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

A creamy Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a quick meal for the family, this soup delivers rich flavors and comforting warmth. Packed with shredded chicken, vibrant poblano peppers, and hearty black beans, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of poblano peppers, spices, and cream creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delightful meal ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. You can easily customize this soup!
• Perfect for Leftovers: This small batch recipe yields about 1 1/2 quarts, making it great for lunch or dinner the next day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mild spice and creamy texture of this soup.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without spilling over.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures smooth cutting of vegetables and chicken for quicker prep time.

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 Cooking 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)

Hearty Components

• 2 cups Shredded Chicken
• 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

Seasonings

• 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

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

Step 1: Cook the Onions and Poblano Pepper

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

Step 2: Stir in Hearty Ingredients

Add in your shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and remaining seasoning.
* Stir well to combine all ingredients.
* Increase heat to medium-high; bring the mixture to a simmer.
* Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until fully melted.
* Allow the soup to come back to a gentle simmer once more.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Let the soup cook for at least another 15 minutes to deepen its flavors.
* Stir in fresh lime juice before serving.
* Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle hot soup into warmed bowls.
* Garnish with finely chopped cilantro and your favorite toppings if desired!

Enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)!

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

Serving Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various garnishes and accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

Add Flavorful Toppings

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and enhances the soup’s freshness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the spicy notes of the poblano pepper.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty finish.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors perfectly.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and are great for scooping up the soup.

Create a Full Meal

• Simple Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal that’s filling and satisfying.

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

To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like onions and poblanos enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less chili powder according to your heat preference for a customized kick.
• Simmer Longer for Depth: Letting the soup simmer for an extended period deepens all flavors and creates a richer taste.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese varieties like Pepper Jack or Mexican Blend for unique flavor profiles.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge; they will last up to 3 days without losing quality.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well; just be sure to leave out the cream if you plan to freeze it, adding it only when reheating.

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 elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness; serve with tortilla chips.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A tangy corn salad with lime and cilantro that complements the soup perfectly.
3. Chips & Salsa: A classic pairing that offers crunchiness along with fresh tomato flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies bring a healthy element to your meal while enhancing flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Make mini stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans for an exciting addition.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime brings freshness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch), there are common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Keep these mistakes in mind to ensure a delicious result.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough seasoning can lead to bland soup. Make sure to adjust the seasoning blend according to your taste preferences.

• Overcooking the poblano: Cooking the poblano pepper too long can make it mushy. Sauté it until just tender for the best texture and flavor.

• Ignoring the simmer time: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow at least 15 minutes of simmering for optimal taste.

• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold broth or ingredients can lower the cooking temperature. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.

• Not garnishing: Skipping garnishes like cilantro can result in a less vibrant dish. Always add fresh herbs or toppings for added flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

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

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) that may help clarify your cooking experience.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto or kidney beans based on your preference.

How spicy is this soup?

The spice level is mild but can be adjusted by adding more chili powder or using spicier peppers if desired.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative to keep it creamy without dairy.

How do I customize my Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

You can add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or incorporate different proteins such as turkey or beef for variations.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture combined with the smoky flavor of poblanos makes it irresistible. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly yours!