A creamy Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. This versatile dish combines tender shredded chicken, smoky poblano peppers, and hearty black beans into a delightful soup that bursts with flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup is sure to impress with its rich texture and satisfying taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious soup on the table in under an hour.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of poblano peppers, spices, and cream creates a depth of flavor that makes every spoonful enjoyable.
- Small Batch Convenience: This recipe yields about 1 1/2 quarts—ideal for small families or meal prep without leftovers taking over your fridge.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber from chicken and black beans, it’s a wholesome option for any meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this easy chicken poblano soup recipe, gather the essential tools to streamline your cooking process.
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: Ideal for evenly cooking the ingredients while providing enough space for simmering the soup.
- Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables like onions and poblanos.
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.
Base Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. Unsalted Butter (or Olive Oil)
- 1/2 cup chopped Yellow Onion
- 1 Poblano Pepper (chopped, stems and seeds removed)
- Seasoning Blend (see below) (or 1 tbsp. Chicken Taco / Chicken Fajita Seasoning)
- 2 cups Shredded Chicken
- 1 can Black Beans (15 oz.; drained – not rinsed)
- 1/2 cup frozen Corn
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
Creamy Elements
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican Blend)
Final Touches
- 2 tsp. fresh Lime Juice
- 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 the chopped onions and poblano pepper along with half of the seasoning blend.
* Cook for about 5-6 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
Step 2: Stir in Hearty Ingredients
Add the following to your pot:
* Shredded chicken
* Black beans
* Frozen corn
* Chicken broth
Stir everything together well. Increase the heat to medium-high until the mixture simmers.
– Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
Lower the heat slightly before adding:
* Heavy cream
* Shredded cheese
Stir until the cheese melts completely.
– Bring it back to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer for Flavor
Let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
– Stir in fresh lime juice.
– Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve Your Soup
Ladle the hot soup into warmed bowls.
– Garnish with cilantro and any additional toppings you enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)
Serving this delicious Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is a delight. It can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and make the meal even more satisfying.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh touch.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus.
Pair with Crunchy Accompaniments
- Tortilla Chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
- Cornbread: A slice of cornbread complements the soup’s creaminess.
Add Extra Toppings
- Avocado Slices: Enjoy creamy avocado slices for added richness.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)
Perfecting your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some helpful tips for making it just right.
- Bold Flavors: Use freshly toasted spices like cumin for enhanced flavor.
- Quality Chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience and rich taste.
- Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly during cooking.
- Spice It Up: Add more chili powder or jalapeños if you prefer heat.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving; it allows flavors to meld.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing that adds comfort and gooeyness to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with beans or veggies make a delightful sidekick.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the dish while adding healthy fats.
- Baked Tortillas: Crispy baked tortillas make for a great crunchy addition alongside the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) can be a breeze if you steer clear of common pitfalls.
- Using unseasoned ingredients: Skipping the seasoning blend can lead to a bland soup. Always season your vegetables and chicken well for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the poblanos: Cooking the poblano pepper too long can make it mushy. Sauté until just tender, allowing it to retain some structure.
- Neglecting the cream: Adding heavy cream too soon can separate it. Stir it in after simmering, allowing for a rich and creamy texture.
- Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving! Add salt and pepper at the end to enhance all the flavors.
- Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro add freshness and depth. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your dish!
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup last in the fridge?
This soup stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly.
Can I freeze Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?
Yes! You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
What can I use instead of heavy cream in this recipe?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half for a lighter option.
How spicy is Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup?
The spiciness level is mild but can be adjusted by adding more chili powder or using spicier peppers.
Final Thoughts
Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for a cozy meal. Its creamy texture combined with the freshness of poblano peppers brings warmth to any table. Feel free to customize it by adding extra veggies or adjusting spices according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup, a perfect small-batch recipe for cozy evenings or gatherings. This creamy soup combines tender shredded chicken, smoky poblano peppers, and hearty black beans, creating a delightful burst of flavor in every spoonful. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this satisfying dish ready in under an hour. Ideal for small families or meal prep without worrying about excess leftovers, this versatile recipe invites customization with your favorite toppings. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a wholesome comfort food option that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 poblano pepper (chopped)
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained)
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or any preferred blend)
- Fresh lime juice and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and poblano pepper; sauté for about 5-6 minutes until tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- Reduce heat slightly; add heavy cream and cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely.
- Simmer for an additional 15 minutes; stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve in warm bowls garnished with cilantro and your choice of toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 322
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added richness, use rotisserie chicken. Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or jalapeños. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
