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 gatherings with friends. This creamy soup not only boasts vibrant flavors from tender chicken and roasted poblano peppers but also provides a satisfying meal option that’s easy to prepare. With its blend of black beans and corn, this dish is both hearty and nutritious. Ideal for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this soup will surely become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices, fresh lime juice, and creamy ingredients creates a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: This soup can be customized easily by swapping out proteins or adding your favorite vegetables.
• Perfect for Small Gatherings: This small batch recipe yields about 1 1/2 quarts, making it great for sharing without overwhelming leftovers.
• Nourishing and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber from chicken and black beans, this soup serves as a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process seamless, gather your essential tools before you start. Having everything at hand allows you to focus on creating this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Chopping board: A sturdy surface for cutting vegetables safely ensures efficiency during prep time.

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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 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)

For the Hearty Ingredients

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

For the Creaminess

• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican Blend)

For Flavor Enhancements

• 2 tsp. fresh Lime Juice
• 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 Vegetables

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

Step 2: Stir in the Hearty Ingredients

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

Step 3: Make it Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese into the pot.
Continue to cook until the cheese has completely melted into the soup.
Allow it to come back to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Let your soup simmer for at least another 15 minutes to enhance all flavors together.
* Stir in fresh lime juice right before serving and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Divide your hot soup among warmed bowls.
* Garnish with finely chopped cilantro and any other toppings you desire!

Enjoy this comforting dish that warms both hearts and bellies!

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

Serving your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is just as important as making it. A few simple touches can elevate this dish from delicious to extraordinary. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: A sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the soup’s richness.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add texture and a salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide richness and balance out the spices in the soup.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping; it soaks up the flavors beautifully.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread brings a touch of sweetness that complements the savory soup.

Create a Complete Meal

• Salad: A light side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for added heartiness.

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

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

• Bold seasoning: Adjust the seasoning blend according to your taste preference. Don’t be afraid to add more chili powder for extra heat!
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for the best flavor. Fresh poblano peppers will give your soup that vibrant taste.
• Simmer well: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
• Creaminess factor: For an even creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding cheese and cream. This creates a velvety base.
• Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.
• Garnish wisely: Experiment with different garnishes like sour cream or diced jalapeños for added flavor variations.

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 delightful options:

1. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread topped with melted cheese adds indulgence to your meal.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant corn salad offers sweet corn mixed with cilantro and lime for freshness.
3. Crispy Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with spices make for a satisfying side dish alongside your soup.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic choice; gooey grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with creamy soups.
5. Simple Guacamole: Creamy guacamole made with ripe avocados provides a tasty dip that complements the flavors of your soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your table while enhancing the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using unseasoned chicken: Always season the chicken before adding it to the soup. This enhances the flavor and makes your soup more delicious.

• Not sautéing vegetables enough: Sautéing onions and poblano peppers until tender is crucial. This step adds depth to the flavor; rushing it will lead to blandness.

• Overcooking the cream: When adding heavy cream, do so gently and avoid boiling after it’s added. This keeps the cream from curdling and maintains a smooth texture.

• Neglecting to taste for seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjusting salt, pepper, or lime juice can elevate the dish significantly.

• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro or lime juice add freshness and brightness. Don’t skip these finishing touches for a complete flavor profile.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

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: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add more heat, include diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder amount in your seasoning blend.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows flavors to deepen. Just store it properly as outlined above.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

Consider pairing it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well in both the fridge and freezer!

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is not only creamy and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or using various types of cheese. Give this comforting recipe a try today; it’s sure to become a favorite!