Name: Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup to Warm Your Heart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces Poblano Peppers (Roasted); 2 tablespoons Butter; 1 medium Onion (Diced); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 teaspoon Mexican Oregano; 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin; to taste Salt and Pepper; 1 cup Southwest Whole Kernel Corn (Drained); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Room temperature); 2 cups Cooked Chicken (Shredded); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Low-sodium); 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese (Freshly shredded); to taste Fresh Cilantro (Optional)

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As I stirred the pot one chilly evening, the rich aroma of smoky roasted poblanos and tender chicken enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the heart of comfort cooking. This Chicken Poblano Soup not only warms your soul but is also a delightful twist on the classic soup recipe that’s ready in under an hour. Picture creamy broth with the perfect balance of spice, customizable to your taste—whether you prefer a milder flavor or want to turn up the heat! With the bonus of being a meal prep champion, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. Curious how to craft this comforting bowl of deliciousness? Let’s dig in!

Why is Chicken Poblano Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting and Cozy: This Chicken Poblano Soup wraps you in warmth with its rich, creamy broth and smoky flavors.

Easily Customizable: Adjust the spice level or swap in your favorite vegetables, making it perfect for everyone at the table.

Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour, it’s a weeknight savior that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers—this soup gets even better the next day!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at gatherings, and watch as the bowls empty quickly, leaving everyone asking for more!

Pair it with some warm bread or tortilla chips for a complete experience, just like in my Keto Chicken Alfredo recipe!

Chicken Poblano Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Poblano Peppers – Adds smokiness and mild heat; for a quick fix, use canned green chiles instead if fresh poblanos aren’t available.
Butter – Provides richness and flavor, ensuring each spoonful is decadent.
Onion – Softens and sweetens the base flavor, creating depth in your soup.
Garlic – Enhances aroma and depth, adding a fragrant touch.
Mexican Oregano – Contributes an authentic herbal note; regular oregano can work in a pinch with a touch of ground coriander for added flavor.
Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and earthiness, making the soup truly comforting.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, bringing all the flavors together.

For the Added Goodness

Southwest Whole Kernel Corn – Introduces sweetness and texture; remember to drain before adding to the pot!
Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy, smooth texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy incorporation.
Cooked Chicken – Provides protein; using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for busy cooks.
Chicken Broth – Acts as the soup base; opt for low-sodium to manage saltiness.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – Enriches the soup and adds a rich creaminess that elevates each bite.
White Cheddar Cheese – Melts into a decadent consistency; freshly shredded cheese works best for ultimate melting quality.

For Garnishing

Fresh Cilantro (optional) – Adds freshness and color for garnishing, boosting the visual appeal of your Chicken Poblano Soup.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Poblano Soup

Step 1: Roast Peppers
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and roast them for 15-20 minutes, until their skins blister and char. Once roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer the peppers to a bowl, covering it with a lid for about 10 minutes to steam. After steaming, peel, seed, and dice the poblanos to prepare them for the soup.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and continue to cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma. This savory base is essential for your Chicken Poblano Soup.

Step 3: Add Seasonings
Mix in 1 teaspoon of Mexican oregano, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add in the drained southwest whole kernel corn and the diced roasted poblanos. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for 1-2 minutes. This step infuses the dish with wonderful flavors that will enhance your wholesome Chicken Poblano Soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Next, introduce 8 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese into the pot. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and combines smoothly into the mixture. This will create a delectable, creamy base for your soup, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.

Step 5: Add Broth
Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully while the soup thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Finish the Soup
Once simmered, add in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken alongside 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of freshly shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is both creamy and flavorful. The chicken broth along with the cream will make your Chicken Poblano Soup irresistibly rich!

Step 7: Serve
Ladle the comforting Chicken Poblano Soup into bowls, garnishing with optional fresh cilantro or crispy tortilla strips for added texture. This warm soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or tortilla chips, making it a delightful meal perfect for cozy gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Poblano Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Poblano Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the soup in portions in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens.

Make-Ahead Tip: This soup can be made a day ahead, as flavors improve upon sitting. Just reheat on low heat and enjoy the deliciousness!

Make Ahead Options

These comforting Chicken Poblano Soup flavors deepen beautifully when made ahead, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. You can roast the poblano peppers and sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Additionally, all your seasonings and corn can be pre-measured and kept in a separate container for easy incorporation. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply heat everything in a pot, add the chicken broth, cream cheese, and remaining ingredients, then simmer until heated through. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal with just a few finishing touches and minimal effort!

What to Serve with Chicken Poblano Soup

As the comforting aroma of Chicken Poblano Soup fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

Warm Tortilla Chips: Their crispy texture and slight saltiness provide a delightful contrast, perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness.
Crusty Bread: A warm, artisanal loaf freshly baked adds a robust and hearty dimension, ideal for sopping up every last drop of soup.
Zesty Cornbread: The hint of sweetness in cornbread complements the smoky flavors beautifully, creating a comforting array of taste sensations.
Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad with ripe avocados and tangy lime cuts through the richness of the soup, offering a light and creamy balance.
Spanish Rice: Serve a side of fluffy Spanish rice seasoned with spices; its warmth and flavors enhance the overall heartiness of the meal.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This aromatic rice adds a zesty freshness that pairs seamlessly with the flavorful Chicken Poblano Soup, creating a delightful harmony of tastes.
Lime Margarita: A refreshing cocktail with zesty lime complements the smoky soup, making for an inviting drink to enjoy alongside.
Churros: For dessert, these warm, crispy treats coated in cinnamon sugar bring a sweet finish to your meal, perfectly pairing with the flavors of the soup.
Spicy Salsa: A bold, flavorful salsa brings an extra kick to your table, enhancing the overall experience with its vibrant taste.

Chicken Poblano Soup Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to this comforting Chicken Poblano Soup and make it truly your own!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra layer of heat that will tantalize your palate.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate diced zucchini or carrots to add extra nutrition and heartiness without compromising flavor.
Creamy Dream: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to achieve a lighter soup while still maintaining that creamy goodness.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk in place of cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese to create a deliciously rich dairy-free version.
Flavorful Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a fresh and vibrant flavor that brightens the dish.

You might also try enriching your soup with a bit of lime juice for brightness! This Chicken Poblano Soup adapts beautifully to various tastes, just like in my Garlic Chicken Zucchini recipe where flavors are wonderfully flexible.

Bold and Smoky: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for an enticing smoky flavor that complements the poblanos beautifully.
Hearty Addition: Stir in black beans for an added source of protein and fiber that makes the soup even more filling.

The possibilities are delightful and endless!

Expert Tips for Chicken Poblano Soup

Perfect Pepper Roasting: Ensure poblanos are charred evenly for maximum flavor. Avoid rinsing them after peeling to preserve their essence.
Smooth Texture: For a creamier soup, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend smoothly into the Chicken Poblano Soup without lumps.
Adjusting Spice Levels: For a milder soup, remove the seeds from the poblanos. If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or serranos for an extra kick.
Thickening Techniques: If the soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered to allow evaporation or stir in a cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.
Storage Reminder: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop to prevent the cream from separating.

Chicken Poblano Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of poblanos should I use for Chicken Poblano Soup?
Absolutely! Choose fresh poblanos with firm skin that are free of dark spots or blemishes. Poblano peppers should feel heavy for their size, indicating they are fresh and packed with flavor. If fresh poblanos aren’t available, you can substitute with canned green chiles or frozen roasted poblanos to still get that delightful smokiness.

How should I store leftover Chicken Poblano Soup?
You can store your Chicken Poblano Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup is cooled completely before sealing the container to keep it fresh. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop to prevent the cream from separating.

Can I freeze Chicken Poblano Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Poblano Soup! Pour the cooled soup into airtight, freezer-safe containers. It will hold up well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer the container to the fridge to thaw overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

What if my Chicken Poblano Soup is too thick?
Very good question! If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water while warming it on the stovetop. This will help reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t reduce too much.

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Poblano Soup?
If you have dietary restrictions, absolutely consider using low-sodium chicken broth to manage sodium intake. For a lighter soup, you can substitute heavy cream with a lower-fat milk or even non-dairy options like coconut milk. Make sure to check the labels for potential allergens such as dairy or gluten.

What’s the best way to adjust the spice level in my soup?
The more the merrier! To adjust the spice level in your Chicken Poblano Soup, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the poblanos for a milder flavor. If you enjoy extra heat, feel free to add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers during the cooking process. Taste as you go, and make it perfect for your palate!