What is Chicken Poblano Soup? Ingredients and Recipe Explained

Chicken poblano soup has become a beloved staple in many households who love the bold, comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine. But what exactly is chicken poblano soup and what makes it so distinctive? In this article, I’ll break down the key ingredients, recipe, and prep tips for making this satisfying soup at home

A Closer Look at Poblano Peppers

The star of chicken poblano soup is the poblano pepper These mildly spicy, deep green chili peppers originate from the state of Puebla in Mexico. They have a rich, earthy flavor with just a hint of heat, making them perfect for soups and stews

When roasted, poblanos take on an even more complex, almost smoky taste. Their skin blackens and the flesh softens to a silky texture. To prepare them for the soup, you’ll roast the peppers until charred, steam them to loosen the skin, then peel and dice the tender flesh. This infuses the broth with the peppers’ essence.

Savory Supporting Ingredients

While poblanos may steal the show, chicken poblano soup includes a medley of aromatics and veggies to build maximum flavor

Onions lend a touch of natural sweetness when sautéed. Garlic packs a fragrant punch. Celery contributes an earthy component. Together they create a balanced flavor foundation.

Hearty potatoes like russets add creaminess. Sweet corn kernels provide pops of texture and color. Some recipes even incorporate hominy, a chewy form of dried corn.

Chicken: A Lean Protein

Tender pieces of chicken breast or thigh are simmered right in the broth, absorbing all the complex flavors. This takes the soup to a satisfying, protein-rich main dish level.

For convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken. But cooking the chicken directly in the soup yields the best texture and infusion of spice.

Warm Southwestern Spices

No chicken poblano soup is complete without a blend of signature Mexican spices. Most recipes include:

• Cumin: Earthy and nutty
• Oregano: Faintly sweet and herbaceous
• Chili powder: A smoky, moderately spicy blend
• Cayenne pepper: Adds a fiery kick (use sparingly!)

Adjust the measurements to your desired level of heat. A sprinkle of paprika or dash of cayenne can also intensify the flavors.

Brothy Base

Chicken broth creates the flavorful foundation for the soup. For the richest stock, make it yourself. But quality store-bought broth works well too.

Some recipes also include a splash of enchilada sauce or salsa verde to amplify the Mexican essence. Canned tomatoes can provide tangy brightness too.

Finish with Cream and Garnish

Lastly, a dollop of cream or Greek yogurt adds a luxuriously smooth finish. The dairy also helps tame any lingering spice.

No chicken poblano soup is complete without fresh garnishes. Cilantro, lime juice, avocado, and crumbled cheese are standard toppings. Tortilla strips add Southwestern flair.

Step-by-Step Chicken Poblano Soup Recipe

Now let’s walk through the process of making chicken poblano soup from start to finish:

Ingredients:

• 3-4 poblano peppers
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1-2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1-2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
• Lime wedges, cilantro, avocado, cheese for garnish

Directions:

1. Roast the poblano peppers: Broil the peppers under the oven broiler or over a gas flame until charred all over. Seal in a bowl to steam, then peel. Dice the flesh.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

3. Simmer the broth: Add chicken broth and diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. Cook the chicken: Add chicken breasts and simmer for 15-20 minutes until no longer pink inside. Transfer to a plate to shred or dice.

5. Finish the soup: Return the chicken to the pot along with the corn, spices, and roasted poblanos. Simmer for 10 more minutes.

6. Stir in cream: Remove from heat and stir in the cream or yogurt.

7. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with desired garnishes like cilantro and cheese.

Tips for the Best Chicken Poblano Soup

• For maximum flavor, make the chicken broth yourself. Simmer the chicken carcass with veggies for 1-2 hours.

• Let the onion and garlic simmer in oil for a few minutes to fully bloom their flavors before adding other ingredients.

• For a healthier soup, use low-sodium chicken broth and skip adding heavy cream.

• For spicier soup, add a minced jalapeño when cooking the aromatics.

• Replace half the chicken broth with canned diced tomatoes for tangy brightness.

• Swap corn for black beans to make it more hearty and protein-packed.

• Garnish with fried tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for fun crunch.

• Serve with lime wedges, cilantro, diced avocado, shredded Monterey Jack cheese or Mexican crema.

Chicken Poblano Soup Variations

The beauty of chicken poblano soup is how versatile it is. Try these fun variations:

• Green chicken poblano soup: Use salsa verde instead of red enchilada sauce for a fresh green hue.

• White chicken poblano soup: Skip the enchilada sauce and tomatoes for a creamy white soup.

• Veggie poblano soup: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a meatless meal.

• Cheesy poblano soup: Stir in shredded cheese like Oaxaca, queso fresco or Monterey Jack until melted.

• Southwestern poblano soup: Add cooked chorizo, black beans, corn and garnish with crispy tortilla strips.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Poblano Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep for 3-4 days refrigerated. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.

Satisfying and Simple Chicken Poblano Soup

From its smoky roasted poblano peppers to tender shredded chicken and bold Mexican spices, chicken poblano soup delivers incredible depth of flavor in each spoonful. It comes together with a simple sauté and simmer, making it an easy weeknight dinner option. Top it off with fresh garnishes and serve with warm tortillas for an irresistible homemade meal. Give this hearty soup a try and see for yourself why it has become such a cherished staple. Your family will be asking for seconds!