Next, I reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create that luxurious creaminess. It’s at this moment that I truly feel like a chef in my own kitchen! After another few minutes, I start tasting for seasoning. Adjusting the salt and pepper can make all the difference. Once it’s just right, I sprinkle in the shredded cheese, letting it melt into the soup, creating that gooey texture we all crave.
Once the cheese has melted and incorporated perfectly, I transfer the soup to beautiful bowls. I love garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro; it adds not only a pop of color but also a vibrant freshness that balances the rich flavors. Don’t forget to serve with crunchy tortilla chips on the side – it adds the perfect crunch and is such a fun way to eat the soup!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this three ways: with homemade shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken, and even canned chicken. Each gave a different flavor profile, but honestly, I found rotisserie chicken to be the easiest and most delicious option for a weeknight meal. The key is to ensure that your chicken is well-seasoned, as it makes a world of difference in the soup.
Also, don’t skimp on the spices! I’ve learned this the hard way. The chili powder and cumin not only enhance the soup but also bring out the flavors of the enchilada sauce perfectly. A little dash more of either can elevate the taste so much!
Lastly, if you want an extra creamy texture, consider using half-and-half or a mix of cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream. I did this once and it made the soup even more decadent, though, admittedly, I couldn’t stop eating it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made the first time I tried this recipe was using low-quality broth. Trust me, using a rich, flavorful chicken broth can elevate the entire dish. I learned that the base of your soup sets the stage for all the other flavors.
Another pitfall is not tasting your soup as you go. It’s so important to adjust the seasoning along the way. The spices can have different intensities depending on freshness, and I always find that a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of extra chili powder can really make the flavor pop.
I also recommend not skipping the garnishing. At first, I thought the cilantro was just for looks, but it truly adds freshness and brightness that complements the dish wonderfully. A squeeze of lime can also brighten the flavors!
In addition, be careful with overcooking the heavy cream. If you let it boil too vigorously, it could separate and lose that smooth texture that makes the soup creamy. I always keep the heat low when adding it to avoid that mishap. (See the next page below to continue…)