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

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is just what you need! It’s the kind of recipe that brings comfort on a chilly evening or makes a busy weeknight feel special. With its creamy texture and delightful blend of flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

This soup is not only delicious but also simple to whip up. Perfect for family gatherings or just a quiet night in, it gives you that homemade goodness without the fuss. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so wonderful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Creamy Comfort: The combination of heavy cream and cheese creates a rich, satisfying flavor that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal the whole family can enjoy.
• Versatile: Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on what you have at home!
• Perfect Portions: This small batch recipe yields about 1 1/2 quarts, ideal for dinner tonight and lunch tomorrow.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this comforting soup! You probably have most of these items in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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)
• 2 cups Shredded Chicken
• 1 can Black Beans (15 oz.; drained – not rinsed)
• 1/2 cup frozen Corn
• 3 cups Chicken Broth
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican Blend)
• 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. each Kosher Salt + freshly cracked Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp. Cumin

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) is how flexible it is! You can easily make adjustments based on your taste preferences or what you have available. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Go vegan: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a plant-based option.

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

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan or medium pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and poblano pepper along with half of your seasoning blend. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. Cooking them this way enhances their sweetness and flavor.

Step 2: Stir in Hearty Ingredients

Now it’s time to add our hearty ingredients! Add in the shredded chicken, black beans, frozen corn, chicken broth, and the rest of your seasoning blend. Stir everything together well. Increase the heat to medium-high until the soup reaches a simmer; let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes to meld all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Make it Creamy

Next up is where we get that lovely creamy texture! Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted completely into that velvety goodness we love.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Allow your soup to simmer for another 15 minutes; this step really helps deepen those flavors! Just before serving, stir in fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve with Love

Finally, divide your hot soup between warmed bowls and garnish with finely chopped cilantro or any toppings you love! It’s time to enjoy this beautiful bowl of comfort!

I hope this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup becomes as cherished in your kitchen as it is in mine! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)

This soup is not only delicious but also super simple to whip up! Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ahead: Chopping your onions and poblano pepper in advance can save time on busy nights. Having these ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like a little extra heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will enhance the flavor profile while still keeping the dish balanced.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds incredible flavor without much effort!
• Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like avocado slices or tortilla strips to add texture and freshness to each bowl.
• Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully! If you find yourself with extra portions, simply let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers. You’ll have a comforting meal ready for another day.

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

Serving this hearty soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this flavorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and crunch.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture that balances the spice perfectly.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices not only look beautiful but also enhance the richness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with this soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup without overpowering it.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips add a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping into your creamy soup.
• Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice can make this meal more filling and serve as a great base for the soup’s robust flavors.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)! It’s perfect for cozy nights in or when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights or cozy lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup!

Can I make this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch) without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to keep it creamy without using any dairy products.

What other toppings can I use for my Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup (Small Batch)?

Feel free to get creative! Some great options include avocado slices, diced red onion, tortilla strips, or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt (or dairy-free alternatives).

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Absolutely! Just cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs in the pot first before adding other ingredients. Shred them once cooked through.

How spicy is this soup?

The spiciness primarily comes from the poblano pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds from the pepper or use less seasoning.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup as much as I do! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on your own. Please give it a try and let me know how it turns out; I can’t wait to hear about your delicious creations!