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### Instructions:
**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion** and sauté for about **5 minutes**, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another **30 seconds** until fragrant.
Next, add the **cooked, shredded chicken** to the pot, stirring it into the onions and garlic. If you’re starting with raw chicken, simply cook it in the pot until browned on both sides, then shred it with a fork or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
**Step 2: Add the Tomatoes, Beans, and Corn**
To the pot, add the **diced tomatoes with green chilies**, **diced green chilies** (if using), **black beans**, and **corn**. Stir to combine all the ingredients. The combination of tomatoes and beans creates a hearty, flavorful base for the soup.
**Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings**
Pour in the **chicken broth** and stir in the **chili powder**, **ground cumin**, and **paprika**. These spices will infuse the soup with the smoky, warm flavors that are characteristic of enchiladas. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
Bring the soup to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. Let it simmer for about **10-15 minutes**, stirring occasionally.
**Step 4: Creamy Texture**
Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have come together, add the **cream cheese** to the pot. Stir it in until the cream cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy. Pour in the **heavy cream** (or half-and-half) and stir to combine. This will give the soup its rich, comforting texture.
**Step 5: Add the Cheese**
Once the soup is creamy and smooth, stir in the **shredded cheddar cheese** (or Mexican cheese blend). Let the cheese melt into the soup, creating an extra layer of creamy goodness.
**Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with **fresh cilantro** for a burst of color and freshness. For added crunch and texture, top with **tortilla strips** or **crushed tortilla chips**. These add a delightful contrast to the creamy soup, mimicking the crunch of a classic enchilada.
### Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion:
– **Hearty and Filling**: The combination of shredded chicken, beans, corn, and cheese makes this soup incredibly filling and satisfying. It’s a complete meal in a bowl!
– **Cheesy and Creamy**: The cream cheese and cheddar cheese elevate this soup, giving it that luscious, velvety texture that makes every bite feel indulgent.
– **Perfect for Meal Prep**: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to **3 days** and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner. It’s a great make-ahead meal that can save you time during a busy week.
– **Versatile**: You can customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Want more spice? Add extra chili powder or a diced jalapeño. Prefer a vegetarian version? Skip the chicken and add extra beans and veggies.
### Tips for Success:
– **Use Rotisserie Chicken**: For an even quicker version of this soup, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup for a time-saving shortcut without compromising flavor.
– **Adjust the Heat**: If you like your soup with a little kick, add extra **jalapeños** or a splash of **hot sauce** to the broth. You can also substitute the diced green chilies for **pickled jalapeños** for an added burst of flavor.
– **Thicken It Up**: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add some **mashed potatoes** or **tortilla chips** to the soup as it simmers, allowing them to break down and thicken the broth.
– **Make It Dairy-Free**: To make this soup dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with **coconut milk** or **dairy-free cream cheese**, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the topping.
### Conclusion:
**Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup** is a warm, comforting, and flavor-packed meal that combines the best of a chicken enchilada in soup form. With tender chicken, a rich, creamy broth, and the signature spices of enchiladas, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or taking it to a potluck, this soup is sure to please a crowd. Plus, with the ease of a one-pot meal, you’ll love how simple it is to make. Enjoy a bowl of this creamy, cheesy goodness, and feel like you’re enjoying an enchilada in every bite!
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