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 nights or quick lunches. This creamy chicken poblano soup is packed with flavor from the roasted poblano pepper and black beans, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining friends or needing a comforting meal, this small batch recipe ensures you get just the right amount without leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of only 55 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use leftover shredded chicken or adjust spices to suit your taste, making it adaptable for any palate.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from chicken and black beans, this soup is as healthy as it is satisfying.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream and cheese creates a rich and comforting texture that warms you up.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This small batch recipe is great for those busy weeks when you want something homemade but quick to prepare.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or medium pot/Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly, ensuring all flavors meld perfectly.
• Chopping board and knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

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

For Added Flavor

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

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican Blend)
• 2 tsp. fresh Lime Juice
• finely chopped Cilantro (for garnish)

Seasoning

• 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 medium pot/Dutch oven. Add the chopped onions, poblano pepper, and half of the seasoning blend.
* Cook for about 5–6 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned.

Step 2: Stir in the 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.
* Turn the heat to medium-high to bring the soup to a simmer.
* Allow it to simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese into the pot.
* Once the cheese has fully melted into the mixture, let it come back to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Continue to let your soup simmer for at least another 15 minutes.
* Stir in fresh lime juice at this stage.
* Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 5: Serve Your Delicious Soup

Divide hot soup between warmed bowls.
* Garnish with cilantro and any additional toppings you enjoy!

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

Serving Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is an opportunity to enhance the delicious flavors of this creamy dish. You can customize your bowls with a variety of toppings and accompaniments that complement the soup’s rich taste.

Toppings

• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess that balances the spices.
• Avocado – Sliced or diced avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for an extra zesty kick.

Accompaniments

• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips make a perfect side for dipping.
• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs well with the spice of the soup.
• Rice – Serve over a scoop of fluffy rice for a heartier meal.

Garnishes

• Shredded Cheese – Sprinkle extra cheese on top for added richness.
• Hot Sauce – For those who like it spicy, drizzle some hot sauce for heat.

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

To ensure your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning – Adjust the seasoning blend to match your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to add more spices if desired.
• Fresh ingredients – Use fresh vegetables whenever possible for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Simmer long enough – Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances the richness of flavors; aim for at least 30 minutes total simmer time.
• Cheese melting technique – Stir in cheese gradually after removing from heat to avoid clumping. This creates a smooth texture in your soup.

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 great options:

1. Cornbread – Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the savory notes of the soup perfectly.
2. Tortilla Chips – Crispy tortilla chips offer a crunchy contrast that is fun to dip in the soup.
3. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole provides an extra layer of richness that pairs well with spice.
4. Mexican Rice – Flavored rice adds substance and makes for a hearty meal alongside the soup.
5. Garden Salad – A fresh garden salad brings crispness that brightens up your plate.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Roasted veggies add nutrients and a smoky flavor that balances the dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls will help you make the best Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) possible.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking onions and poblano too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for a tender yet slightly crisp texture by cooking them just until they are lightly browned.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can make your soup bland. Always sample your soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or cream can cool down your soup. Warm these ingredients before adding them to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: Rushing through the simmering stage can prevent flavors from fully developing. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Skipping Garnishes: Neglecting garnishes like cilantro or lime juice can lessen the dish’s flavor complexity. A fresh herb or a squeeze of lime adds brightness that elevates the whole soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

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

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers since liquids expand when frozen.

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.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are in Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

This comforting soup features shredded chicken, black beans, corn, poblano pepper, and a creamy broth enriched with spices.

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

Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also switch up the cheese type for different flavors.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time when making this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch).

Is this soup spicy?

The spice level depends on how much poblano pepper you use. For milder flavors, remove all seeds from the pepper before chopping.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) offers delightful flavors in every spoonful. Its creamy texture paired with fresh herbs makes it comforting yet versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional vegetables!