Advertisement
There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that brings comfort to your soul, especially when it’s packed with bold, rich flavors. Keto chicken enchilada soup is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory Mexican-inspired spices. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or just looking for a hearty meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love Keto Chicken Enchilada Soup
This soup is not only delicious but also fits seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: With minimal carbs, this soup is perfect for staying on track.
- Packed with Flavor: Enchilada sauce, spices, and cheese come together for a bold taste.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients, you can whip it up in under an hour.
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with chicken, cheese, and veggies, it’s a meal in itself.
Ingredients for Keto Chicken Enchilada Soup
Main Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
Garlic cloves (minced) | 2-3 |
Ground cumin | 1/2 tsp |
Masa harina (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Chicken stock/broth (low sodium) | 3 cups |
Cooked chicken (shredded) | 2 cups |
Enchilada sauce | 14 oz |
Black beans (rinsed and drained) | 15 oz can |
Corn kernels (frozen) | 1 cup |
Diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred) | 15 oz can |
Green chiles (chopped) | 4 oz |
Cream cheese (room temp, cubed) | 4 oz |
Sharp cheddar cheese (grated) | 4 oz (1 cup) |
Monterey Jack cheese (grated) | 4 oz (1 cup) |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Base
- Sprinkle in the masa harina (if using) and cook for another minute to form a paste.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken stock, ensuring the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the remaining chicken stock to create the soup base.
3. Add the Main Ingredients
- Add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, black beans, enchilada sauce, green chiles, and frozen corn.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Incorporate the Creaminess
- Stir in the cubed cream cheese, letting it melt into the soup.
- Add the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Best Toppings for Keto Chicken Enchilada Soup
Topping | Why It Works |
---|---|
Avocado slices | Adds creamy richness |
Fresh cilantro | Brightens the flavors |
Sour cream | Enhances creaminess |
Jalapeño slices | Adds a spicy kick |
Lime wedges | Provides zesty acidity |
Tips for Perfect Keto Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more green chiles or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Blend for a Smoother Texture: Use an immersion blender for a creamier soup.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: It thickens the soup and enhances the flavor.
Creative Variations
1. Vegetarian Option
- Skip the chicken and add extra beans, zucchini, or mushrooms.
2. Dairy-Free Version
- Replace cream cheese and cheese with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
3. Spicy Twist
- Add cayenne pepper or diced habaneros for more heat.
4. Make It Chunky
- Add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach for more texture.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Keto Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up every last bite.
- As Leftovers: The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Advertisement
2. What can I use instead of masa harina?
Omit it for a lower-carb version, or use almond flour as a substitute.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients except the cheese in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the cheeses during the last 30 minutes.
5. What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Pepper Jack, Colby, or Gouda are great alternatives.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | ~400 |
Protein | ~25g |
Fat | ~30g |
Carbohydrates | ~7g |
Fiber | ~2g |
Bring Warmth and Flavor to Your Table
Keto chicken enchilada soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting bowl of joy. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a quick, hearty meal, this soup delivers big on flavor without compromising your low-carb goals.
Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients, grab your pot, and dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness of keto chicken enchilada soup today!
PrintKeto Chicken Enchilada Soup: A Comforting Low-Carb Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4–6
Description
Warm, comforting, and bursting with bold flavors, this keto chicken enchilada soup is a creamy, low-carb delight. With tender chicken, rich enchilada spices, and plenty of cheese, it’s the perfect cozy meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 14 oz enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 oz) green chiles, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika for extra spice
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Build the Base:
- Pour in the chicken broth, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and green chiles.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Chicken:
- Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken.
- Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate the Creaminess:
- Add the cubed cream cheese to the pot, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
- Gradually add the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until the soup is smooth and creamy.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
-
Notes
- For a thicker soup, blend half the soup mixture using an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
- To keep it low-carb, skip optional ingredients like beans or corn.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired