A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Dish
Warm, hearty, and loaded with rich Tex-Mex flavors, Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is a perfect recipe for cozy dinners or family gatherings. This creamy soup combines tender chicken with the tangy zest of green enchilada sauce and salsa verde, creating a luscious, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Let’s dive into how you can bring this flavor-packed meal to your table with minimal effort, thanks to the magic of your slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Set-and-Forget Simplicity: The crockpot does all the work, making this a great option for busy days.
Tex-Mex Goodness: Bold flavors from green enchilada sauce and salsa verde give the soup a deliciously tangy kick.
Creamy and Comforting: Cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and half-and-half add a velvety texture.
Customizable Toppings: Add avocado, cilantro, or sour cream for extra flair.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients
Chicken (2.5 lbs): Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a tender, protein-rich base.
Green Enchilada Sauce (28 oz): Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the soup.
Chicken Broth (24 oz): Creates a flavorful base for the soup.
Creamy Additions
Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream (1 cup): Makes the soup rich and creamy.
Monterey Jack Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully, adding a mild, creamy flavor.
Cream Cheese (4 oz): Adds extra creaminess and tang.
Flavor Boosters
Green Salsa (4 oz): Enhances the zesty, tangy flavors. Add more to taste.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to taste.
Optional Toppings
Avocado: For a creamy, fresh contrast.
Cilantro: Adds a burst of herbal freshness.
Green Onions: Provides a bit of crunch and mild onion flavor.
Sour Cream: Enhances the creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slow Cook the Chicken
Place chicken breasts or thighs in the crockpot.
Pour the green enchilada sauce and chicken broth over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Add Creamy Ingredients
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Stir in Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, half-and-half (or heavy cream), and salsa verde.
Continue cooking on low, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated.
- Season and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, and salsa verde as needed.
- Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Top with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for added texture and flavor.
Pro Tips for Recipe Success
- Choose the Right Chicken
Breasts: Leaner and slightly firmer texture.
Thighs: Juicier and richer flavor.
- Control the Spice
Adjust the heat level by adding more green salsa or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a spicier kick.
- Cheese Perfection
Shred your own cheese for a smoother melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that may affect the texture.
- Thickening the Soup
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make It Low-Carb
Skip tortilla chips or bread and load up on avocado and cheese toppings for a keto-friendly meal.
Serving Suggestions
Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Add a scoop to make the soup more filling.
Warm Bread: Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting side.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the creaminess of the soup.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freeze: This soup freezes well! Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, without toppings)
Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Fat: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~8g
Why Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Is a Must-Try
This dish combines bold Tex-Mex flavors with the creamy indulgence of comfort food, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup fits every occasion. The customizable toppings make it versatile, and the creamy, cheesy base ensures every bite is satisfying and delicious.
Enjoy this cozy, flavorful soup with your favorite toppings, and let the crockpot do all the hard work!