Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and rich cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this low-carb soup stands out for its incredible flavor and comforting texture. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted poblanos and spices creates a rich, savory taste that will impress your guests.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this soup in under an hour.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a starter, this soup fits well into any meal plan.
- Low Carb Option: Enjoy all the flavors without the carbs, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
- Comfort Food: Ideal for cozy nights in or festive occasions; it warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before starting your Chile Relleno Soup Recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Food processor or blender
- Ovenproof bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: This allows for even cooking of your ingredients while providing enough space to stir.
- Food processor or blender: Essential for achieving the creamy texture by blending roasted peppers and cheese smoothly.
- Ovenproof bowls: Perfect for serving your soup hot with melted cheese on top.
Ingredients
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 Protein and Creaminess
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (thighs or breasts) (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For Topping
- 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 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 placing them under a broiler set to high. Turn frequently to char all sides evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Once roasted, place the peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them cool. After cooling, rub off as much skin as possible, cut out the seeds, and finely chop in a food processor or blender. 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. Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, and chopped poblanos until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 4: Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken bone broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer. Add chicken pieces and cook until fully cooked through (about 10 minutes).
Step 5: Blend Creamy Ingredients
In your food processor or blender with chopped poblanos, add cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Pour in about 1 cup of hot broth from the soup (avoid chicken pieces). Blend until smooth before stirring back into the soup pot.
Step 6: Serve Your Soup
Preheat your broiler. Ladle soup into individual ovenproof bowls and float a slice of cheese on top of each portion. Place under the broiler about 6 inches from heat until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Enjoy this rich Chile Relleno Soup as a satisfying meal that highlights bold flavors while being easy to prepare!
How to Serve Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some great ways to serve it for maximum enjoyment.
With Fresh Cornbread
- A slice of warm cornbread complements the creamy soup perfectly, adding a touch of sweetness.
Topped with Avocado
- Slices or cubes of fresh avocado on top add a creamy texture that contrasts well with the soup’s richness.
Garnished with Cilantro
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro on each bowl for a burst of flavor and color, enhancing the overall presentation.
Accompanied by Tortilla Chips
- Serve tortilla chips on the side for crunch. They can be used to scoop up the soup or enjoyed as a snack.
Drizzled with Sour Cream
- A swirl of sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess, balancing the flavors of the soup.
How to Perfect Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
To create an unforgettable Chile Relleno Soup, keep these tips in mind. Following these suggestions will enhance both flavor and texture.
- Roast your peppers well: Ensure the poblano peppers are thoroughly charred for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Use quality broth: Opt for homemade chicken bone broth if possible; it greatly improves the taste.
- Blend thoroughly: When combining cheese and broth, blend until smooth for a creamy consistency without lumps.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different cheeses or garnishes like lime juice for added zest.
Best Side Dishes for Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Chile Relleno Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some ideal options to consider.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a filling complement.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip provides a rich contrast and enhances flavors.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas can be dipped into the soup for extra indulgence.
- Chili Lime Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies add nutrition and vibrant flavors alongside the soup.
- Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, these make a tasty appetizer that pairs well with the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Chile Relleno Soup, be aware of these common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the chicken – This can lead to dry meat. Cook just until it reaches 165°F for juicy pieces.
- Under-roasting the peppers – Not charring them enough can leave a raw taste. Ensure they are blistered for the best flavor.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments – Failing to taste and adjust salt and pepper can result in a bland soup. Always season to your preference before serving.
- Not blending thoroughly – Inadequate blending of the cheese mixture can leave lumps. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture.
- Using cold broth – Adding cold broth can lower the soup’s temperature. Always use hot broth for a better cooking process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe bowls for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Chile Relleno Soup Recipe that may help you.
Can I make this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bone broth.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
Shredded cheddar cheese works well, but you can also use pepper jack for extra spice.
How spicy is this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
The level of spice largely depends on the poblano peppers used. They are usually mild but can vary; taste before adding too many!
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Corn, zucchini, or diced tomatoes would be great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a cozy dinner option, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the smoky flavor of roasted poblano peppers with tender chicken and rich cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this low-carb soup not only satisfies cravings but also warms the soul. With its easy preparation and versatile serving options, you’ll find it’s an experience that brings joy to any table. Enjoy it as a hearty main course or a delightful starter at your next gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Dinner
- 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 ounces cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Topping: Slices of cheddar or pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until charred. Let cool, then peel off the skin and chop.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic, cumin, and chopped poblanos.
- Add chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, add chicken, and cook until done.
- Blend roasted poblanos with cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth; stir back into the soup.
- Serve in ovenproof bowls topped with slices of cheese, broil until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 452
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 125mg