Chicken Poblano Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of chicken and the subtle heat of poblano peppers. This creamy soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome family meal. Whether you need a warm dinner on a chilly night or a satisfying dish to serve to guests, this soup will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why We Love This Chicken Poblano Soup Recipe
This Chicken Poblano Soup stands out for several reasons. First, it combines simple, accessible ingredients with robust flavors, ensuring that every spoonful is satisfying. The texture is creamy yet hearty, thanks to shredded chicken and black beans — perfect for those who love a dish that fills you up without being heavy. Additionally, the heat from the poblano pepper is balanced by the creaminess of the soup, making it a dish that both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors can enjoy. It’s also a wonderful one-pot recipe, making cleanup a breeze, which is a huge bonus for busy weeknights. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Ingredients about Chicken Poblano Soup
To prepare this flavorful Chicken Poblano Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- ½ cup Chopped Yellow Onion
- 1 Poblano Pepper, chopped (seeds & stem removed)
- Seasoning Blend:
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Chili Powder
- ½ tsp Dried Oregano
- ½ tsp Kosher Salt
- ½ tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
- ¼ tsp Cumin
- 2 cups Shredded Chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast/thighs)
- 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans, drained
- ½ cup Frozen Corn
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- ½ cup Heavy Cream
- ½ cup Shredded Cheese (such as Cheddar, Mexican Blend, or Colby Jack)
- 1–2 tsp Fresh Lime Juice (from 1 lime wedge)
- Fresh Chopped Cilantro, for garnish
How to Make Chicken Poblano Soup Directions
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped yellow onion, chopped poblano pepper, and half of the seasoning blend. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 to 6 minutes or until they become soft and slightly browned. This step is essential as it develops a rich base flavor for your soup.
Next, stir in the shredded chicken, drained black beans, frozen corn, and the remaining seasoning blend. Add in the chicken broth, and bring the entire mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. It’s essential to give it some time to heat through so that all the flavors can combine beautifully.
As your soup simmers, let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. This part allows the flavors to meld together nicely. After this simmering period, it’s time to make your soup creamy. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Keep mixing until the cheese has fully melted into the soup, creating a rich, creamy consistency. You’ll notice a lovely change in texture at this point.
Bring the soup to a simmer once more and allow it to cook for an additional 15 minutes. This last simmer will deepen the flavor even more. Before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring it’s just right for your palate. Finally, garnish each bowl with fresh chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor!
How to Serve Chicken Poblano Soup
Serving Chicken Poblano Soup is a delightful experience in itself. You can present it in warm bowls, shining with the vibrant colors of the poblano pepper and cilantro. For added texture and crunch, consider topping each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. Tortilla chips, diced avocado, or a squeeze of additional lime juice can also elevate the dish, providing a fun contrast to the soup’s creaminess.
Pair your soup with a side of crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a fulfilling meal. This soup can also be served as a starter at a dinner party. Either way, each bowl promises warmth and satisfaction, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Expert Tips: Chicken Poblano Soup
To make the best Chicken Poblano Soup, consider these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients truly enhance the flavor of your soup. Fresh poblano peppers will add a zesty kick, while freshly shredded cheese will melt better than pre-packaged options.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder soup, consider using bell peppers instead of poblanos. Conversely, if you love heat, add some jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cook Chicken Ahead: To save time, cook your chicken ahead of time. Using rotisserie chicken not only cuts down cooking time but also adds a depth of flavor.
- Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your garnishes. Avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of crispy tortilla strips can add delicious layers of flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Make a batch in advance and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
How to Store Chicken Poblano Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Chicken Poblano Soup is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can refrigerate the soup for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until hot.
Variation of Chicken Poblano Soup
Chicken Poblano Soup is versatile, allowing you to play with different ingredients based on your preferences. Here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and use additional beans, like kidney or pinto beans. You can also add more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional content.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the soup. This variation caters to those who love bold flavors.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs can elevate your soup even more. Try adding fresh thyme or parsley along with the cilantro for an aromatic twist.
- Creaminess Level: Feel free to adjust the creaminess of your soup. For a lighter option, reduce the heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
FAQ
What is Chicken Poblano Soup?
Chicken Poblano Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish made with chicken, poblano peppers, and a mix of spices, perfect for warming up on chilly days.
How can I make Chicken Poblano Soup spicier?
To make your Chicken Poblano Soup spicier, add diced jalapeños or include a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the recipe.
Can I use different types of beans in this soup?
Absolutely! While black beans are traditional, you can try kidney beans or pinto beans as tasty alternatives.
How do I store leftover Chicken Poblano Soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to three months.
Can I make Chicken Poblano Soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time, and it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
Is it possible to make Chicken Poblano Soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily omit the chicken and use more beans and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
These questions and answers should provide you with a deeper understanding of Chicken Poblano Soup and inspire you to make it a part of your cooking repertoire!
Chicken Poblano Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- ½ cup Chopped Yellow Onion
- 1 Poblano Pepper, chopped (seeds & stem removed)
- 2 cups Shredded Chicken Use rotisserie chicken or cooked breast/thighs
- 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans, drained
- ½ cup Frozen Corn
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- ½ cup Heavy Cream
- ½ cup Shredded Cheese (such as Cheddar, Mexican Blend, or Colby Jack)
- 1–2 tsp Fresh Lime Juice From 1 lime wedge
- Fresh Chopped Cilantro, for garnish
Seasoning Blend
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Chili Powder
- ½ tsp Dried Oregano
- ½ tsp Kosher Salt
- ½ tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
- ¼ tsp Cumin
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped yellow onion, chopped poblano pepper, and half of the seasoning blend. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until soft and slightly browned.
Cooking
- Stir in the shredded chicken, drained black beans, frozen corn, and the remaining seasoning blend.
- Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until the cheese has melted.
- Bring to a simmer once more and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
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