Chicken Poblano Soup Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Delight
This Chicken Poblano Soup recipe delivers a rich, smoky flavor with juicy, well-seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and poblano peppers, all in a deliciously spiced broth.
It’s a comforting, wholesome meal that’s easy to make on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.
A Hearty and Satisfying Chicken Poblano Soup
If you’re looking for a soup that’s bursting with flavor, this Chicken Poblano Soup is the perfect pick. The mild heat and smoky essence of poblano peppers complement the robust seasonings and creamy texture.
The addition of black beans, sweet corn, and a perfectly spiced broth ensures every spoonful is hearty and satisfying.
What’s even better? This recipe is versatile and works both on the stovetop and in a slow cooker. Check out the pro tips below to make sure you get the best results!
How to Make Chicken Poblano Soup
Note: For exact ingredient measurements and step-by-step instructions, refer to the recipe card below.
- Sear the Chicken – Season and sear chicken in a soup pot, then set it aside to rest before shredding or dicing. Deglaze the pot with beer, allowing it to reduce by half.
- Sauté Vegetables – In the same pot, soften onions, poblano peppers, and garlic in butter. Stir in tomato paste, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salsa, black beans, and corn.
- Simmer the Soup – Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Incorporate Chicken and Cheese – Return the chicken to the pot, stir in cream cheese, and let it melt completely. Reduce heat and add shredded cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Serve and Garnish – Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and extra cheese if desired.
Poblano Peppers vs. Jalapeño Peppers
- Poblano Peppers: Mild heat, earthy, slightly smoky, and larger in size (4–6 inches), with a dark green color.
- Jalapeño Peppers: Spicier, tangy, smaller (2–4 inches), and bright green.
Expert Tips for the Best Flavor
- Deglazing with Beer: A light beer like Bud Light, Corona, or a Pale Ale enhances flavor. Alternatively, use chicken broth or beef broth if you prefer to skip beer.
- Choosing the Best Salsa: Use a high-quality salsa or an undrained can of Rotel tomatoes as an alternative.
- Tomato Paste Choice: Opt for tube-style tomato paste, such as Mutti Tomato Paste, for precise measurements.
- Shredded Cheese Matters: Always shred cheese from a block for a smoother melt. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby work well.
- Cream Cheese Selection: Use Philadelphia cream cheese in a tub for easy melting.
- Flavor Boosters: Worcestershire sauce adds umami depth, hot sauce heightens the spice, and mustard powder provides a subtle tang.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
This Chicken Poblano Soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to three months.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency.
Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
- Dutch Oven (4.5-Quart) – Ideal for making soups and stews.
- Spice Rack – Keeps seasonings organized and easily accessible.
- Measuring Spoons – Magnetic spoons are convenient for precise measurements.
- Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife – Essential for prepping ingredients efficiently.
- Avocado Slicer – Perfect for preparing toppings.
- Cheese Grater – Ensures freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is Chicken Poblano Soup?
This soup has a mild smoky heat from poblano peppers. You can increase the spice level by adding jalapeños or more hot sauce.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
What can I use instead of beer?
You can deglaze the pot with chicken broth, beef broth, or even a splash of lime juice.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk instead of cream cheese and opt for a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.
What toppings pair well with this soup?
Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and crispy tortilla strips all add amazing texture and flavor.
References
- Mutti Tomato Paste
- Philadelphia Cream Cheese
- Rotel Tomatoes
- Frank’s RedHot Sauce
- Dutch Oven Cooking Guide
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