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

A warm bowl of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. This creamy soup is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor from tender chicken, hearty black beans, and the subtle heat of poblano peppers. Ideal for busy weeknights or as a delightful starter for dinner parties, this recipe stands out for its comforting qualities and vibrant taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 55 minutes, this soup is perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of spices, fresh lime juice, and creamy ingredients creates a depth of flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding extra veggies or using different types of cheese based on what you have on hand.
• Small Batch Delight: This recipe yields about 1 1/2 quarts, making it ideal for families or small gatherings without leftovers taking over your fridge.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from black beans, this soup satisfies your hunger while keeping it nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this delicious soup, gather your essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan or medium pot/Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or medium pot/Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and peppers quick and safe.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.

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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 Soup 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)
• 2 cups Shredded Chicken

Hearty Additions

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

Creamy Finish

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

Seasoning Essentials

• 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 Onions and Poblano Pepper

Melt the butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add chopped onions and poblano pepper along with half of your seasoning blend.
* Cook for 5–6 minutes until they become tender and lightly browned.

Step 2: Stir in the Hearty Ingredients

Add in the following ingredients to build up the base of your soup:
* Shredded chicken
* Black beans
* Frozen corn
* Chicken broth
* Remaining seasoning blend

Bring everything to a simmer:
* Turn heat to medium-high.
* Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Incorporate richness into your soup:
* Stir in heavy cream.
* Add shredded cheese gradually until fully melted.
* Let it come back to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Enhance the taste by letting it simmer further:
* Continue simmering for at least another 15 minutes.
* Stir in fresh lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Dish out your delicious creation:
* Divide 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)

This soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal flavor that complements the soup.
• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices can provide a rich texture.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess.

Pair with Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread makes for a hearty and sweet complement.

Serve in Creative Bowls

• Bread Bowls: Hollowed-out bread can be a fun and edible way to serve this soup.
• Mini Mason Jars: For a casual gathering, use mini jars for individual servings.

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

To make this soup the best it can be, consider these helpful tips for perfection every time you cook it.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies like poblanos and onions bring out better flavors than frozen ones.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or more chili powder.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese varieties for unique flavors; Pepper Jack adds a nice kick!
• Make Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better when made a day ahead as the flavors meld together.

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

Complement your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.
2. Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances the flavors of the soup.
3. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices provides an excellent base alongside the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers make a filling side that echoes the main ingredients of the soup.
5. Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh greens helps cleanse the palate between bites.
6. Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese create a tasty accompaniment to dip into the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch), there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using canned beans without draining: Not draining black beans can lead to a watery soup. Always drain and rinse your beans before adding them.
• Overcooking the poblano pepper: Cooking the poblano too long can make it mushy. Cook until just tender for the best texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Insufficient seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly.
• Skipping the simmering step: Failing to let the soup simmer allows flavors to meld poorly. Make sure to simmer for at least 15 minutes.
• Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes add flavor and aesthetics. Don’t skip cilantro or lime juice as they brighten the dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it in containers.

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

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes! You can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs directly in the broth until fully cooked before shredding them.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños to enhance the heat level according to your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This small batch soup is perfect for meal prep and keeps well in both the refrigerator and freezer.

Can I substitute other types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to use kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is a hearty dish that offers rich flavors with minimal effort. Its creamy base pairs perfectly with customizable toppings like avocado or cheese. Try this recipe today and make it your own!