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

A delicious bowl of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is perfect for any occasion. This creamy soup combines tender shredded chicken, flavorful poblano pepper, and hearty black beans for a comforting dish. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, this small batch recipe delivers big on taste without overwhelming your kitchen. Enjoy the unique blend of flavors that make this soup a standout choice for any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 55 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of poblano peppers and spices creates a robust flavor profile that delights the taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or customize with your favorite vegetables; this soup is adaptable to your pantry.
• Perfectly Creamy: The addition of heavy cream and cheese gives this soup a luscious texture that satisfies your cravings.
• Small Batch Goodness: Ideal for smaller families or meal prep, this recipe yields about 6 servings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Stirring Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients and simmering the soup evenly.
• Chef’s Knife: Ensures efficient chopping of onions and poblanos, making preparation quicker.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

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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)

For the Hearty Filling

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

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican Blend)

For Flavor Enhancements

• 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 your large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
– Add chopped onions and poblano pepper to the pot along with half of your seasoning blend.
– Cook for 5-6 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned.

Step 2: Stir in Hearty Ingredients

• Add shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and the remaining seasoning blend to the pot.
• Stir well to combine all ingredients.
• Increase heat to medium-high until it reaches a simmer; then let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make it Creamy

• Lower the heat slightly before adding heavy cream and shredded cheese to the pot.
• Stir continuously until the cheese fully melts into the soup.
• Allow it to come back to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Let the soup simmer for at least another 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
– Add fresh lime juice at this stage along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Divide your hot soup among warmed bowls.
– Garnish with finely chopped cilantro or any other preferred toppings before serving!

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

Serving your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup can enhance the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this creamy soup.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro on top for a fresh flavor boost.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zing of citrus.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch and a contrast in texture.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spices.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette or sourdough for dipping.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.

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

For the best results with your soup, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh spices instead of pre-mixed ones to maximize flavor.
• Homemade Broth: Opt for homemade chicken broth for richer taste compared to store-bought options.
• Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth gradually until you reach desired consistency.
• Cook Time Matters: Allow the soup to simmer longer for a deeper flavor profile; 30 minutes is ideal if time permits.

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

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that pair well with your soup.

1. Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that provides a refreshing contrast.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices makes a hearty side.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa for added flavor.
4. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice complement the main dish nicely.
6. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with vegetables offer a satisfying bite alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring ingredient prep – Always chop your onions and poblanos before starting. This ensures even cooking and enhances flavor.
• Overcooking the soup – Letting the soup simmer too long can lead to mushy vegetables. Simmer just enough to meld flavors while keeping ingredients intact.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments – Tasting your soup before serving is crucial. Adjust salt, pepper, and lime juice to balance flavors.
• Using low-quality broth – A good chicken broth makes all the difference in flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought options.
• Neglecting garnishes – Garnishes like cilantro not only add visual appeal but also enhance flavor. Don’t skip this step!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

• Freeze in portions for easy future meals.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it will last up to 3 months.

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

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in an oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring regularly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) creamy?

The creaminess comes from adding heavy cream and shredded cheese towards the end of cooking.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more poblano peppers or include jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Can I make the soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with cooked quinoa or increase the amount of beans for protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is a delightful mixture of flavors that is perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture combined with the warmth of spices makes it comforting yet versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences!