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 casual gatherings. This creamy soup combines tender chicken with the smoky flavor of poblano peppers and hearty black beans, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. It’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or alongside your favorite bread, this small batch recipe offers a satisfying meal without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about 55 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream and shredded cheese adds a rich texture that elevates this soup to a comforting level.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from black beans, this soup is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with fresh cilantro, avocado, or tortilla strips for added flavor and texture.
• Small Batch Convenience: This recipe yields about 1 1/2 quarts, making it ideal for small families or meal prep without leftovers piling up.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gathering the right tools is essential. Here are the must-haves for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or medium pot / Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing room for stirring.
• Cutting board: A stable surface is crucial for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.

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)

Hearty Additions

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

Broth & Creaminess

• 3 cups Chicken Broth
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream

Toppings & Seasoning

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

Spices

• 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 peppers along with half of your seasoning blend.
– Cook for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned.

Step 2: Stir in Hearty Ingredients

Once the vegetables are ready:
– Add shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and the remaining seasoning blend.
– Stir well to combine ingredients.
– Increase heat to medium-high until the soup reaches a simmer; cover it loosely and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make it Creamy

After simmering:
– Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese.
– Allow it to come to a simmer again until the cheese melts completely into the mixture.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Let the soup simmer for at least another 15 minutes:
– Stir in fresh lime juice just before serving.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Divide hot soup between warmed bowls:
– Garnish each bowl with finely chopped cilantro along with any additional toppings you desire!

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

Serving Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is as delightful as making it. This creamy soup pairs beautifully with various toppings and accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Toppings

• Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice for an extra zing that balances the creaminess.
• Shredded Cheese – Top with your choice of cheese like Cheddar or Pepper Jack for a cheesy finish.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices add richness and a smooth texture to each bite.

Accompaniments

• Warm Tortillas – Serve with warm corn or flour tortillas for dipping or wrapping.
• Cornbread – A slice of sweet cornbread complements the soup’s savory notes perfectly.
• Rice – Serve over a bed of fluffy rice for a heartier meal option.

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

To achieve the best version of this delicious soup, keep these tips in mind for perfecting your recipe.

• Bold Seasonings – Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning blend according to your taste. More chili powder can add heat!
• Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh vegetables whenever possible. Fresh poblano peppers enhance flavor significantly.
• Simmer Time – Allow the soup to simmer longer if time permits. This deepens the flavors beautifully.
• Cream Variations – Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option while maintaining creaminess.

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 excellent options:

1. Crusty Bread – A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into this flavorful soup.
2. Garden Salad – A light garden salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.
3. Quesadillas – Cheese quesadillas make a great side; they’re easy to prepare and deliciously melty.
4. Mexican Rice – Flavored Mexican rice complements the soup’s spices very well.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled veggies add color and healthiness alongside the creamy soup.
6. Chips & Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa offer a nice contrast in texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch), it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough seasoning can result in bland soup. Always ensure you use a well-balanced seasoning blend.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Failing to chop your onions or poblano pepper properly can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to prepare your ingredients beforehand.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you add pre-cooked shredded chicken too early, it may become dry. Add it at the right stage for optimal texture.
• Neglecting cream incorporation: Adding heavy cream too soon can cause curdling. Wait until the soup is simmering before you mix it in.
• Not simmering long enough: Rushing through the simmering process can leave flavors undeveloped. Allow at least 15 minutes of simmering for a rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers 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)

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

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Can I use other beans besides black beans?

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

Is this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for those avoiding gluten.

How long does it take to make Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or adjust spices to suit your taste. This small batch recipe is perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping. Give it a try!