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 cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals. This creamy soup is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to make! With tender shredded chicken, black beans, and the smoky flavor of poblano peppers, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you are enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it at a gathering, this small batch recipe makes about 1 1/2 quarts—just the right amount for sharing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – This soup can be made in just about 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Ingredients – The combination of poblano peppers and spices creates a rich, flavorful base that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite bread for an extra hearty meal.
• Healthy Choice – Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from black beans, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Easy to Customize – Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your cooking experience, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan or medium pot/Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or medium pot/Dutch oven – Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Cutting board – Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients quickly and safely.
• Sharp knife – Ensures smooth cutting of vegetables and meat, saving time during preparation.

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 (see below) (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

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

Step 2: Stir in the Hearty Ingredients

Add shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and remaining seasoning to the pot.
* Stir well to combine all ingredients.
* Turn the heat to medium-high until the soup comes to a simmer.
* Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make it Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese into the simmering soup.
* Once the cheese is fully melted into the mixture, let it come back to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Let your soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes to enhance flavors.
* Stir in fresh lime juice at this stage.
* Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Divide the hot soup into warmed bowls.
* Garnish each bowl with finely chopped cilantro.
* Add any other toppings you enjoy before serving!

Enjoy this comforting bowl of Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup that warms both body and soul!

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

This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Serving it with the right accompaniments can enhance its flavors and make your meal even more satisfying.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Avocado: Add diced avocado for creaminess and a healthy fat boost.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the soup beautifully.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a nice contrast to the spice of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

Offer Toppings Bar

• Shredded Cheese: Provide various shredded cheeses like Cheddar or Pepper Jack for added richness.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like it spicy, offer hot sauce on the side.

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

To make your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup truly stand out, consider these simple tips that can elevate its taste and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Use fresh spices rather than old ones for a bolder flavor profile.
• Quality Chicken Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth to enrich the soup’s taste.
• Cream at the End: Stir in heavy cream just before serving to maintain its creamy texture without curdling.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the black beans before adding them back into the pot.

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 create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a fun texture contrast.
2. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens offers freshness that balances the richness of the soup.
3. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice can be served alongside for extra heartiness.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add smoky flavors that complement the soup’s spice.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice create an appealing presentation alongside the soup.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese are perfect for dipping into your flavorful broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Bold choice of seasoning: Using too much or too little seasoning can throw off the soup’s flavor. Start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.
• Bold handling of poblano peppers: Not removing the seeds and stems can lead to an overly spicy soup. Be sure to chop them properly for the best taste.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the soup can lead to mushy vegetables. Keep an eye on the cooking time for perfectly tender ingredients.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using the wrong type of chicken or beans can change the soup’s texture and flavor. Stick to shredded chicken and black beans for a classic taste.
• Bold cream incorporation: Adding heavy cream too early may prevent it from blending smoothly. Wait until the soup has simmered before adding it in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

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

• Portion soup into freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this soup easy?

This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it quick to prepare.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes! You can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs directly in the broth before shredding them for added flavor.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.

What is the best way to serve this soup?

Serve it hot with garnishes like cilantro, avocado slices, or tortilla chips for extra crunch!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is not only delicious but also versatile. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any weeknight meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional veggies!