Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish. Rich and creamy with roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, this soup brings comfort to any occasion. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a low-carb favorite that will please everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Creaminess: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar creates a velvety texture that makes each spoonful luxurious.
- Flavor-Packed: Roasted poblano peppers add a smoky depth that elevates this soup beyond traditional recipes.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have this delicious meal ready in under an hour.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a hearty main course or as a starter for your next dinner party; it fits any occasion.
- Low-Carb Delight: This soup is perfect for those following low-carb diets without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Chile Relleno Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Food processor or blender
- Ovenproof bowls
- Broiler
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
- Food processor or blender: Helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency by blending the roasted peppers and cheeses effortlessly.
- Ovenproof bowls: Perfect for serving individual portions that can be broiled to melt the cheese on top.

Ingredients
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is filled with roasted poblano peppers, chicken, and plenty of cheddar cheese. It’s a must-make low-carb soup recipe!
For the Soup Base
- 4 medium poblano peppers
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (thighs or breasts) (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
For the Creaminess
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese (thin sandwich slices, 3/4 ounce each)
How to Make Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Poblano Peppers
Roast the poblano peppers until the skin is charred and blistered. You can do this over an open flame on a gas stove or by heating your broiler to high. Place poblanos within a few inches of the broiler, turning them to get all sides charred.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Place the roasted peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them cool for about 10 minutes. Rub off as much skin as possible, cut out the seeds, and then place them in a food processor or blender to finely chop. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add garlic, cumin, and chopped poblanos; stir until fragrant for about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Broth and Chicken
Stir in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to simmer. Add chicken pieces and continue cooking until fully cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar into your food processor along with about 1 cup of hot broth from the soup (be careful not to include any chicken). Blend until smooth then return this mixture back into the soup pot.
Step 6: Serve with Melted Cheese
Preheat your broiler. Portion out the soup into individual ovenproof bowls and float a slice of cheese on top of each serving. Place under the broiler (about 6 inches from heat) until melted and bubbly.
Enjoy your creamy Chile Relleno Soup!
How to Serve Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Cilantro – Adds a fresh and vibrant flavor.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – A dollop adds creaminess and tang.
- Sliced Avocado – Provides a rich texture and flavor contrast.
Pair with Bread
- Crusty Bread – Great for dipping and soaking up the soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks – A tasty accompaniment that adds extra flavor.
Serve in Unique Bowls
- Individual Ovenproof Bowls – Enhance presentation and keep the soup warm.
- Bread Bowls – For a fun twist, serve the soup in edible bread bowls.
How to Perfect Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
To make your Chile Relleno Soup truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Poblanos – Fresh peppers provide better flavor and texture.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Add more cumin or jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Blend Thoroughly – Ensure the cream cheese and cheddar are well incorporated for a smooth texture.
- Simmer Gently – Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Pairing your Chile Relleno Soup with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the soup nicely.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread balances the heat of the soup perfectly.
- Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad that provides protein and a burst of flavor.
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds richness that pairs well with the soup.
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips offer a delightful texture contrast when dipped into the soup.
- Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned veggies add a healthy side option that complements the flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Chile Relleno Soup, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Not roasting the peppers properly: Ensure that your poblano peppers are charred all over. This adds a deep flavor to the soup. Use a broiler or an open flame for even roasting.
- Skipping the cooling step: After roasting, allow the peppers to cool before peeling. This step is crucial for easy skin removal and enhances the soup’s overall texture.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken until just done, about 10 minutes. Overcooking can lead to tough pieces in your soup.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your broth after adding ingredients. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for a balanced flavor profile.
- Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good quality cheddar cheese for melting. It will make the soup creamier and more flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Cool the soup completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
- Stovetop: Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious Chile Relleno Soup.
What is a Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
Chile Relleno Soup combines roasted poblano peppers, chicken, and creamy cheeses into a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect any time of year.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or additional vegetables like zucchini and corn for a hearty vegetarian version.
How can I customize my Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or jalapeños for extra heat. You can also top it with fresh cilantro or avocado slices when serving.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Chile Relleno Soup is great for meal prep. It stores well and can be easily reheated throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is not just comforting but incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and customizable options, you can tailor it to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Chile Relleno Soup
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a must-try! With its rich and creamy base, filled with roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and gooey cheddar cheese, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. Quick and easy to prepare, it can be on your table in under an hour, making it an ideal low-carb option that everyone will love. Whether served as a main course or a starter, this delicious Mexican-inspired soup promises to satisfy your taste buds while keeping your meal healthy and hearty.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 medium poblano peppers
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (cut into pieces)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Roast the poblano peppers until charred on all sides using a gas stove flame or broiler.
- After cooling, peel off the skin, remove seeds, and finely chop the peppers.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic, cumin, and chopped poblano; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then add chicken pieces and simmer until cooked through.
- Blend cream cheese and shredded cheese with some hot broth until smooth; stir back into the soup.
- Serve in ovenproof bowls topped with slices of cheese melted under the broiler.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg