This creamy, low-carb Chile Relleno Soup combines roasted poblano peppers, chicken, and cheddar cheese for a comforting, flavorful bowl of goodness. Topped with melted cheese and served piping hot, it’s a hearty dish that will warm you up on any day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chile Relleno Soup is the perfect comforting meal on a chilly day. It’s packed with roasted poblanos, creamy cheese, and tender chicken, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. The result is a hearty, satisfying soup that’s perfect for any occasion and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients

4 medium poblano peppers
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
4 cups chicken bone broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into ½-inch pieces
8 ounces cream cheese
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese (¾ ounce each)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Roast the Poblano Peppers: Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under the broiler until the skin is charred and blistered, turning occasionally. Place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam. Once cooled, peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and finely chop the peppers in a food processor or blender. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and the chopped poblanos. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Simmer the Soup: Add chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer. Add the chicken pieces and cook until the chicken is fully cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Blend the Cheese: In a blender or food processor, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and 1 cup of the hot broth from the soup (avoid the chicken). Blend until smooth, then stir this mixture back into the soup.
Broil the Cheese Topping: Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into ovenproof bowls and float a slice of cheese on top of each. Place the bowls under the broiler about 6 inches from the heat and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8

Variations

Vegan: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to increase the heat level.
Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit more broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors will meld even more.

Can I use a different kind of pepper?

Yes, you can substitute the poblanos with bell peppers or Anaheim peppers for a milder flavor.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add more poblano peppers, or toss in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before storing in airtight containers.

Can I add beans to this soup?

Yes, you can add black beans or pinto beans for extra texture and protein.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or almond cream and dairy-free cheese to replace the cream cheese and cheddar.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. Just shred it and add it to the soup.

Can I serve this with anything else?

Serve with tortilla chips or a side of guacamole for extra flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this soup spicy?

It’s mildly spicy from the poblano peppers, but you can add more heat if desired.

Conclusion

This Chile Relleno Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with roasted poblanos, tender chicken, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s sure to be a favorite for cozy dinners.