Here’s a rich, flavorful twist on classic stuffed poblano peppers — in soup form! This Creamy Poblano Chicken Rellenos Soup combines smoky roasted poblanos, tender chicken, and a creamy cheesy broth inspired by chile rellenos. It’s cozy, satisfying, and a little spicy. 🌶️🍗🧀
🌶️ Creamy Poblano Chicken Rellenos Soup
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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3–4 poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and chopped
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1 jalapeño, minced (optional for heat)
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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3 cups chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
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1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend)
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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Optional: corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes for extra texture
🔥 To Roast Poblanos (recommended):
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Place poblanos under broiler or over gas flame.
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Turn until blackened on all sides (5–10 mins).
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Transfer to a bowl, cover with foil or plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 mins.
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Peel off skins, remove seeds, and chop.
🧑🍳 Instructions:
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Sauté aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft (3–4 minutes). Add garlic and jalapeño (if using), sauté 1 minute more. -
Add peppers & spices:
Stir in roasted poblanos, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices. -
Add broth & chicken:
Pour in chicken broth and shredded chicken. Bring to a simmer and let cook 10 minutes. -
Make it creamy:
Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Then add heavy cream and shredded cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy. -
Adjust & serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add corn, beans, or tomatoes if desired. Simmer another 5 minutes to blend flavors. -
Garnish:
Top with extra cheese, sliced roasted peppers, crushed tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream.
🧀 Tips & Variations:
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Low-carb/keto? Skip corn/beans and use full-fat dairy.
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No cream cheese? Use a flour roux for thickening instead.
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Want it spicy? Use extra jalapeños or chipotle in adobo.
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Make it vegetarian: Use veggie broth and add beans or grilled zucchini.