Creamy Chicken Poblano Pepper Soup

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and texture like this Creamy Chicken Poblano Pepper Soup. I first made this recipe on a chilly evening, and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of roasted poblanos, tender chicken, and creamy cheeses creates a rich and satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. My family loved how the flavors blended together, and the kids particularly enjoyed the little kick from the jalapeños. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when entertaining guests. Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients

• 3 poblano peppers
• 3 chicken breasts, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 16 ounces roasted corn, frozen
• 2 cans black beans, 15-ounce cans
• 2 red bell peppers, diced finely
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup half and half, or heavy cream
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the Chicken and Peppers: In a bowl, toss the poblano peppers and chicken breasts with vegetable oil, half of the salt, and black pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with foil.
3. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the peppers are charred.
4. Prepare the Soup Base: While the chicken and peppers are roasting, melt the butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for about a minute.
5. Add Chicken Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a light boil.
6. Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen corn, black beans, and diced red bell peppers. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes.
7. Shred Chicken and Prepare Peppers: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven. Shred the chicken and dice the roasted poblano peppers (make sure to remove the seeds).
8. Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken and diced poblanos to the soup. Stir in the remaining salt, sharp cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, lime juice, cumin, cayenne, and half and half. Mix until the cheeses are melted and well combined.
9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with thinly sliced jalapeños before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 7 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or extra cheese if desired.
• Pair with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.
• Drizzle with extra lime juice for a zesty kick.
• Top with sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeño or reduce the cayenne pepper.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with beans (like chickpeas) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Meal Prep: This soup can be made in advance and stored for up to three days in the fridge.
4. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor.
5. Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux.

Recipe Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Use spicy sausage in place of chicken for a heartier, spicier soup.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different spices such as smoked paprika or fresh herbs like cilantro for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside cornbread or warm tortillas.
• Offer toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, or fresh herbs for a build-your-own bowl experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use boneless chicken?

• Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used for quicker cooking.

1. What if I can’t find poblano peppers?

• You can substitute with green bell peppers, although the flavor will differ.

1. Is this soup gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.

1. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

• Absolutely! Fresh corn will work well, just ensure it’s cooked beforehand.

1. How spicy is this soup?

• The heat level is mild to medium, depending on the amount of jalapeño used.

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

• Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

1. How do I make it creamier?

• Adding more half-and-half or heavy cream will increase creaminess.

1. Is it necessary to roast the peppers?

• Roasting enhances the flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.

1. What kind of beans should I use?

• Black beans are traditional, but pinto or kidney beans can also work.

1. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Poblano Pepper Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for any gathering or a simple family dinner, it combines the robust flavors of roasted peppers and spices with the heartiness of chicken and beans. The addition of creamy cheeses elevates it to a truly indulgent level. Whether you enjoy it on a cold winter night or serve it at your next get-together, this soup is sure to impress everyone. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your home!

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