When it comes to quick, comforting meals that nourish the soul and satisfy hunger, als for New Moms- Chicken Enchilada Soup is truly a game changer. This vibrant soup combines wholesome ingredients like fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, tender chicken, and just the right spices to create a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days when you need both ease and nourishment. Whether you’re looking for a freezer-friendly crockpot meal or simply crave a delicious way to warm up, this soup delivers on every front with its rich textures, smoky chipotle kick, and fresh, colorful veggies.

als for New Moms- Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients that bring deep, satisfying flavors and vibrant colors to the bowl. Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing taste, texture, and nutrition.

1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory base for the soup’s depth of flavor.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings a pop of color and a gentle sweetness.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and boldness.
1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes: Gives a smoky, rich tomato foundation with subtle charred notes.
1 cup tomato sauce: Helps thicken the broth and amplify the tomatoey goodness.
2 (15 ounce) cans no salt-added black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein, fiber, and a creamy texture contrast.
2 cups corn kernels: Sweet bursts and texture that brighten each spoonful.
1 teaspoon cumin: Brings earthy warmth and essential Mexican-inspired flavor.
1/2 teaspoon oregano: Adds a subtle herbaceous note that balances the spices.
3 tsp chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Delivers smoky heat and vibrant color.
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Offers lean protein that becomes tender and shreddable after slow cooking.
3 cups broth (vegetable or chicken): Creates the flavorful, comforting soup base.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Finishes the soup perfectly to your liking.

How to Make Cozy Chicken Enchilada Soup | Easy Freezer Crockpot Meal Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Freeze

Start by gathering all your fresh and canned ingredients. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and drain and rinse your black beans. Add everything except the broth into a large gallon-sized freezer bag. Removing as much air as possible helps prevent freezer burn, so press the bag flat before sealing. Label the bag with the date—you can freeze it for up to three months, making this an ideal meal prep option for busy days ahead.

Step 2: Thaw and Transfer to Slow Cooker

The eve before you want to enjoy this cozy soup, transfer your frozen bag to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly for about 24 hours. Once thawed, pour all the contents into your slow cooker. Add the 3 cups of broth on top, then give everything a good stir to combine all those amazing flavors.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to low and let the magic happen for 8 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook to tender perfection, soaking in all the smoky spices and hearty vegetables. The aroma that fills your home will be irresistible and comforting.

Step 4: Shred and Season

When cooking is complete, take two forks to shred the chicken right in the pot—this creates beautiful, bite-sized pieces that blend seamlessly with the beans, corn, and rich broth. Finally, adjust with salt and pepper according to your taste preference to bring everything into perfect harmony.

How to Serve Cozy Chicken Enchilada Soup | Easy Freezer Crockpot Meal Recipe

Garnishes

Top this soup with crispy tortilla strips for crunch, creamy diced avocado for silkiness, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add a cool, tangy contrast to the smoky heat. Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top brightens every spoonful, adding that herbal freshness that makes the dish pop.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside warm corn tortillas or crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful broth. A simple side salad with fresh lime dressing complements the richness perfectly, while a plate of sliced jalapeños or pickled onions can offer an extra kick for spice lovers.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or edible tortilla cups, turning the meal into a fun and interactive experience. Layering some shredded cheese on top and broiling just a minute can add a melty, golden crust that’s utterly irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen over time, making the next-day servings even better. Just be sure to keep the garnishes separate until serving to maintain their freshness and texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture. This makes als for New Moms- Chicken Enchilada Soup a super convenient meal to have on hand for hectic days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can cause uneven warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If you’re prepping directly in the slow cooker, frozen chicken breasts are fine, but cooking time may need to be extended slightly. However, we recommend thawing first for even cooking and best texture when using the freezer bag method.

Is this soup spicy? Can I adjust the heat?

The smoked chipotle peppers give it a lovely smoky warmth that’s moderate in spice, but if you prefer milder flavors, reduce the chipotle peppers or simply omit them. Conversely, add more if you love it fiery.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and increase beans or add sautéed mushrooms for extra texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully plant-based.

What’s the best broth to use?

Either chicken broth or vegetable broth works beautifully here. For richer flavor, homemade broth is ideal, but high-quality store-bought broth also yields a delicious result.

Can I prepare this soup without a slow cooker?

Definitely! Transfer all ingredients including broth to a large pot and simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours until chicken is tender. Shred the chicken before serving, just like in the slow cooker version.

Final Thoughts

Als for New Moms- Chicken Enchilada Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that makes busy days feel a little easier and tastier. With minimal prep, wholesome ingredients, and freezer-friendly convenience, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple whether you’re welcoming a new baby or simply craving a hearty, flavorful soup. So go ahead, give it a try and discover your new favorite cozy dish!