Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, a tantalizing aroma wafted through my kitchen, transporting me to a cozy little café in the heart of Santa Fe. That’s the magic of this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this small-batch delight combines tender shredded chicken, smoky poblano peppers, and creamy black beans, all simmered to perfection. Not only does it come together in a flash, but it also warms your soul and fills your home with inviting Southwestern flavors. Whether you’re whipping it up for date night or just a comforting dinner for yourself, this recipe is designed to please without overwhelming your schedule. Ready to discover how to create this heartwarming dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for a special occasion? Let’s dive in! Why is this soup a must-try? Easy, This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy goodness, The combination of heavy cream and shredded cheese creates a rich, decadent texture that elevates this soup to a whole new level. Flavorful layers, The smoky poblano and well-balanced seasoning blend pack a flavorful punch, while the beans and chicken ensure a satisfying meal. Versatile options, Modify it easily for dietary preferences by swapping out ingredients like chicken for tofu or using vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Cozy appeal, Ideal for sharing, this small batch soup warms the heart—perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests! Enjoy with a side of Jalapeno Popper Soup for a delightful pairing! Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup Ingredients Here’s everything you need to whip up this creamy delight! For the Base • Unsalted Butter or Olive Oil – Use butter for richness; olive oil is a heart-healthy alternative. • Chopped Yellow Onion (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and depth; feel free to swap with red onion for a different flavor. • Poblano Pepper (1) – Infuses a smoky flavor; substitute with any mild pepper if needed. For the Soup • Shredded Chicken (2 cups) – The main protein; rotisserie chicken makes for a quick option, or use leftovers. • Black Beans (1 can, drained) – Provides protein and creaminess; you can use pinto beans as a substitute. • Frozen Corn (½ cup) – Sweetens up the mix; fresh corn works beautifully if it’s in season. • Chicken Broth (3 cups) – The soup’s base; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. For the Creamy Finish • Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Adds luxurious richness; half-and-half or whole milk can lighten it up. • Shredded Cheese (½ cup) – A melty delight; opt for cheddar or a Mexican blend for the best results. • Fresh Lime Juice (2 tsp) – Brightens everything up; while optional, it’s highly recommended! For Garnishing • Chopped Cilantro – Adds fresh flavor as a garnish; you can omit it if it’s not your favorite. Now that you have the ingredients ready, get excited about the warmth and comfort that this Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup will bring to your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add ½ cup of chopped yellow onions and 1 diced poblano pepper, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they’re tender and lightly browned. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, letting those savory aromas fill your kitchen. Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients Stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 can of drained black beans, and ½ cup of frozen corn into the pot. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth along with the seasoning blend of garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and cumin. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking uncovered for 15 minutes until heated through and flavorful. Step 3: Creamy Finish Once simmered, incorporate ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of shredded cheese into the soup. Continue to stir gently until the cheese melts and combines, creating a delightful creamy texture. Keep the heat on low and allow the soup to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting those flavors meld beautifully. Step 4: Final Touches After the creamy goodness has melded, let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes to deepen the flavors. Just before serving, add 2 teaspoons of fresh lime juice and adjust any seasonings as needed. This step will uplift the overall taste of your Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup. Step 5: Serve and Garnish Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish each serving with chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. Serve the Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup hot, perhaps alongside warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up every bit of this comforting dish. Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup Variations Customize your soup experience with a few delightful twists that will leave your taste buds dancing! Vegetarian Delight: Substitute shredded chicken with cubed tofu or cooked chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option. Add a dash of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor! Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added moisture and flavor. This will create a vibrant, veggie-rich soup that’s even more nourishing! Spicy Kick: Feeling bold? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up! You’ll be amazed at how it transforms the dish into a fiery fiesta. Creamy Alternative: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a unique twist. This tempts the palate with a subtle sweetness and lush texture that pairs beautifully with the spices. Broth Boost: For a more pronounced flavor, use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought. The fresh taste adds another layer of depth that elevates your comforting soup. Queso Fundido Moment: Stir in some queso fresco or even pepper jack cheese for a meltingly delicious finish. It’s like adding a fiesta in a bowl that’s sure to please cheese lovers! Grainy Goodness: Serve the soup over a bed of quinoa or rice to turn it into a heartier meal. This little addition makes your dish even more filling and satisfying. As you experiment with these variations, consider pairing your soup with a light salad or a bowl of Cajun Potato Soup for a delightful meal combo. Enjoy crafting your perfect bowl of comfort! Make Ahead Options These Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can chop all your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, consider shredding the chicken ahead of time (using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!). To maintain the soup’s creamy texture, prepare the base (without the cream and cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just reheat the soup gently on the stovetop and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This way, you can enjoy a comforting homemade dish without the last-minute rush! What to Serve with Easy Chicken Poblano Black Bean Soup Create a complete dining experience with these delightful complements that enhance each bite of this cozy soup. Warm Tortillas: Perfect for scooping, these soft and warm tortillas add a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. Crusty Bread: The crunchy exterior and fluffy interior make crusty bread ideal for dipping, soaking up every delicious drop of soup. Simple Salad: A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup while adding a crisp, refreshing element. Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavor of the soup, providing a luscious contrast. Mexican Rice: Fluffy cilantro-lime rice accents the soup, adding a zesty flavor and heartiness that makes your meal even more fulfilling. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice with a hint of lime echoes the fresh notes in the soup, bringing cohesion to your plate. Pineapple Salsa: The sweet and tangy notes of pineapple salsa brighten the meal, enhancing the soup’s Southwestern flavors beautifully. Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the soup’s richness perfectly. Churros: For dessert, serve warm churros with a chocolate dip to end the meal on a sweet, indulgent note. Flan: This creamy caramel flan offers a delightful contrast to the savory soup and leaves everyone with a sweet taste of tradition. Expert Tips for Chicken Poblano and Black Bean Soup • Fresh Cheese Matters: Using freshly shredded cheese ensures better melting. Pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that hinder creaminess. • Roast for Flavor: Consider roasting the poblano pepper before adding it to the soup. This intensifies its smoky flavor and elevates the dish significantly. • Control the Consistency: For a thicker Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, simply add more chicken broth to achieve your desired texture. • Season to Taste: Always taste before serving! Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a touch more lime juice for brightness according to your preference. • Avoid Overcooking Meat: If using leftover chicken, add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it remains tender and doesn’t dry out. How to Store and Freeze Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup • Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the soup fresh and ready for a quick meal. • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. However, avoid freezing the creamy version, as it may separate when thawed. • Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess if needed. • Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, do not boil the soup, as this can impact its texture and flavor. Instead, heat it just until steaming for the best results. Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best poblanos? Absolutely! Look for poblano peppers that are firm and smooth, with a deep green color. Avoid any with wrinkles or dark spots all over, as these might be past their prime. Fresh poblanos have a lovely aroma, adding that essential smoky flavor to your soup. How long can I store the soup in the fridge? You can store any leftovers of your Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing it up to keep it fresh! Can I freeze this soup? Very! However, it’s best not to freeze the creamy version, as heavy cream can separate when thawed. If you want to freeze it, prepare the soup without the cream and cheese, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and heat it up, incorporating cream and cheese just before serving. What can I do if the soup is too thick? If you find your Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is a bit thicker than you like, no worries! Simply add more chicken broth or a splash of water with each serving until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir it in slowly and taste as you go for that perfect texture. Is this soup allergy-friendly? It’s thoughtful of you to consider dietary restrictions! This soup can be made allergy-friendly by substituting ingredients easily. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free and skip the optional cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. If you’re serving pets, be cautious about the seasoning blend; consult your vet before sharing any human food with furry friends to avoid any potential allergens. How do I make it more spicy? Certainly! If you like a kick of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend. Alternatively, for a more complex heat, you can roast your poblano along with a serrano chili before adding it to the pot. Adjust according to your spice preference, and don’t hesitate to taste as you go! Creamy Chicken Poblano and Black Bean Soup for Cozy Nights This Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: SouthwesternCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter or Olive Oil Use butter for richness; olive oil is a heart-healthy alternative.0.5 cup Chopped Yellow Onion Adds sweetness; you can swap with red onion.1 Poblano Pepper Infuses a smoky flavor; substitute with any mild pepper if needed.For the Soup2 cups Shredded Chicken Rotisserie chicken is a quick option.1 can Black Beans Provides protein; you can use pinto beans.0.5 cup Frozen Corn Sweetens up the mix; fresh corn works if in season.3 cups Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.For the Creamy Finish0.5 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness; half-and-half can lighten it.0.5 cup Shredded Cheese Opt for cheddar or a Mexican blend.2 teaspoons Fresh Lime Juice Brightens everything up; highly recommended!For GarnishingChopped Cilantro Adds fresh flavor; can be omitted. Equipment Large pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add ½ cup of chopped yellow onions and 1 diced poblano pepper, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they're tender and lightly browned.Stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 can of drained black beans, and ½ cup of frozen corn. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth along with the seasoning blend. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking uncovered for 15 minutes.Incorporate ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of shredded cheese into the soup, stirring gently until melted.Let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes, then add 2 teaspoons of fresh lime juice before serving.Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 4mg NotesThis recipe is versatile; you can modify ingredients for dietary preferences. For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer. Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
