Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that comes together in a flash, let me introduce you to my go-to recipe: Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup. This delightful soup is not only creamy and rich but also packed with wholesome ingredients like shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over. I promise, once you try it, it’ll become a family favorite!

This soup has a special place in my heart because it’s so versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re having a casual dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. And the best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot meal can be whipped up in just half an hour—perfect for those busy nights!
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will love this soup.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and store it for later. Just reheat and enjoy!
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings to make each bowl unique! Think fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or crispy tortilla strips.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and cheeses creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delicious soup. You’ll find everything you need to make Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup right here!

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced, or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 cup masa harina
• 3 cups chicken stock or broth (low sodium)

For the Filling

• 2 cups cooked shredded or chopped chicken (I just use a rotisserie chicken)
• 14 ounces enchilada sauce (I used O Organics Enchilada Sauce)
• 15 ounce can of black beans (rinsed well and drained)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 15 ounces can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted tomatoes are delicious in this recipe)
• 4 ounces chopped green chiles
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Creamy Finish

• 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature, cubed)
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (grated, about 1 cup)
• 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese (grated, about 1 cup)

Variations

One of the best things about Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use cooked turkey or even shredded beef if that’s what you have on hand.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick!
• Create a vegetarian version: Simply replace the chicken with more beans or lentils.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add your diced onions and let them cook until they turn translucent—about 4 minutes. This step is important because sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, toss in minced garlic and ground cumin. Stir them together for about a minute until fragrant. This will infuse your soup with wonderful flavors right from the start!

Step 3: Incorporate Masa Harina

Now it’s time to add masa harina to the pot. Stir it well for another minute before adding one cup of chicken stock. This will help create that deliciously creamy base we all love.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Gradually stir in the remaining chicken stock along with shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, black beans, enchilada sauce, green chiles, corn, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses

To finish it off beautifully, add room-temperature cream cheese first and stir until it melts into the soup. Then gradually mix in the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese by handfuls—this ensures they melt smoothly into your flavorful concoction!

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Your Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup is now ready! Serve it immediately with all your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro or avocado slices. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup

Making this delicious soup is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your cooking game even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and spices enhance the flavor immensely. When using fresh produce, your soup will taste vibrant and full of life.
• Cook the Onions Until Translucent: This step is crucial for building a solid flavor base. By softening the onions first, you unlock their natural sweetness that adds depth to your soup.
• Stir Frequently While Cooking: This helps prevent sticking and burning, ensuring even cooking. It also allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Customize Your Heat Level: Depending on your family’s spice tolerance, adjust the amount of green chiles or add some jalapeños for extra kick. This way, everyone can enjoy the soup at their preferred heat level!
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with garnishes! Adding things like avocado slices or crispy tortilla strips can make each bowl uniquely delightful and visually appealing.

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serving this hearty soup is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present it beautifully and make mealtime special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness and flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast that balances the spiciness perfectly.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens up all the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes

• Homemade Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with this savory soup, perfect for soaking up every delicious drop.
• Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside fresh salsa make for a delightful appetizer that everyone will love.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only tastes fantastic but also adds an extra layer of texture and flavor when enjoyed alongside the enchilada soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup will not only be comforting but also an impressive dish that brings everyone together at the table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can be made in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with beans or lentils for a vegetarian version that’s still hearty and delicious.

How spicy is Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The spiciness can be adjusted by using mild or spicy enchilada sauce. You can also add jalapeños or reduce the amount of green chiles if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use other types of cheese in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for creaminess. Just make sure they melt well!

Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?

You can replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Also, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!

Final Thoughts

This Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings the family together. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a treasured recipe in your home. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Gather your loved ones, serve it up hot, and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!