Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With creamy textures, hearty ingredients, and a touch of spice from the poblano pepper, you’ll find this soup to be both satisfying and flavorful. Ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup is ready in about 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of poblano peppers, black beans, and seasoning creates a deliciously rich taste that will warm you up.
• Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Creamy Texture: Adding heavy cream and cheese gives this soup a delightful creaminess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Small Batch: This recipe makes about 1 1/2 quarts of soup, perfect for small families or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this easy chicken poblano soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without burning. A good pot helps maintain consistent heat.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables effortless and safe. A dull knife can lead to accidental slips while cutting.

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Ingredients

A creamy chicken poblano soup recipe with black beans, corn, shredded chicken, a poblano pepper, and plenty of flavor! This is a small batch recipe that makes about 1 1/2 quarts of soup.

For the Base

• 1 tbsp. Unsalted Butter (or Olive Oil)
• 1/2 cup chopped Yellow Onion
• 1 Poblano Pepper (chopped, stems and seeds removed)
• Seasoning Blend (or 1 tbsp. Chicken Taco / Chicken Fajita Seasoning)

Hearty Additions

• 2 cups Shredded Chicken
• 1 can Black Beans (15 oz.; drained – not rinsed)
• 1/2 cup frozen Corn
• 3 cups Chicken Broth

Creamy Finish

• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican Blend)
• 2 tsp. fresh Lime Juice

Seasonings

• finely chopped Cilantro (for garnish)
• 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp. Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp. Chili Powder
• 1/2 tsp. Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp. (each) Kosher Salt + freshly cracked Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp. Cumin

How to Make Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add onions and chopped poblano peppers along with half of your seasoning blend.
* Cook for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned.

Step 2: Stir in Hearty Ingredients

Once the vegetables are cooked:
* Add shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and the remaining seasoning blend.
* Stir everything to combine thoroughly.
* Increase heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a simmer; let it simmer uncovered for around 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

After simmering:
* Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until fully melted.
* Allow the soup to come back to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Let your soup continue simmering:
* For at least an additional 15 minutes to deepen flavors.
* Stir in fresh lime juice; season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

When ready:
* Divide hot soup among warmed bowls.
* Garnish with finely chopped cilantro and any other favorite toppings you enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup!

How to Serve Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

Serving Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is an opportunity to get creative with toppings and side dishes. This comforting soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with complementary flavors for a delightful meal.

Classic Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side so guests can add a zesty kick to their bowls.

Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch and enhance the soup’s texture.
• Shredded Cheese: Offer extra shredded cheese like Cheddar or Pepper Jack for those who love a cheesy finish.

Flavor Boosters

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and balance the flavors.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices provide creaminess and richness that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanying Dishes

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread alongside for a sweet and savory pairing.
• Rice: A side of fluffy rice can help soak up the delicious broth.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

To elevate your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Bold Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning blend according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to add more chili powder or cumin for extra warmth.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chicken broth for a richer flavor. Homemade broth is always a great option if you have it on hand.
• Fresh Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, include fresh vegetables like diced zucchini or bell peppers along with the poblano pepper.
• Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for creaminess without the heaviness.
• Simmer Time: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances its flavors. The longer it simmers, the better it gets!
• Storage Tips: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

Pairing sides with your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this flavorful soup perfectly.

1. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs well with the spice of the soup. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
2. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and your favorite vinaigrette balances out the hearty soup.
3. Cheesy Quesadillas: Quick-to-make quesadillas filled with cheese make an excellent accompaniment that kids will love too.
4. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a comforting side that complements the soup’s bold flavors.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition while adding depth to your meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Serve stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or quinoa as a filling side dish that echoes the soup’s ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Ignoring onion and poblano cooking time: Allowing these ingredients to cook until tender enhances their flavors. If you rush this step, the soup may lack depth.
• Overlooking seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient brings its own flavor. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for a balanced dish.
• Skipping the simmering phase: Simmering allows all the flavors to meld together. Skipping this step can result in a bland soup.
• Not using quality chicken broth: The broth is a key component of the soup’s flavor profile. Choose a high-quality or homemade broth for the best results.
• Neglecting garnishes: A sprinkle of cilantro or other toppings adds freshness. Don’t forget this final touch for a more vibrant presentation.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate fresh cheese instead.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl; heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup.

Can I use other types of beans in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference.

How spicy is Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup?

Poblano peppers are mild but can vary slightly in heat. If you prefer more spice, consider adding jalapeño or red pepper flakes.

Is there a vegetarian version of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup?

Absolutely! Substitute shredded chicken with additional beans or vegetables like zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better after sitting as the flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices according to your taste. Try it today for a comforting meal that’s perfect any day of the week!