Hola, flavor amigos! Chef Ethan Harris in the house, and today, we’re diving into a soup that’s so enchanting, it’ll make your taste buds do the salsa – Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup! Get ready for a fiesta in your Instant Pot.
A kitchen where flavors collide like mariachi bands at a Mexican carnival. That’s what we’re aiming for with this soup-er adventure. Grab your sombrero, because we’re about to spice things up!
What Is Chicken Enchilada Soup?
Chicken Enchilada Soup is a warm and flavorful dish inspired by the classic Mexican flavors of chicken enchiladas. This hearty soup brings together shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, beans, vegetables, and a blend of spices, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. It captures the essence of traditional chicken enchiladas but in a soup form, making it easy to enjoy the rich flavors without the need for assembling individual enchiladas.
Typically prepared using an Instant Pot or slow cooker for added convenience, Chicken Enchilada Soup is known for its bold and spicy profile, often featuring ingredients like diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and aromatic spices like cumin and chili powder. The soup is often garnished with shredded cheese, sliced green onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of freshness.
Gather the ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup
Our flavor party is about to get lit! Chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, spices, Vegetables, – it’s like assembling the Avengers of the culinary world. Spoiler alert: there’s no villain here; it’s all flavor heroes.
How To Make Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
Cooked chicken breasts, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and peel and dice the carrots.
Step 2. Instant Pot Magic
Add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, diced carrots, and chicken broth to the Instant Pot.
Step 3. Set and Forget
Seal the Instant Pot, set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes, and let the magic happen.
Step 4. Release and Adjust
Quick-release the pressure, open the pot, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, sliced green onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe
Course: MainCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes15
minutes300
kcalQuick, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious—this Instant Pot recipe brings the essence of enchiladas to a comforting bowl of soup.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 carrots, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chicken, dice onion, mince garlic, and peel/dice carrots.
- Instant Pot Magic: Combine all ingredients in Instant Pot—chicken, beans, corn, enchilada sauce, spices, and carrots.
- Set and Forget: Seal Instant Pot, set to high pressure for 10 mins, let the magic unfold.
- Release and Adjust: Quick-release pressure, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle into bowls, top with cheese, green onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy!
Notes
- *Rate Recipe: If you’ve tried the recipe, don’t forget to Rate the Recipe in the Comments Section. Thank you!
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup
Warm Tortillas: Serve alongside warm tortillas or crusty bread for a delightful dipping experience.
Cilantro-Lime Rice: Spoon the soup over a bed of cilantro-lime rice for a flavorful and complementary side.
Avocado Wedges: Add richness by serving the soup with fresh avocado wedges on the side.
Mexican Street Corn: Elevate the meal with a side of Mexican street corn—grilled corn on the cob with mayo, cheese, and chili powder.
Toppings Bar: Create a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and extra lime wedges for guests to personalize their bowls.
Expert Cooking Tips for Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Sauté onions and garlic for a richer flavor foundation.
- Toast cumin and chili powder for intensified spice notes.
- Ensure even carrot dicing for consistent texture.
- Cook chicken with other ingredients and shred for tenderness.
- Allow a brief natural release for moist and flavorful chicken.
- Sprinkle garnishes just before serving for freshness.
- Adjust spice levels by choosing the right enchilada sauce and chili powder.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be a flavorful alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store leftover soup?
Allow it to cool, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of an Instant Pot?
Yes, simmer the ingredients in a pot on medium heat until the chicken is cooked through.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure the cooking time is adjusted accordingly. Use the manual high-pressure setting for frozen chicken.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Confirm that your enchilada sauce is gluten-free, and skip any toppings with gluten.
Final Thoughts on Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup
As you indulge in the heartwarming goodness of our Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup, let each spoonful be a reminder of the joy found in simple yet sensational cooking. This dish, with its vibrant flavors and comforting allure, is a celebration of culinary magic made possible by the Instant Pot.
For more culinary adventures, explore the array of Instant Pot recipes waiting to be discovered. From savory stews to delectable desserts, each recipe promises the same blend of simplicity and exquisite taste. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen continue to be filled with the warmth and aroma of delicious creations!