Dive into a warm bowl of chili’s chicken enchilada soup. It’s a taste of Tex-Mex comfort, perfect for any day. This article explores the deliciousness of this soup, along with tips to make it at home.
A Taste of Tex-Mex in a Bowl
Chili’s chicken enchilada soup is a beloved dish for many. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a real treat. The blend of chicken, cheese, and spices is incredibly satisfying. This soup is a great choice for a family meal, or when you need something warm and comforting.
Why This Chicken Enchilada Style Soup Is So Popular
The unique combination of textures and tastes in this soup is why people enjoy it so much. It’s not just a regular soup; it’s a meal packed with flavor. This chicken enchilada style soup is reminiscent of classic dishes. It provides warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
The Magic of the Flavors
The flavors in this soup create a delightful experience. The blend of mild peppers and spices is well-balanced. It is not too spicy, yet has a depth of flavor that makes it interesting. The slight smokiness of the chili powder also complements the savory chicken and the creamy cheese.
The Comfort Factor of Chili’s Inspired Chicken Soup
This soup is more than just a meal. It provides a feeling of comfort. The warm, hearty nature of it makes it a perfect choice on a cold day. It is like a warm hug in a bowl, always a welcome treat.
Making Your Own Chicken Enchilada Soup at Home
You can create a version of this comforting soup in your own kitchen. It is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious soup.
Key Ingredients to Have for Chicken Enchilada Style Soup
To start, you’ll need:
- Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- Chicken broth
- Diced onion and garlic
- Green chilies
- Tomato paste
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Monterey Jack cheese
- Masa harina (for thickening)
Having these items on hand will make the process smoother.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Begin by sautéing onion and garlic in a pot.
- Add the chili powder and cumin. Stir for a minute to release the aromas.
- Add the chicken broth, tomato paste, and green chilies.
- Let it simmer for a bit.
- Next, mix masa harina with some water to form a smooth paste. This will thicken the soup.
- Slowly add the masa mixture to the pot. Stir well.
- Add the cooked chicken and bring it to a simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Finally, stir in the cheese until melted.
- Serve and enjoy this delicious chili’s style chicken enchilada soup.
Tips for the Best Homemade Version of this Enchilada Soup
- Use quality ingredients to enhance the flavors.
- Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Freshly shred the cheese just before adding it to the pot.
- Add a touch of lime juice at the end for extra tanginess.
Serving and Enjoying Your Soup
The best way to enjoy this soup is when it is hot and fresh. You can enjoy it as is, or serve it with some yummy toppings.
Topping Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Soup
Consider these to elevate your soup:
- A dollop of sour cream
- A sprinkle of chopped cilantro
- Some crispy tortilla strips
- A drizzle of hot sauce if you like some heat
- A small portion of guacamole
Pairing Options With Your Chili’s Chicken Style Soup
This soup is great on its own, but you can also pair it with:
- A side of cornbread
- A simple salad
- Some crunchy chips
- A grilled cheese sandwich
Making It a Meal with Chicken Enchilada Style Flavors
You can make the chicken enchilada soup the center of a larger meal. It is very filling and will satisfy anyone’s hunger. Adding a side dish or two can make for a very complete meal. This makes it perfect for gatherings.
Health Aspects of Chili’s Chicken Enchilada Soup
This soup can be a part of a good eating plan. It offers several good things from the ingredients it uses.
Important things in it
The soup includes:
- Protein from the chicken
- Fiber from the onion and other items
- Vitamins from the tomato and chilies
Making it Better for You
You can make the soup better for you. For example, use more chicken, or add additional veggies. You can also use lower fat cheese. You could use whole-grain tortillas, or serve with a light salad.
Things to Watch For in This Chicken Enchilada Soup
It’s important to know how many calories are in a bowl of chili’s chicken enchilada soup. This can vary, depending on the ingredients and how much you eat. Be mindful of this when planning your meals.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
If you are looking to try new things, you can also use these ideas:
Vegetarian Version of Enchilada Soup
You can replace the chicken with beans to create a vegetarian chili enchilada style soup. Using black beans or kidney beans will work perfectly. You can also add mushrooms or additional items to make the soup heartier.
Spicy Version for Chicken Enchilada Soup Lovers
For those who love heat, you can add jalapeños or extra chili powder. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to your bowl before serving it. This gives a nice kick to this amazing soup.
Different Cheese Option for Your Enchilada Soup
If you don’t like Monterey Jack, you could use cheddar or pepper jack. You can also use a mixture of cheeses to create a more unique taste.
Adding More Items to Your Own Enchilada Soup
There are lots of other things to add in. Sweet corn or black beans can also be included. This makes the soup even more interesting. You can make your own personal version of chili’s chicken enchilada soup.
The Appeal of Comfort Food
There is something special about comfort food, like this style of chicken enchilada soup. It brings back good feelings and memories. It is satisfying and enjoyable.
The Emotional Connection With Chicken Enchilada Soup
Comfort food connects to happy moments in our lives. It might remind us of a cozy dinner at home. It can also recall fond memories of family or friends.
A Go-To Choice
Because of this, it is a go-to choice when we need something comforting. This particular soup often fits the bill. It provides warmth and a sense of well-being.
Perfect for Any Day
This soup is not just for cold days. It can be good on any day. If you need a treat, or a satisfying lunch, it will do the trick. It is truly a meal that people appreciate.
Exploring Different Soup Styles
If you like the chili’s chicken enchilada soup, you might want to try other kinds of soups. There are so many different types out there. It is interesting to explore and find out which ones you enjoy the most.
Types of Soup
Here are some ideas of different soup types that you could try:
- Creamy tomato soup
- Hearty vegetable soup
- Classic chicken noodle soup
- Spicy tortilla soup
- Rich beef stew
Similar Flavors to Chicken Enchilada Soup
You can find similar flavors in other cuisines. Maybe you can try a Mexican Pozole. You might also enjoy a Southwest style chicken soup. Exploring new flavors will make your culinary journey more interesting.
Making it Your Own
You can also try making your own soups at home. Experiment with different ingredients and spices. It can be a lot of fun. You can start with a base, such as chicken broth. Then, you can build up the flavors with your favorite items.
Final Thoughts on Chili’s Chicken Enchilada Soup
Chili’s chicken enchilada soup is a fantastic meal that everyone can enjoy. It is delicious, easy to make, and comforting. You can make it at home, or try it at a restaurant. Either way, it is sure to be a delightful experience. This soup stands out for its balanced flavor profile and hearty ingredients.
A Versatile Dish for Chicken Enchilada Soup Fans
It is very versatile, so it can be modified to fit many needs. You can adjust the spices, or add in more items. You can also serve it in a variety of ways. This makes it a great choice for many different kinds of eaters.
Enjoy the Flavors of Chili’s Enchilada Soup
Take the time to savor the flavors of this soup. Allow yourself to relax and enjoy each spoonful. It’s more than just a meal, it’s an experience. This chili’s style chicken enchilada soup is one you’ll want to make time and time again.
Try This Chicken Enchilada Soup Today
Whether you are a soup expert, or just want something simple and good, give this a try. You might find that it is a new favorite dish for you and your family. It is worth the effort and you will not regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many calories are in a bowl of chili’s chicken enchilada soup?
The number of calories in a bowl of chili’s chicken enchilada soup can vary. It depends on the ingredients used and the serving size. A typical serving contains roughly 300 to 400 calories. Always check the specific nutritional information from the restaurant.
What kind of soup do they have at Chili’s?
Chili’s offers various soups, including their popular chicken enchilada soup. They often feature seasonal soups too. Their standard menu may offer things like loaded baked potato soup or a classic chili as well. The specific soups may vary by location and time of year.
How do you thicken soup with masa harina?
To thicken soup with masa harina, mix a couple of tablespoons of it with a little cold water to form a smooth paste. Ensure there are no lumps. Then, slowly whisk the paste into your simmering soup. Continue to stir until the soup thickens to your desired consistency. Be sure to let it simmer for a few minutes to cook the masa harina through.
Does Chili’s have enchiladas?
While chili’s chicken enchilada soup is a popular menu item, Chili’s also offers traditional enchilada plates. Their enchilada choices may vary. However, they typically include cheese, chicken, or beef enchiladas. These are usually served with rice and beans.
Print
Chili’s Style Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of homemade Chili’s style Chicken Enchilada Soup. This recipe features tender chicken, melty cheese, and a blend of savory spices in a rich and flavorful broth. It’s the perfect Tex-Mex comfort food for any day!
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
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4 cups chicken broth
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1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1/4 cup masa harina
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1/4 cup water
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
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1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
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Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, tortilla strips
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
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Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
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In a small bowl, whisk together masa harina and water until smooth.
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Slowly pour the masa harina mixture into the simmering soup, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
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Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the pot and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until soup has thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
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Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, and tortilla strips.
Notes
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Variations: For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with 1 (15 ounce) can of rinsed and drained black beans. You can also add other vegetables, like corn or bell peppers.
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Preparation Tips: Use a rotisserie chicken to make preparation quicker. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before adding the cheese. Make sure to slowly incorporate the masa harina mixture and whisk it vigorously to avoid lumps.
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Serving Tips: This soup is great served with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips. Consider a squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten up the flavors.
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Intolerances and Allergies: This recipe is gluten-free, but be sure to check the label on your masa harina, to be sure. This recipe contains dairy (cheese), so adjust accordingly for lactose intolerance.
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Taste Preferences: Adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and the chili powder. Use low sodium broth to control the amount of salt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3O minutes
- Category: Main Course, Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 750 milligrams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Cholesterol: 80 milligrams