Chicken enchilada soup is a delicious, hearty meal that can be enjoyed throughout the year. But what should you serve alongside it?
Here are three of our favorite side dishes to serve with chicken enchilada soup.
What is chicken enchilada soup, and what does chicken enchilada soup taste like?
Chicken enchilada soup is a hearty and flavorful comfort food that combines all the classic flavors of traditional chicken enchiladas with a warm and comforting broth.
The flavor profile of this dish typically consists of a blend of tomato, garlic, onion, jalapeno pepper, cumin, chili powder and oregano. It may also possess a variety of other herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, depending on individual preference.
The combination of these ingredients creates an incredibly rich and savory broth that will tantalize your taste buds.
The main ingredient in any chicken enchilada soup is typically shredded chicken breast, which gives the soup its depth of flavor. Other ingredients, such as black beans, corn, peppers, and onions, are often added to provide additional flavor and texture.
The final result is a delicious soup with an incredibly rich and flavorful broth that has just the right amount of zesty heat from the jalapeno pepper.
The perfect balance between all the flavors creates a truly delicious meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served over rice for an even heartier dish.
35+ Amazing sides to serve with chicken enchilada soup
1. Cornbread
Cornbread is a traditional side dish that goes great with any kind of soup or chili. It’s fast and easy to make, and it’s always a sensation with kids and adults alike. Serve your cornbread warm, straight out of the oven, with a dollop of butter on top.
For an extra special treat, try adding a little bit of shredded cheese to the batter before baking.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious, healthy option that pairs well with chicken enchilada soup. Simply toss some halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil and sea salt, then roast in a 400-degree oven for 20-25 minutes.
They’re the perfect crispy, salty complement to a bowl of warm soup.
Know More: What to Serve With French Onion Soup
3. Crispy Tortilla Strips
If you’re finding for a little bit of texture in your meal, crispy tortilla strips are the way to go.
Simply cut some tortillas into strips, brush them with a little bit of oil, and bake in the oven until crispy. Top with a sprinkle of salt and serve alongside your soup.
4. Green Salad
A green salad is a perfect way to add a pop of color and a little bit of freshness to your meal. For an extra flavorful salad, add some diced avocado, crumbled cheese, and a homemade dressing made with olive oil and lime juice.
5. Fruit salad
For something light and refreshing, try serving fruit salad on the side.
A mix of diced apples, pears, and oranges tossed with lemon juice and honey makes a tasty and healthy accompaniment to chicken enchilada soup. Plus, the kids will love it!
Know more: What to Serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A classic choice for a hearty meal, grilled cheese sandwiches goes great with chicken enchilada soup.
7. Nachos
Add crunch to your soup by serving it with nachos! The combination is sure to be delicious.
8. Quesadillas
Another classic Mexican dish, quesadillas are the perfect accompaniment to chicken enchilada soup for a full-flavored meal.
9. Tortilla Chips
Enjoy chips and salsa as your side dish when you serve this heartwarming soup!
10. Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels make an excellent appetizer or snack alongside your main course of soup!
11. Guacamole
Add a bit of creaminess to the meal with guacamole – it’s always a hit!
It can be employed as a topping for your chicken enchilada soup or as an appetizer alongside the soup for an extra savory kick.
12. Rice and Beans
Rice and beans is a classic Mexican side dish that is sure to complement your soup perfectly.
Mexican rice is often spicier than traditional white rice, so it adds extra flavor and heat to the chicken enchilada soup while still providing a perfect base for its ingredients.
13. Baked Potato
A comforting baked potato will provide just the right amount of starch as an accompaniment to your chicken enchilada soup.
Know More: What to serve with Sweet Potato Soup
14. Enchiladas
If you want some adventure, why not try making some enchiladas to go along with your soup?
15. Salads
Lighten up the meal with a simple salad – green or otherwise!
16. Cheese Fries
The ultimate comfort food, cheese fries are an excellent side dish for this soup.
17. Biscuits
Flaky biscuits add a nice touch to your meal and make it extra special.
18. French Fries
A classic favorite, french fries can easily be enjoyed as a side to chicken enchilada soup.
19. Garlic Bread
Perfect for dipping in your soup, garlic bread is sure to be a blow to everyone!
20. Plantains
Plantains are a classic Latin American ingredient that pairs well with chicken enchilada soup due to their sweet, ripe flavor helping to balance out the spiciness of the dish.
21. Soft Tacos
Soft tacos filled with your favorite toppings can be combined easily with any type of chicken enchilada soup for an all-in-one meal that will leave you satisfied every time!
22. Fried Tortilla Strips
Fried tortilla strips (recipe) make for an excellent topping or side dish when served alongside your steaming hot chicken enchilada soup bowl – they provide just enough crunch and saltiness without overpowering the dish itself!
23. Salsa
Salsa provides a bright and flavorful kick that pairs exceptionally well with any kind of Mexican-inspired recipe – including chicken enchilada soup! Use your favorite variety for added spice factor if desired!
24. Avocado Slices/Cubed Avocado
Slice up some avocados or cut them into cubes (depending on preference) to add freshness and healthy fats to top off your bowl of hearty but delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup!
25. Sour Cream & Cheese Garnishments
Finish off each bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup with dollops of sour cream, shredded cheese or crumbled queso fresco – these garnishments will add additional texture and flavor combinations that you won’t want to miss out on!
26. Lime Wedges
Lime wedges can be squeezed over the top just before enjoying your Chicken Enchiladas Soup for added brightness and tanginess!
27. Chili Peppers
If you like it spicy, adding chili peppers will definitely give your Chicken Enchiladas Soup an extra kick – use whole jalapeños, serranos, or even fresh diced habaneros!
28. Whole Wheat Tortillas
Whole wheat tortillas are both nutritious and delicious, plus they’re perfect for scooping up every last bit of Chicken Enchiladas Soup from inside your bowl!
29. Cilantro
Cilantro is a great way to add herby and fresh flavor to your Chicken Enchiladas Soup – sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro over the top just before serving!
30. Greek Yogurt
To lighten up the creamy texture of your Chicken Enchiladas Soup, replace heavy cream with lower-fat Greek yogurt – it’s still rich and delicious. It can be garnished with additional toppings like cilantro and lime wedges!
31. Black Beans
Creamy black beans are a fantastic addition to any Mexican-inspired dish, including chicken enchilada soup! They’re high in fiber and protein, plus they provide an intense depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
32. Corn
Sweet, juicy corn is always an excellent addition to any soup dish – it adds a sweet and earthy taste that pairs well with the spiciness of chicken enchilada soup!
33. Tomatoes
Fresh tomatoes provide a burst of color and flavor to your chicken enchilada soup – try diced tomatoes or even roasted cherry tomatoes for a unique twist!
34. Jalapeno Peppers
Add some heat to your chicken enchilada soup by adding jalapeno peppers! You can use fresh or jarred varieties depending on how spicy you like your food.
35. Pico de Gallo
A classic Mexican condiment, pico de Gallo (recipe) pairs well with chicken enchilada soup for an added crunch and freshness – use your own homemade version or purchase a store-bought variety to top off your dish!
36. Chicharrones
Add some texture and saltiness to your chicken enchilada soup with chicharrones (also known as pork rinds). These fried pork skins provide a crispy coating that can be sprinkled over the bowl of soup just before eating.
What is enchilada soup made of?
Enchilada soup usually combines a variety of ingredients to create its signature flavor. These typically include tomatoes, green chilies, chicken or beef broth, corn tortillas, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and oregano.
This hearty combination is then topped with shredded cheese and other garnishes such as sour cream and diced avocado. Some recipes may also call for additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
Enchilada soup can be enjoyed as an entrée on its own or paired with your favorite Mexican sides like refried beans or Spanish rice.
For a truly memorable meal, try making your own homemade enchilada-style toppings like salsa fresca or guacamole.
Best toppings for chicken enchilada soup
- – Sour cream
- – Avocado
- – Fresh cilantro
- – Lime wedges
- – Chopped red onion
- – Diced jalapeño peppers
- – Chopped green onions
- – Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco)
- – Crumbled corn tortilla chips or strips
- – Sliced black olives
- – Salsa or hot sauce of your choice.
- – Diced tomatoes
- – Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
- – Sliced radishes (optional)
- – Roasted pumpkin seeds (optional)
- – A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional).
What are the best flavors to go with chicken enchilada soup?
The best flavors to go with chicken enchilada soup are those that highlight the Mexican-inspired elements of the dish. Traditional ingredients like diced onion, jalapenos, garlic, and cumin can all be added to give the soup a robust flavor profile.
Chili powder and freshly chopped cilantro also work great for adding a little extra kick. For more of a creamy touch, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cheese just before serving.
To make it even heartier and more filling, try incorporating some cooked beans into the mix.
Lastly, don’t forget about the garnishes! A dollop of guacamole or some diced tomatoes sprinkled on top makes for a perfect finishing touch. Enjoy!
How do you jazz up chicken enchilada soup?
One way to jazz up chicken enchilada soup is to add some extra peppers and spices. For instance, you can add diced jalapeños or habaneros for some added heat, as well as cumin and chili powder for a smoky flavor.
You could also try adding different vegetables, such as corn, black beans, or zucchini, to give your soup an additional layer of flavor.
Additionally, you could top the soup with crunchy tortilla strips or shredded cheese for texture.
Finally, don’t forget about garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced olives or avocado slices – these will all make your soup look even more appetizing! Enjoy!
What is the best way to serve chicken enchilada soup on any occasion?
The best way to serve chicken enchilada soup is by creating individual portions. This can be done by arranging the ingredients in separate containers, such as small bowls or cups.
Place a scoop of chicken and vegetables into each bowl, followed by a generous spoonful of pre-made salsa. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
When ready to serve, heat up individual portions in the microwave for about one minute, then garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or jalapeños. Serve warm with tortilla chips on the side for added crunch! Enjoy!
This hearty and flavorful dish is sure to please any crowd – whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or just having friends over for a casual get-together.
Chicken enchilada soup is a delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of Mexican cuisine without having to spend hours in the kitchen! Give it a try today and see why so many people love this comforting dish. Bon appetite!
10 best chicken enchilada soup recipes you should try
1. Classic Chicken Enchilada Soup
This classic soup is sure to become a family favorite! The creamy broth is loaded with chicken, cheese, and tortillas for a delicious and hearty meal.
2. Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Soup
A cheesy twist on the classic enchilada soup that’s perfect for any evening of the week. Loaded with all your favorite Mexican flavors and made in one pot!
3. Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup
An easy slow cooker version of the popular recipe, this one-pot meal is sure to be a hit! All you need to add are some diced tomatoes, black beans, and green chilies for an extra kick of flavor.
4. Mexican Chicken Enchilada Soup
This flavorful soup is packed with all the classic Mexican flavors you love – with a bit of added spice! You can adjust the level of heat to suit your taste preferences.
5. Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup
For those looking for a milder version, this creamy white version is perfect! The chicken and cheese are cooked in a cream sauce that adds incredible flavor to the dish.
6. Copycat Chili’s Chicken Enchilada Soup
This an easy copycat recipe that tastes just like the popular restaurant favorite! Perfect for those nights when you’re craving something comforting and delicious without having to leave your house.
7. Spicy Chicken Enchilada Soup
If you like your soup to have a bit of a kick, this one is for you! The addition of jalapeno peppers and chili powder adds an extra boost of flavor.
8. Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup
This quick and easy version comes together in no time using an electric pressure cooker! You can control the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapenos to suit your taste preferences.
9. Salsa Verde Chicken Enchilada Soup
Give this classic recipe a twist by replacing red enchilada sauce with salsa verde! Switching up the flavors makes it even more delicious and flavorful than before.
10. Low-Carb Chicken Enchilada Soup
This an easy version of the classic recipe that’s perfect for those watching their carbs! This one is loaded with all the same great flavors, minus the tortillas and rice. Enjoy!
Wrap Up
When you’re planning a winter meal, chicken enchilada soup is always a good choice. It’s filling and satisfying, but it can be a little heavy on its own.
That’s why it’s important to choose the right side dishes to balance out the meal. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with a few perfect options that will leave everyone at the table happy and full What are some of your favorite sides to pair with this delicious soup? Let us know in the comments below!
FAQs
How can I thicken my enchilada soup?
To thicken the broth of an enchilada soup, you have a few options. The most common way is to blend or mash up some of the ingredients, such as beans or tortillas, and add them back into the soup.
You could also add some masa harina (corn flour) or arrowroot powder to the broth.
Another option is to mix together equal parts butter and all-purpose flour, known as a roux, and stir it into the hot soup until it thickens.
Lastly, you could puree cooked rice or potatoes, adding them back into the soup for extra thickness. Whichever method you choose, make sure that your soup has simmered long enough for all of the flavors to blend together before serving.
Why are my enchiladas watery?
If your enchiladas are watery, it could be because you used too much liquid or didn’t cook the sauce long enough. If the filling has too much moisture, it can cause the enchiladas to become watery as well.
Cooking the sauce in a skillet with some oil helps thicken it and reduce wateriness.
Additionally, making sure that you drain off excess liquid from your ingredients before adding them to the dish helps reduce watery texture.
Another common cause of watery enchiladas is not baking them for long enough in the oven. Make sure that you give your enchiladas enough time to bake so that they can firm up and absorb any extra liquid.
Lastly, using a thicker cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack can help keep the enchiladas from becoming watery. These cheeses tend to hold their shape better than other varieties and create a protective barrier against moisture.
You’ll be able to enjoy delicious, non-watery enchiladas in no time!
What bread to serve with chicken enchilada soup?
One of the best bread to serve with chicken enchilada soup is Mexican-style cornbread. This type of cornbread is light and spongy, with a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the savory flavors of the soup.
It has a slightly crumbly texture and can be made with cheese, chiles, and other flavorful ingredients.
If you’re looking for something even more traditional, try making a batch of flour tortillas. These are soft and pliable, so they are great for soaking up all the delicious juices from the soup.
Additionally, many people like to top their chicken enchilada soup with crunchy tortilla strips or chips for added texture and flavor.
If you’re short on time, store-bought cornbread or tortillas are a great option. However, if you have the moment and inclination, making your own homemade bread will really take this dish to the next level. Enjoy!
