When the weather turns chilly and you find yourself craving something warm and comforting, chicken poblano soup is the answer. This delightful dish combines succulent chicken with the smoky heat of poblano peppers, creating a bowl that warms both your body and soul. The moment you take that first spoonful, the rich aromas swirl around you, promising an experience that is as satisfying as a cozy blanket on a rainy day.
Picture this: you’re snuggled up on your couch, a fluffy blanket draped over your legs, and a steaming bowl of chicken poblano soup in hand. Each mouthful bursts with flavor—tender chicken mingles with vibrant vegetables while the creamy broth wraps around everything like a warm hug. Whether it’s game night, family Sunday dinner, or just a weeknight treat, this soup will make every occasion feel special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious chicken poblano soup is incredibly easy to whip up for any skill level in the kitchen
- Its complex flavors will make your taste buds dance while serving as an eye-catching centerpiece at your table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry!
I remember the first time I made this soup; my friends were skeptical at first but ended up licking their bowls clean!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are perfect for this recipe; adjust based on your guest list.
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Poblano Peppers: Fresh and vibrant ones add smokiness; look for firm peppers without blemishes.
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Onion: A medium onion brings sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh cloves amplify flavor; don’t skimp—more garlic equals more yum!
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while letting flavors shine through.
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Cream (or Coconut Milk): For a luxurious finish; it adds richness without overpowering other flavors.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens each bite; chop it finely for maximum flavor release.
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Lime Juice: A squeeze at the end adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
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Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These give depth; adjust to your heat preference for a kick!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.
Add Garlic & Peppers: Toss in minced garlic along with diced poblano peppers. Cook until softened for about 3-4 minutes. The smell will be heavenly!
Cook the Chicken: Add boneless chicken breasts into the pot. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything completely. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender.
Shred & Season : Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks—this is when things get fun! Return shredded chicken back into the pot.
Add Creamy Goodness : Stir in cream or coconut milk along with cumin and chili powder. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes to meld those glorious flavors.
Finishing Touches : Squeeze fresh lime juice into the pot and sprinkle chopped cilantro before serving. Give it one last stir, then ladle into bowls.
Now grab that fuzzy blanket because you’re ready to dive into a soul-satisfying bowl of chicken poblano soup!
You Must Know
- This chicken poblano soup warms the soul and satisfies the belly
- Its creamy texture and spicy kick make it a favorite for chilly evenings
- You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or fewer poblano peppers, ensuring it’s perfect for everyone
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken to get a golden sear. Once the chicken is cooked through, toss in your diced poblanos and broth for simmering bliss.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add black beans for extra protein. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy finish that takes it to another level.
Storing & Reheating
Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and infuse flavor into your soup
- For more depth, try roasting your poblanos before adding them
- Don’t skimp on fresh herbs; they elevate every spoonful!
Sometimes my friends jokingly refer to this as “the soup that saves lives.” One bowl brings everyone together, and I’ve seen even picky eaters ask for seconds!

FAQ
What can I substitute for poblanos in chicken poblano soup?
You can use bell peppers or jalapeños for different flavor profiles and heat levels.
Can I make chicken poblano soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or increase the number of poblano peppers for a fiery kick.
Chicken Poblano Soup
Chicken Poblano Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. This creamy, flavorful soup combines tender chicken, smoky poblano peppers, and aromatic spices that create a warm, inviting dish perfect for snuggling up with on a cold night. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 large poblano peppers (diced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and diced poblano peppers; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
- Add chicken breasts and cover with chicken broth. Simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in cream or coconut milk, cumin, and chili powder. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finish with lime juice and chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg


