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

A warm bowl of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or a quick weeknight dinner. This creamy soup combines tender chicken, vibrant poblano peppers, and hearty black beans for a dish that is both nutritious and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe stands out for its rich taste and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 55 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of poblanos, spices, and creamy ingredients creates a robust flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile: This small batch recipe is perfect for meal prep or an intimate dinner. You can easily adjust the serving size to fit your needs.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from black beans, this soup is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite toppings or use different types of cheese to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the right tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
• Chopping knife: A sharp knife makes prepping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients while keeping your kitchen organized.

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 Soup Base

• 1 tbsp. Unsalted Butter (or Olive Oil)
• 1/2 cup chopped Yellow Onion
• 1 Poblano Pepper (chopped; stems and seeds removed)
• 2 cups Shredded Chicken
• 1 can Black Beans (15 oz.; drained – not rinsed)
• 1/2 cup frozen Corn
• 3 cups Chicken Broth

For Creaminess and Flavor

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

Seasoning Blend

• 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp. Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp. Chili Powder
• 1/2 tsp. Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt + freshly cracked Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp. Cumin

Garnish

• finely chopped Cilantro (for garnish)

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 they are tender and lightly browned.

Step 2: Stir in Hearty Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and remaining seasoning to the pot. Stir well to combine everything. Increase heat to medium-high until the soup simmers gently; let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream along with shredded cheese. Allow the soup to come back to a gentle simmer until the cheese melts completely.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes on low heat. Once done, stir in fresh lime juice, seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle hot soup into warmed bowls. Garnish with finely chopped cilantro and any other preferred toppings before serving!

Enjoy this delightful Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) as a hearty meal that’s sure to impress!

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

This creamy chicken poblano soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Finely chopped cilantro adds a fresh flavor and brightens up the dish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices complement the soup’s richness and add a nutritious touch.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Shredded Cheese: Top with extra shredded cheese for added creaminess and flavor.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the soup.

Create a Complete Meal

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa to make it more filling and nutritious.

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

Perfecting your chicken poblano soup is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an even tastier result.

• Bold seasoning: Adjust the seasoning blend according to your taste preferences for more flavor.
• Quality ingredients: Use fresh chicken and high-quality broth for better taste and nutrition.
• Simmer longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer than 15 minutes to deepen the flavors even further.
• Texture variation: For a heartier texture, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots during cooking.
• Creaminess: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter option while still maintaining creaminess.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the soup ahead of time; it tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.

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

Pairing side dishes with your chicken poblano soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, or corn add a smoky taste that balances well with the creamy base.
3. Guacamole: This creamy dip provides richness and enhances the overall dining experience.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and beans offer a hearty addition that matches nicely with the soup.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa adds brightness and acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the soup.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese make for an indulgent side that pairs well with any soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch), it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning blend: Using a flavorless broth or omitting seasonings can make your soup bland. Always ensure you add the full seasoning blend for maximum flavor.
• Not properly cooking the vegetables: Undercooking onions and poblanos can result in an unbalanced texture. Cook them until they are tender and lightly browned for the best results.
• Ignoring cheese melting time: Adding cheese too quickly without allowing it to melt can lead to clumps. Stir in the cheese gradually and let it melt fully for a creamy consistency.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold broth or chicken can drop the temperature of your soup, affecting cooking time. Always use room temperature or warmed ingredients when possible.
• Overcooking the soup: Simmering for too long can cause ingredients to break down too much. Stick to recommended simmer times to retain the integrity of your ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

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

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch).

Can I substitute different proteins in this soup?

Yes! You can easily swap shredded chicken for turkey or even beef if you prefer.

Is there a vegetarian version of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with plant-based protein or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is this soup?

The heat level depends on the poblano pepper used. For milder spice, remove all seeds and stems before chopping.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Popular toppings include avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, or tortilla strips for added crunch.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually tastes better after sitting for a day as flavors meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any night of the week!