Green Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 360 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 (11 ounce) can fiesta corn
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can low-sodium chicken stock or broth
• 2 (15 ounce) cans green enchilada sauce
• 6 tomatillos, hulled and chopped
• 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced
• 1 small yellow squash, halved lengthwise and sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• sliced jalapenos (optional)
• corn tortilla chips (optional)
• lime slices (optional)

Directions

1. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add corn, chicken stock or broth, enchilada sauce, tomatillos, chopped green chilies, chopped onion, bay leaves, garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and cook on Low for 3 hours.
3. Add chopped cilantro, zucchini, and yellow squash. Cover and cook for an additional 3 hours on Low.
4. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred the meat using two forks.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir.
6. When ready to serve, remove the bay leaves and stir in the sour cream.
7. Top each bowl with 2 tablespoons of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Optionally, serve with corn tortilla chips, sliced jalapeos, and lime slices.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 371
• Fat: 15g (20% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 7g (34% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 102mg (34% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 955mg (42% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 24g (9% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 36g (71% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 59mg (65% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 187mg (14% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (17% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 946mg (20% Daily Value)

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting, tangy, and savory Mexican dish, made famous for its rich green enchilada sauce base, tender chicken, and a combination of fresh vegetables. It's an excellent choice for those who enjoy a hearty, flavorful soup with a kick. Typically prepared in a slow cooker, this dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal.

History of Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

While the exact origins of Green Chicken Enchilada Soup remain unclear, it is rooted in traditional Mexican cuisine. Enchiladas, a staple of Mexican cooking, have been enjoyed for centuries. The use of green enchilada sauce, made from tomatillos and green chilies, adds a distinctive tang that makes this soup stand out. It is believed to have been created as a way to combine the classic flavors of enchiladas into a more convenient and comforting soup form. The dish is a modern take on Mexican comfort food and continues to gain popularity in various regions of the United States.

Regional Variations

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is often found in Mexican cuisine, particularly in northern Mexico and the Southwestern United States. In the US, it is a beloved dish in states like Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, where green chilies and tomatillos are common ingredients. Some variations include adding beans or corn, while others may feature additional spices like oregano or cilantro. In certain regions, the soup may be served with extra toppings such as avocado slices or shredded lettuce for added freshness.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup shares similarities with other Mexican soups like Chicken Tortilla Soup or Sopa de Pollo, but its defining feature is the use of green enchilada sauce made from tomatillos. This gives the soup a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other chicken-based soups, which typically rely on red or clear broths. Additionally, the inclusion of ingredients like zucchini, yellow squash, and sour cream adds a creamy and vegetable-rich texture that isn't commonly found in more traditional chicken tortilla soups.

Where to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a versatile dish that can be served at various occasions. Its perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or as a starter for Mexican-themed meals. In Mexican restaurants, it is often featured as a special or a signature soup on the menu. Its a great option for cold weather or anytime you crave something warm and flavorful. It can also be a great dish to serve at a potluck or a gathering of friends, as it can be made in large quantities and is easy to prepare ahead of time.

Interesting Facts

• The tomatillo, a key ingredient in green enchilada sauce, is often referred to as a "husk tomato" because of its papery outer layer.
• The green enchilada sauce in this soup is made from a mixture of roasted tomatillos and green chilies, creating a flavorful and tangy base.
• Enchiladas, the precursor to this soup, were originally created by rolling corn tortillas around fillings like meat or cheese, then smothering them in sauce.
• Slow-cooking the soup allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, with the chicken becoming tender and easy to shred.
• This soup can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, making it both a convenient and flexible recipe.

FAQ about Green Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe