Deliciously Cozy Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup

I remember the first time I made Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup—it was one of those cozy chilly nights when the kiddos were all tucked in and I just wanted something comforting yet easy to whip up after a hectic day. The aroma of the green enchilada sauce mingling with tender chicken and beans simmering in the crockpot was like an instant hug to my kitchen. This soup quickly became a favorite, not just because of how flavorful and satisfying it was, but also because it’s one of those easy crockpot chicken soup recipes that conveniently does most of the work for you while you’re handling the usual family chaos.

The discovery of this Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup came out of a cooking mishap—one time, I tried a complicated enchilada casserole and ended up nearly burning the sauce. So, I hurriedly adapted the recipe into a soup form, throwing everything into the crockpot with green enchilada sauce and some chicken. And boy, did that turn out much better! The green enchilada sauce soup cooked slowly all day, melding flavors in a way that just made the whole house smell divine. If you’ve ever tried making enchilada soup with chicken, you know getting the spices just right can be a bit of trial and error, but this recipe hits the perfect balance—bright, a little spicy, and oh-so-warm.

Since then, this slow cooker green chili soup has been a go-to for busy weeknights or when I need a friend to lean on during those crazy soccer practices and homework marathons. It’s especially handy when the cold weather rolls in; everyone gathers around a big pot of this soup, and suddenly, the day’s stresses melt away. Plus, if you love this kind of easy crockpot chicken soup, you’ll appreciate how tender the chicken becomes, soaking up all those green enchilada sauce goodness.

If you haven’t tried a crockpot chicken enchilada soup version of green chili soup, I invite you to stick around here. I’ll share my favorite ingredients, some tips I’ve picked up over the years, and trusted steps so that your kitchen can smell just as inviting—and your family can enjoy this cozy meal as much as mine does. For a bit more inspiration, recipes similar to this slow cooker green chili soup, like the creamy green enchilada chicken soup, can be found over at Seeking Good Eats, which gives you a slightly different take if you want to mix things up. Trust me—once you try this Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup, it’ll become one of those recipes you keep coming back to.

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup

When it comes to making Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup, using good-quality ingredients really makes the difference. Here’s what I always keep on hand to make this hearty and flavorful soup:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (I prefer breasts for shredability, but thighs work if you want extra juiciness)
  • 1 can (15 oz) green enchilada sauce (I look for one that’s not too salty or overly spicy)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced green chilies (adds that lovely kick without overwhelming heat)
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed (great for a creamy texture and protein boost)
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels (give it that sweet pop)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (adds sweetness once it cooks down)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic just makes everything better)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (so you can control the saltiness)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin (a must for that warm, earthy flavor)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (brings out the Mexican spice essence)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, lime wedges

I always use a good-quality green enchilada sauce for my Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup—sometimes I make my own if I have time, but a store-bought sauce like the one from my local Mexican market works wonders too. When making slow cooker green chili soup or any crockpot chicken enchilada soup, it’s useful to pick canned chilies and beans that are BPA-free for peace of mind.

Here’s a Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup trick I learned from my mom: rinsing the beans before adding them takes away any excess sodium and bitterness, making the soup taste fresher. Also, chopping your onion and garlic ahead of time and freezing them in small portions saves so much prep time when you need an easy crockpot chicken soup.

A quick shopping tip: green enchilada sauce and green chilies can be found in the Hispanic foods aisle of most grocery stores or your local Latino supermarket, which usually has even more authentic options. Buying canned corn and beans in bulk and freezing extras can cut costs when you’re making this green enchilada sauce soup regularly.

Leftover ingredients like extra chicken broth and frozen corn keep well for about 6 months in the freezer, so I’m never caught off guard when craving this Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup on a busy weeknight.

For other great ingredient staples or tips around slow cooker meals, you might find handy ideas at Chelsea’s Messy Apron, where there’s a lovely slow cooker green chili soup video that covers some prep basics.

How to Make – Step-by-Step:

I know tackling a new slow cooker recipe can feel intimidating, especially when you want your Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup to be perfectly seasoned and comforting. But don’t worry if your first try isn’t exactly restaurant quality—this soup is forgiving, and I’ll walk you through it like I’m right there with you.

1. Prepare your veggies and chicken: Start by chopping the onion finely and mincing those garlic cloves. I usually get this done in the morning or the night before, so I don’t feel rushed. Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Add all the flavorful ingredients: Pour the green enchilada sauce over the chicken, then add the diced green chilies, white beans, corn, onion, and garlic. Sprinkle the cumin and oregano on top. Pour in the chicken broth carefully, so everything gets lovely and moist.

3. Cook it low and slow: I’ve learned the hard way with Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup that cooking it on a low setting for about 6 to 7 hours is the sweet spot. Your chicken should be tender enough to shred easily by the time your family’s ready for dinner. If you’re pressed for time, many times I’ve bumped it to high for 3-4 hours, but slow truly wins the flavor battle here.

4. Shred the chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, pull out the chicken breasts with tongs or a slotted spoon, shred them with two forks, and stir them back into the crockpot. This helps distribute the rich taste of green enchilada sauce soup throughout.

5. Season and taste: Give your soup a good stir, then taste for salt and pepper. Sometimes slow cooker soups taste a little dull at first because everything’s been sealed inside, but this step boosts those flavors just right.

6. Optional thickening: If you like a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the crockpot, cooking for another 10 minutes to thicken things up. I find this depends on the day—sometimes my family prefers a lighter broth.

While the Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is cooking, I usually catch up on household chores or prep some fresh toppings like chopped cilantro or shredded cheese. The smell wafting through the house—that mild heat combined with a touch of citrus from the green chilies—is absolutely mouth-watering and a sure sign dinner’s near.

If you want to see the cooking process in action, Recipe Runner’s Slow Cooker Creamy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup is a great video resource with lots of tips.

Serving:

Bowl of Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup ready to serve

Serving Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup is such a joyful moment in my house because the kids literally cheer when they hear what’s for dinner. They love digging into the comforting warmth of the slow cooker green chili soup, especially when I top it with fresh avocado slices and a sprinkle of cheese.

I often serve this Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup with warm, homemade cornbread or crispy tortilla chips. These sides soak up the flavorful broth and add that wonderful contrast with a bit of crunch. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a zesty lime dressing pairs well because it refreshes the palate between spoonfuls.

This soup is perfect for casual family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even game nights when everyone wants something filling but fuss-free. It’s also a fantastic choice for a potluck or when friends are visiting—my guests always ask for the recipe after trying this enchilada soup with chicken.

Presentation-wise, I like to ladle the soup into hearty bowls, topped with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime wedges on the side. The splash of color makes it feel festive and inviting.

If you have extra Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup, it reheats beautifully the next day and even tastes better as the flavors meld further. Sometimes I use leftover soup as a filling for burritos or drizzle it over rice bowls for an easy lunch.

Seasonally, I’ve experimented adding roasted poblanos in fall or fresh tomatillos in summer for a brighter green enchilada sauce soup flavor. It’s a recipe that’s flexible, which keeps it fun and family-friendly.

If you want more pairing ideas or presentation inspiration for your Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup, Chelsea’s Messy Apron offers some lovely tips to try.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for my Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup?
A: Absolutely! I’ve done this countless times for ease. Just add extra cooking time to make sure the chicken cooks through (usually 7-8 hours on low). However, avoid cooking frozen chicken on high in the crockpot to prevent uneven cooking.

Q: How spicy is this Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup?
A: It’s mildly spicy, perfect for kids and adults alike. If your family is heat-sensitive, you might start with less green chilies or use a mild green enchilada sauce. My family actually loves when I add a bit extra for a slow cooker green chili soup kick.

Q: Can I make this Soup without beans?
A: Certainly! If you or your family aren’t bean fans, just omit them or swap with extra corn or diced potatoes for heartiness. It’s still an amazing enchilada soup with chicken flavor without beans.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: This Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.

Q: Can I add cream or cheese in the slow cooker?
A: I prefer to add cheese or sour cream as toppings after cooking to prevent curdling or the soup becoming too thick too early. For creaminess inside the pot, stirring in a little cream near the end works nicely.

Q: What if my Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup turns out too watery?
A: That’s easy to fix! Try using a cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and water) added in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, remove the lid and cook on high for 20-30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes! I’ve doubled it for big family get-togethers. Just make sure your slow cooker is big enough (at least 6-quart) and adjust cooking time slightly, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.

You know what I do when my Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup needs a little extra something? I sneak in a bit of fresh lime juice before serving—the zing really lifts the whole pot. For more helpful Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup tips, check out Seeking Good Eats’ Creamy Green Enchilada Chicken Soup, where they also answer common questions and have wonderful reader feedback.

My Final Thoughts:

Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup holds a very special place in my heart—it’s that go-to recipe that instantly brings comfort without complicated steps, and that’s a blessing in a busy family life. It’s one of those meals that’s passed the family taste test countless times and still surprises me with its rich, satisfying flavor.

My Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup Pro Tips:
– Always shred the chicken after cooking, not before, to keep the texture perfect.
– Rinse canned beans to keep flavors fresh and reduce sodium.
– Let the soup rest on warm for 15 minutes after cooking to deepen flavors before serving.

I’ve tried variations too—sometimes swapping white beans for black beans, or making a creamy version by stirring in some cream cheese for added richness. The kids love the original slow cooker green chili soup, while my husband prefers when I add a handful of fresh spinach at the end for a veggie boost. No matter which version you choose, this recipe welcomes tweaks and personalization.

If you love this Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup, you’ll definitely want to try some other slow cooker favorites like my honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs or easy slow cooker corned beef, both of which you can check out for equally dependable and delicious family meals.

I hope this inspires you to make this Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup your own. There’s so much love in a pot of soup made with care, especially when it’s shared with family. So don’t be afraid to get a little messy in the kitchen and enjoy every spoonful—it’s worth it.

Happy cooking, friend!

Print

Slow Cooker Green Enchilada Chicken Soup

This slow cooker green enchilada chicken soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for a hearty meal that delivers rich Mexican-inspired flavors with minimal effort.

  • Author: Zoubida
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can (15 oz) green enchilada sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Add green enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper on top.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  5. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
  6. Add lime juice and chopped cilantro, stirring well.
  7. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, and tortilla chips.

Notes

For extra creaminess, stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!