Easy Chicken Poblano and Black Bean Soup

Introduction

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The tender chicken, smoky poblano peppers, and hearty black beans come together in a flavorful, comforting broth that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying balance of protein, vegetables, and spices that will fill you up without weighing you down. With just a few simple ingredients, this soup delivers rich, complex flavors that will leave you craving more.

The first time I made this soup, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The smokiness of the poblano peppers and the subtle heat they brought to the soup made it so much more exciting than a typical chicken soup. As the chicken simmered and the beans softened, my kitchen was filled with a mouthwatering aroma, and I couldn’t wait to sit down and enjoy a bowl. The blend of textures from the tender chicken and creamy beans, along with the touch of spice, was absolutely perfect.

What I love most about this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is how versatile it is. It’s easy to customize, whether you like a bit more heat, or prefer to add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top. It’s also great for meal prep, as the flavors only get better the next day. Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty lunch or a filling dinner, this soup will always be a satisfying, nutritious, and comforting choice.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep lunches
• Cold weather meals
• A light yet hearty dish
• Mexican-inspired cuisine lovers

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup Recipe

Here’s why Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection:

• Full of Flavor: The combination of poblano peppers, garlic, and cumin infuses this soup with deep, savory, and slightly smoky flavors.
• Hearty and Filling: With tender chicken, hearty black beans, and vegetables, this soup is filling enough to be a meal on its own.
• Quick and Simple: It’s made with simple ingredients and can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Customizable: You can adjust the heat level to your liking by varying the amount of poblano peppers or adding chili for an extra kick.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 9g

Ingredients

For this Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup, you will need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Ingredient Highlights

• Poblano Peppers: These peppers bring a mild heat and a smoky flavor, making them a fantastic addition to the soup.
• Black Beans: Packed with protein and fiber, black beans add both heartiness and nutritional value to the soup.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs add lean protein to this dish, making it both filling and nutritious.
• Spices: The cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika combine to create a deep, flavorful base that enhances the entire soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the Poblano Peppers: Stir in the diced roasted poblano peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

Make the Soup:

5. Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder (optional), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

How to Serve Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup

Here are some ways to serve Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup:

• With Tortilla Chips: Serve with a side of crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful contrast to the smooth soup.
• Over Rice: For a heartier meal, ladle the soup over a bowl of fluffy white or brown rice.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a light salad, like a simple avocado and tomato salad, to balance out the richness of the soup.
• With Sour Cream: Top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema for a creamy, tangy touch.
• In a Bread Bowl: For a fun and hearty serving option, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl.

Additional Tips for Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup turns out perfect every time:

• Roast the Poblano Peppers: To bring out the smoky flavor, roast the poblano peppers before peeling and dicing them. You can do this on the stovetop over a gas flame or in the oven.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, add more chili powder or include a finely chopped jalapeño with the onions and garlic.
• Shredded Chicken: For a different texture, you can shred the chicken instead of dicing it.
• Add Corn: For extra sweetness and color, add a can of corn or some fresh corn kernels to the soup.
• Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations for Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with extra black beans or another plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh.
• Sweet Potato Version: Add diced sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and a boost of nutrients.
• Coconut Milk Version: For a creamy, tropical twist, add a can of coconut milk along with the chicken broth.
• Lentil Version: Swap the black beans for green or brown lentils for a different texture and additional protein.
• Spicy Version: Add extra heat by including diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in the soup.
• Slow Cooker Version: Prepare the soup in a slow cooker by adding all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
• Mexican Cornbread Version: Serve the soup with a slice of warm, homemade Mexican cornbread for added flavor.
• Cheese Version: Top the soup with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a melty, savory touch.
• Chipotle Version: Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to give the soup a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Chicken Sausage Version: Use chicken sausage instead of diced chicken for a different flavor and texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

Special Equipment for Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup easier:

• Dutch Oven or Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot helps evenly cook the chicken and vegetables, making it perfect for soups and stews.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes dicing the chicken, onions, and peppers much easier and safer.
• Ladle: Use a ladle to serve the soup neatly and without spilling.
• Roasting Pan or Skillet: If roasting the poblanos on the stovetop, a cast-iron skillet works well.
• Wooden Spoon: Stirring the soup with a wooden spoon helps avoid scratching your pot and allows for easy mixing of ingredients.

FAQ Section for Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup

1. Can I use other types of peppers?
   Yes, you can substitute the poblano peppers with other mild chili peppers, such as Anaheim or bell peppers, for a different flavor.
2. Can I use bone-in chicken?
   Yes, bone-in chicken will work. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving, or cook it separately for easier shredding.
3. Can I make this soup spicier?
   Absolutely! Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh jalapeños to increase the heat.
4. Can I substitute the black beans with another type of bean?
   Yes, you can use other beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, or even navy beans if you prefer.
5. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, this soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat when ready to serve.

Print

Conclusion

Easy Chicken, Poblano, and Black Bean Soup is the perfect balance of comforting and flavorful, with a delicious blend of smoky poblano peppers, tender chicken, and hearty black beans. This simple yet satisfying dish can be whipped up in less than an hour, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With the option to customize the ingredients and heat level, it’s a versatile recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether served with rice, tortilla chips, or simply on its own, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s both nourishing and delicious.

The smoky depth of the poblano peppers complements the tender chicken and rich black beans perfectly, creating a bowl of warmth and comfort that’s ideal for any time of year. The flavors meld together beautifully as the soup simmers, creating a satisfying, soul-warming dish that’s ready in no time.

I can’t wait to see your chicken, poblano, and black bean soup creations! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make this soup your own! Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any ingredient twists or tips you used. Happy cooking!