This Chicken Enchilada Soup brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients for a comforting meal that’s paleo and Whole30-friendly. With tender shredded chicken, smoky spices, and a hint of creaminess, it’s a soup that satisfies your cravings without compromising on nutrition. Perfect for chilly nights or meal prep, this soup is easy to make and even easier to love. Garnish it with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and avocado for a vibrant and delicious finish. Whether you’re on a health-focused journey or simply seeking a flavorful dinner option, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and avocado for topping
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Stir in the coconut milk if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and avocado slices.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 275 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Chicken Enchilada Soup: A Flavorful and Wholesome Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave a heartwarming meal, nothing beats a bowl of savory, homemade soup. Enter this Chicken Enchilada Soup, a vibrant and wholesome dish packed with bold spices, tender chicken, and nourishing ingredients that are both paleo and Whole30-compliant. This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition and comfort that will make your taste buds dance and your body feel good. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a family, this soup delivers big on flavor without compromising on health. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this Chicken Enchilada Soup a standout and why it should be a staple in your recipe collection.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind Chicken Enchilada Soup
This dish draws inspiration from the classic Mexican enchilada, a corn tortilla filled with meat, cheese, and other savory ingredients, then smothered in a rich red sauce. While enchiladas are undeniably delicious, they can be heavy and labor-intensive to prepare. That’s where this soup comes in—it captures all the signature flavors of enchiladas but in a lighter, easier, and more health-conscious form. By simmering chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices together, you get a deeply flavored broth reminiscent of a traditional enchilada sauce. The result is a soup that’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a wholesome meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Health-Friendly and Diet-Compliant
This recipe is not only paleo and Whole30-friendly but also gluten-free, grain-free, and dairy-free (with the option to add coconut milk for creaminess). It’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to eat clean. - Rich, Bold Flavors
The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, smoky paprika, and chili powder creates a deep, complex flavor profile. Each spoonful bursts with warmth and spice, making it a treat for your taste buds. - High in Protein and Nutrients
With lean chicken as the star ingredient, this soup is a fantastic source of high-quality protein. The addition of bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions provides a healthy dose of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. - Quick and Easy to Prepare
While the flavors are impressive, the process is simple. With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. - Meal-Prep Friendly
This soup stores beautifully, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking. Simply portion it into containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
- Chicken: Lean chicken breasts or thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Bell Peppers: These vibrant veggies are packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy immune system.
- Garlic and Onion: Both are known for their immune-boosting properties and ability to enhance the flavor of any dish.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: A rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health.
- Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, and Smoked Paprika): These not only add depth of flavor but also provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Coconut Milk (Optional): A great dairy-free alternative that adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a smoky depth that elevates the flavor of the soup.
- Shred the Chicken Thoroughly: Shredded chicken absorbs the broth better, making each bite flavorful.
- Customize the Heat Level: Add more or fewer jalapeños depending on your spice tolerance.
- Don’t Skip the Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and jalapeños not only enhance the presentation but also add bursts of fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
While this soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, it pairs beautifully with:
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option.
- Tortilla Chips: If you’re not strict about Whole30, they add a delightful crunch.
- A Side Salad: A fresh green salad with avocado and lime dressing complements the bold flavors.
- Guacamole: Adds creaminess and richness to every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Perfect for Any Season: While it’s particularly comforting during fall and winter, the bright, zesty flavors make it enjoyable year-round.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the bold yet approachable flavors.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding extra vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or even using different proteins like turkey or pork.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second increments until hot.
Conclusion
This Chicken Enchilada Soup is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or bland. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that nourishes the body and satisfies the soul. Whether you’re following a paleo, Whole30, or simply clean-eating lifestyle, this soup fits perfectly into your meal rotation. Give it a try, and don’t forget to garnish it generously for that perfect finishing touch. One bowl is never enough—your taste buds will thank you!
