream keeps the soup from curdling when mixed with the acidic tomatoes.

For a subtle taste of cheese, I add Monterey jack to the soup.

I also drizzle cremaMexican cultured creamon top of the soup.

Pot of Cooked Onions for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

It’s naturally sour and has the consistency of thick cream.

For garnish, I add crumbled cotija cheese.

It is a cows milk cheese with a salty punch.

Spices Added to Cooked Onions for Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

Although many creamy soups dont freeze well, I found this one to be freezer-friendly.

Add the onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until soft and golden.

Stir in the garlic, chile powder, oregano, brown sugar, and salt.

Canned Tomatoes Added to the Pot for Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

Cook, stirring often, for 1 minute.

Stir in the tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Stir in the shredded cheese.

Soup Ingredients Blended Together until Smooth for Chicken Enchilada Soup

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

Carefully, ladle the soup into a blender.

Cover the blender with a lid and cover the lid with a folded dish towel.

Starting on low speed, puree the soup for about 30 seconds.

Bowls of Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup at a Table Setting with Spoons on a Table Napkin, Tortillas in the Corner, and a Small Bowl of Cotija

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

Gradually increase the speed to medium-high and blend for another minute, until the soup is smooth.

Simple Tip!

Skip the blending and save a step.

Return the soup to the pot and set it over medium heat.

Stir in the stock, cream, chicken, corn, and beans.

Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often.

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if youd like.

Ladle the soup into bowls and spoon some crema over each.

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

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