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Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup for Kids

kid-friendly slow cooker chicken enchilada soup - featured image

A creamy, kid-friendly chicken enchilada soup made in the slow cooker with simple ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting soup is mild enough for kids but can be spiced up for adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can (15 oz or 425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz or 425g) corn kernels, drained
  • 1 can (10 oz or 283g) red enchilada sauce (mild)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz or 411g) diced tomatoes with green chiles
  • 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth, low-sodium
  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) cold water
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
  2. Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper over the top. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken to a cutting board or bowl. Shred with two forks or a hand mixer. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  5. Stir in the drained black beans and corn. Let heat through for about 5 minutes.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Add the slurry and cubed cream cheese to the soup. Stir until cream cheese is fully melted and soup has thickened slightly, about 5-10 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
  8. Ladle into bowls and serve with desired toppings.

Notes

For a thicker soup, increase cornstarch slurry to 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water. If soup is too thick after adding cream cheese, stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk. For a dairy-free version, swap cream cheese for silken tofu or full-fat coconut cream. For a spicier version, add 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, chicken enchilada soup, kid-friendly, easy, creamy, comfort food