Meal Prep Canned Chicken Enchilada Soup For Quick Weekday Lunches
Looking for a delicious and easy way to streamline your weekday lunches? Canned chicken enchilada soup is the perfect solution! This meal prep recipe is not only quick to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re headed to work, school, or simply want a hearty meal at home, this soup will keep you satisfied and energized.
Using canned chicken saves you time without compromising taste. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this creamy and spicy soup in no time. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big pot over the weekend and portion it out for the week ahead. Let’s dive into the delicious world of canned chicken enchilada soup!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Crispy tortilla strips, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the canned chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and diced green chilies to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Before serving, stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your meal prep canned chicken enchilada soup!
Why Meal Prep?
Meal prepping can save you time and stress during busy weekdays. By preparing meals in advance, you can ensure that you have healthy options available without having to cook every day. This canned chicken enchilada soup is a fantastic option for meal prep because it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
When you portion out the soup into individual containers, you can easily grab a serving before heading out the door. Plus, the flavors deepen and improve as it sits, making it even more delicious on day two or three.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made your soup, allow it to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. If freezing, be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and then heat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. You can also use the microwave; just be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
Variations
This recipe is incredibly versatile. If you want to add more veggies, consider including diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. These can be sautéed with the onions at the beginning of the cooking process.
For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the canned chicken and replace it with additional beans or lentils.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked shredded chicken. You would need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is heated through.
2. How do I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, omit the canned chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just be sure to store it in airtight containers and leave a little space at the top for expansion.
4. What can I serve with this soup?
This enchilada soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This meal prep canned chicken enchilada soup for quick weekday lunches is a game changer. Not only does it save time, but it’s also a comforting, flavorful option that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a hearty lunch ready to go. Give it a try and enjoy the ease of meal prepping!
Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so feel free to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
