Name: Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked); 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained); 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Salt and pepper to taste

If you love enchiladas but wish they came in a cozy, spoonable form, this Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup is your new best friend. It transforms the classic comfort of creamy white chicken enchiladas into a rich, hearty soup perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Every spoonful is filled with tender chicken, soft beans, mild green chiles, and melty cheese that blends into a silky broth that hugs you from the inside out.

What makes this soup stand out is its creamy texture balanced with a little heat and lots of savory flavor. It’s not just a soup—it’s a full meal that satisfies with every bite, and it also happens to be incredibly easy to throw together. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to warm up your weeknight dinner routine, this one-pot wonder is the answer.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup

This soup checks every box. It’s hearty without being heavy, creamy without being too rich, and has just enough spice to keep it interesting. You can customize it based on what you have on hand, and it makes excellent leftovers—if there’s any left to save! It’s also freezer-friendly and can be made in the slow cooker or on the stove. This is one of those soups that tastes even better the next day, making it a go-to recipe during colder months.

What Makes a Good White Chicken Enchilada Soup Base?

The key to a standout enchilada soup is layering flavor. Start with sautéed aromatics like onion and garlic, then build depth with spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Use chicken broth as the liquid foundation and enrich it with cream cheese or heavy cream for that luxurious texture. White beans and corn add heartiness, while green chiles give it a subtle tang and heat. Shredded chicken brings everything together into a complete, cozy meal.

Ingredients for the Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup

To create a soup that captures all the flavors of white chicken enchiladas, we need a well-balanced mix of creamy, savory, and lightly spiced ingredients.

Shredded chicken – This is the star protein of the soup, offering tenderness and richness. You can use rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts.

White beans – These add body and creaminess without overpowering the flavor. Cannellini or Great Northern beans work best.

Green chiles – Mild and tangy, they bring that classic enchilada flavor and just a touch of heat.

Corn – Adds a touch of sweetness and color that balances the savoriness of the soup.

Cream cheese – This is what gives the soup its signature creaminess. Make sure it’s softened so it blends in smoothly.

Chicken broth – The base liquid that ties all the flavors together. Use low-sodium if you want more control over salt levels.

Onion and garlic – Essential aromatics that build flavor from the beginning.

Cumin and chili powder – These spices add warmth and a subtle smoky depth.

Shredded cheese – For extra melty goodness stirred in at the end.

Olive oil or butter – Used to sauté the aromatics at the start of cooking.

How To Make the Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Spices and Base

Sprinkle in cumin and chili powder, letting them toast for a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

Stir in shredded chicken, white beans, green chiles, and corn. Simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Elements

Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Then add shredded cheese and stir until melted through.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cilantro, tortilla strips, avocado, or a squeeze of lime.

How to Serve and Store Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup

This soup is a meal on its own but also pairs beautifully with simple sides like cornbread or a crisp green salad. It comfortably serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes. For storing, let it cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to bring back the creamy consistency.

What to Serve With Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Cornbread with Honey Butter

A lightly sweet and buttery cornbread balances the gentle spice of the soup.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Bright and zesty, it works well as a side or even spooned into the soup for extra heartiness.

Tortilla Chips with Salsa or Guacamole

Crunchy and refreshing, they make a fun companion to each spoonful.

Avocado Tomato Salad

Cool, creamy, and vibrant—a great contrast to the rich soup.

Pickled Jalapeños

For those who want to kick up the heat a notch.

Simple Garden Salad

A refreshing counterpoint that adds crunch and color to the meal.

Cheese Quesadillas

Serve on the side or cut into strips to dip right into the soup.

Roasted Veggies

Try roasted zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers to add a colorful, healthy balance.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If this Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup hit the spot, you’ll probably fall in love with these cozy, flavorful recipes too:

Cajun Potato Soup with smoky spices and hearty texture.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a comforting creamy classic.
Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup full of exotic flair and warmth.
Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas if you’re craving more enchilada magic.
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini for a fusion spin that feels indulgent and fun.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it on a rainy day or chilly night.

Let me know in the comments how you made it yours! Did you add some jalapeño slices on top or maybe a swirl of sour cream? I love seeing your spins on these cozy favorites.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and hearty soups on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and get inspired for your next delicious bowl.

Conclusion

Creamy White Chicken Enchilada Soup is the kind of meal that instantly warms both your belly and your soul. It brings together comfort, convenience, and flavor in a way that few soups do. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, this soup delivers every single time.