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

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then let me introduce you to my Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch). This creamy delight is packed with flavor and is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something simple yet satisfying. I adore this recipe because it’s not only quick to whip up but also brings the family together around the table for some hearty goodness.

What makes this soup truly special is its delightful combination of shredded chicken, tender black beans, and the smoky warmth of poblano peppers. It’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your tummy, making it perfect for everything from casual dinners to family gatherings. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to keep it close to your heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about 55 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream and cheese gives this soup its rich texture that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prep this soup ahead of time or store leftovers for future meals.
• Customizable: This recipe allows for plenty of variations so you can adapt it to your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll love how straightforward they are!

• 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)
• 2 cups Shredded Chicken
• 1 can Black Beans (15 oz.; drained – not rinsed)
• 1/2 cup frozen Corn
• 3 cups Chicken Broth
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican Blend)
• 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. Kosher Salt + freshly cracked Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp. Cumin

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is its flexibility! Feel free to tweak it according to your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Protein: Use cooked turkey or even beans to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Queso Fresco or Feta for a twist on flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce!

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

Step 1: Cook the Chopped Onions and Poblano Pepper

Melt the butter in a large saucepan or medium pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and poblano pepper along with half of your seasoning blend. Sauté these ingredients for about 5–6 minutes until they become tender and lightly browned. This step releases their natural sweetness while building a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Stir in the Hearty Ingredients

Next, add in your shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and the remaining seasoning blend. Stir everything together until well combined. Increase the heat to medium-high until it reaches a gentle simmer—this should take about 15 minutes uncovered! Letting it simmer helps meld all those delicious flavors together.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Now comes the fun part! Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese into your simmering soup. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into that creamy goodness you crave. Allow it to come back to a simmer; this ensures all those rich flavors really come alive.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor!

Let your soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes; this allows all those wonderful flavors to deepen even more! Once it’s done simmering, stir in fresh lime juice for that zesty kick—season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve

Divide your piping hot soup into warmed bowls and don’t forget to garnish with cilantro! You can also add any other favorite toppings if desired—like avocado slices or tortilla strips—for extra flair!

Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

Ready to take your soup game to the next level? Here are a few pro tips that will help you create the most delicious and creamy chicken poblano soup!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the flavor and nutrition of your soup. Opt for fresh poblanos and herbs whenever possible for a vibrant taste experience.
• Customize your seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference. A touch more chili powder can add heat, while extra cumin can provide depth. Tailoring the seasoning can make the dish uniquely yours!
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a bit longer helps meld the flavors together beautifully. The longer it cooks, the more robust and comforting it becomes!
• Experiment with toppings: Toppings like diced avocado or crumbled tortilla chips not only add texture but also elevate the overall presentation of your soup. Get creative with what you have on hand!
• Make it ahead of time: Soups often taste even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy a quick meal that’s full of flavor when you’re ready.

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

Serving this comforting soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it visually appealing. Here are some ideas to present this lovely dish perfectly!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy base beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over your bowl just before enjoying can brighten up all those delicious flavors.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado not only looks fantastic but also adds another layer of texture that pairs wonderfully with the soup.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and savory bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your soup while adding a delightful contrast in texture.
• Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping or crumbling on top of your soup for an added crunch that enhances every spoonful.
• Rice: Serving a side of fluffy white or brown rice can turn this dish into a heartier meal while complementing the flavors nicely.

Enjoy every comforting bowl of this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) with these serving suggestions that are sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is the perfect dish for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the soup to cool completely at room temperature.
• Item: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers.
• Item: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Item: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Item: Label with the date and type of soup before placing in the freezer.
• Item: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Item: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Item: For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the shredded chicken with diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty vegetarian version.

How long does Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add more spice to my Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

Certainly! If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with avocado slices or sour cream for added creaminess.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup! It’s not only simple but also packed with flavor that warms the heart. Whether you’re prepping meals for busy weekdays or just looking for a comforting dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your creations!