Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful, hearty dish that brings the comforting flavors of traditional enchiladas into a nourishing soup form. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, spicy broth, this recipe offers a satisfying meal without the carbs that typically come with tortillas. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for busy days ahead.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This low carb chicken enchilada soup is a total game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of Mexican cuisine while maintaining a low-carb lifestyle. The combination of spices creates a flavorful profile that dances on your palate, while the chicken provides a protein boost that keeps you full and satisfied. Plus, this soup comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s ideal for those on keto or paleo diets, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on taste while sticking to your health goals.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred it and add it to the soup for a quick meal.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the chili powder and cumin based on your heat preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a bit longer will deepen the flavors, so don’t rush this step!
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the base of the soup in advance by chopping your vegetables and measuring out your spices. You can store the chopped ingredients in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Additionally, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for black beans or chickpeas for a protein-rich vegetarian version.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in zucchini, spinach, or kale for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love spice, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb chicken enchilada soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. For an extra touch, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this soup with a refreshing lime-infused sparkling water or a light beer to complement the spices. For a side, consider serving it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, a slice of low carb cheesecake would be a perfect finish.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze the soup, make sure to use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup after freezing.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A sturdy pot is essential for cooking the soup evenly.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle: For stirring and serving the soup.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this soup vegan, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives. Always check the labels for any pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, you can use fresh corn and tomatoes instead of canned for a burst of seasonal flavor. During the winter months, consider adding hearty root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and warmth.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken but ensure it’s fully cooked and shred it before adding it to the soup.
- How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for three months.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How To Make Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Soup
Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Soup
Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful, hearty dish that brings the comforting flavors of traditional enchiladas into a nourishing soup form.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Avocado slices, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot, along with the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and lime wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 328Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 101mgSodium 1148mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 6gSugar 5gProtein 40g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making low carb chicken enchilada soup is not only a delicious choice for a healthy meal but also a comforting option that the whole family will love. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, this soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Give it a try, and savor every spoonful!