Creamy Chicken Enchilada (Printable Version)

Savory blend of chicken, beans, spices, and cheese in a smooth, comforting broth.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 small onion, diced
03 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Spices

05 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
07 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - ½ teaspoon dried oregano

→ Liquids and Sauces

09 - 4 cups chicken broth
10 - 10 ounces red enchilada sauce, canned

→ Canned and Packaged

11 - 14.5 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes, canned
12 - 4 ounces diced green chiles, canned
13 - 15 ounces black beans, canned, drained and rinsed

→ Vegetables and Protein

14 - 1½ cups frozen or canned corn, drained
15 - 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)

→ Dairy

16 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
17 - 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
18 - 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

→ Optional Garnishes

19 - Chopped cilantro
20 - Sliced avocado
21 - Sour cream
22 - Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
23 - Lime wedges
24 - Canned or fresh jalapeños or chilies

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and red bell pepper; cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
02 - Pour in chicken broth, red enchilada sauce, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and diced green chiles. Stir thoroughly and bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
03 - Incorporate black beans, corn, and shredded chicken into the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, promoting flavor integration.
04 - Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in softened cream cheese and heavy cream until the soup attains a creamy consistency. Add shredded cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and integrated.
05 - Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with preferred toppings such as cilantro, avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips, lime wedges, and jalapeños as desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Using rotisserie chicken expedites preparation and enhances flavor.