Chicken Enchilada Soup

My Comfort Food Escape: Chicken Enchilada Soup

Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, soccer practice, and everything in between, finding time for myself often feels like a luxury. But there’s one thing that consistently grounds me, that offers a much-needed escape from the chaos: cooking. And nothing soothes my soul quite like a big, warm bowl of my Chicken Enchilada Soup.

This recipe isn't just about sustenance; it's about creating a moment of peace in the midst of the storm. The aroma alone—a rich blend of cumin, chili powder, and simmering chicken—fills my kitchen with warmth and comfort. It’s a sensory experience that transports me, even if just for a few minutes, to a place of tranquility. I find immense satisfaction in transforming simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful meal that my family devours. It's more than just a recipe; it's a ritual, a connection to something wholesome and comforting in the midst of a busy life.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. It’s a one-pot wonder, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor. I often find myself making a large batch on the weekend, enough for leftovers throughout the week. This allows me to grab a quick and satisfying meal even on my busiest days, saving precious time and energy. The vibrant colors—the deep red of the enchilada sauce, the bright green of the chilies, the creamy white of the Velveeta—make it visually appealing as well, a small detail that elevates the overall dining experience. Even on those days when I feel completely overwhelmed, the simple act of preparing and enjoying this soup provides a much-needed sense of calm and control. The warmth of the soup, both literally and figuratively, melts away the stress and leaves me feeling replenished and ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

What makes this soup even more special is its adaptability. I often experiment with different toppings—sometimes adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or even experimenting with different types of cheese. I’ve discovered that the flavors blend beautifully with other ingredients, offering endless possibilities for customization. And that adaptability mirrors life itself: we can always find ways to adapt, to adjust to circumstances, and to create something delicious even amidst the unexpected. This soup is a testament to that. It’s a constant in my ever-changing world, a reliable source of comfort and satisfaction, a small act of self-care that I can always rely on to bring a little bit of joy to my chaotic but beautiful life.

Beyond the personal satisfaction, this soup is a hit with my family. My kids love it, and even my husband, a notoriously picky eater, raves about it. It's a dish that brings us together, a shared experience around the dinner table that fosters connection and creates lasting memories. In a world where it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily life, this Chicken Enchilada Soup is a small but significant reminder to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and savor the moments that truly matter. It's a testament to the power of food to nourish not just the body, but also the soul.

Ingredients I use that you may need to locate:

• Masa Harina: This corn flour gives the soup its uniquely creamy texture. If you can’t find it in your local grocery store, you can often find it at Latin American markets or online.
• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: These add a smoky depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Look for them in the canned goods section of your grocery store.
• Good Quality Enchilada Sauce: Don't skimp on the sauce! A flavorful enchilada sauce is crucial for the overall taste of the soup. Experiment with different brands to find your favorite.

Tips for success:

• Don't rush the masa mixture: Take your time whisking the masa harina into the chicken broth. This ensures a smooth, lump-free soup.
• Adjust the spice level to your liking: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more!
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together overnight, creating an even richer and more complex taste.

So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life, remember the simple comfort of a warm bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup. It might be just the escape you need.

Step-by-step

• Heat a large dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add olive oil.
• Once oil is hot, add onion and saute until soft.
• Add cumin, garlic powder chili powder cayenne, salt and pepper. Stir until spices coat the onions and are fragrant.
• Meanwhile, in a large measuring cup (or small bowl), combine the masa with 2 cups of chicken stock. Whisk constantly until it become thick, about two minutes.
• To the soup pot, add in remaining chicken stock, enchilada sauce, canned tomatoes, and canned green chilies.
• Slowly whisk in masa-stock mixture. Stir until soup becomes thick.
• Stir in shredded chicken and Velveeta. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
• Top with your choice of diced jalapenos, cilantro, and sour cream.