Chili Relleno Soup
This Chili Relleno Soup is a delightful twist on a classic Mexican dish, combining the rich flavors of roasted poblano peppers with creamy cheese and tender chicken.
Perfect for chilly days, this soup is both hearty and comforting, making it a great choice for family dinners or cozy nights in.
With a blend of spices and creamy goodness, it delivers a satisfying bowl that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Top it off with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor, and enjoy this deliciously warm bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Chili Relleno Soup is sure to be a favorite for several delicious reasons, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Here’s why people will love this recipe:
Rich and Flavorful Combination
The soup captures the essence of traditional chili rellenos, combining the smoky flavor of roasted poblano peppers with a creamy, savory broth. The blend of spices, including cumin, enhances the depth of flavor, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
Creamy and Comforting Texture
With the addition of cream cheese and melted cheddar cheese, this soup offers a rich and creamy texture that is both satisfying and comforting. The melted cheese adds a luxurious feel, making it a perfect dish for cozy nights.
Hearty and Filling
This soup is packed with protein from the shredded chicken, making it a hearty meal option. The combination of chicken and cheese, along with the vegetables, ensures that it is filling and satisfying, ideal for those looking for a substantial dish.
Easy to Prepare
Despite its rich flavors, this recipe is straightforward and easy to prepare. With simple steps for roasting the peppers and combining ingredients, home cooks of all skill levels can successfully create this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Serving Options
Chili Relleno Soup can be enjoyed on its own or served with a variety of accompaniments. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or even over rice for a complete meal. Additionally, the garnishing options, such as fresh cilantro, allow for customization based on personal preferences.
Key Ingredients:
Poblano Peppers: The star ingredient that provides a smoky flavor and a mild heat, essential for capturing the essence of traditional chili rellenos. Roasting the peppers enhances their taste and adds depth to the soup.
Ground Chicken or Cooked Chicken Breast: Adds protein and heartiness to the soup, making it filling and satisfying. Using shredded cooked chicken makes the preparation quicker and easier.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient contributes to the creamy texture of the soup, helping to create a rich and smooth broth that binds all the flavors together.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a savory, melty element to the soup, enhancing its richness and flavor. It is also used as a topping for that extra cheesy goodness.
Tomato Sauce: Provides a flavorful base for the soup, adding acidity and richness that complements the roasted peppers and spices.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics enhance the soup’s flavor profile, adding savory notes that deepen the overall taste and aroma.
Chicken Broth: Serves as the liquid foundation of the soup, providing a savory depth that melds the flavors of all the ingredients together.
Spices (Cumin, Salt, Pepper): These seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the dish, adding warmth and depth while balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.
Fresh Cilantro: Used as a garnish, it adds freshness and a pop of color, enhancing the presentation and flavor of the soup.
Chili Relleno Soup
Ingredients:
5 poblano peppers (also labeled Pasilla peppers, depending on location)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium sweet onion , diced
3 cloves garlic , minced
1 teaspoon cumin
5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cups chopped or shredded cooked chicken breast
8 ounces cream cheese , softened and cut into very small cubes
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese , divided
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
fresh chopped cilantro , for garnish
Instructions
Step 1:
Rinse and dry the poblano peppers, then roast them until the skin is charred and blistered. You can do this by placing the peppers on a foil-lined baking sheet a few inches under the broiler on high, flipping them once, or by roasting them over an open flame on a gas burner for about 10 minutes.
Step 2:
After roasting, transfer the peppers to a plastic bag and seal it to trap in the steam. Let them cool, then rub off as much of the skin as you can with your fingers or a knife. Cut off the stems, slice the peppers in half, and remove the seeds. Finely chop the peppers and set aside.
Step 3:
In a medium pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté, stirring frequently, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cumin, cooking until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Stir in the chopped poblano peppers.
Step 4:
Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Step 5:
Mix in the cooked, chopped chicken. Add the cream cheese and 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese; whisk until melted and smooth.
Step 6:
Divide the soup into 6 bowls, sprinkling each with the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese and the pepper jack cheese. Place under the broiler until the cheese is melted and golden, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7:
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro and enjoy!
Enjoy!
This flavorful Chili Relleno Soup is perfect for a cozy meal, bringing warmth and comfort to your table!
Notes:
Roasting Peppers: For best results, ensure the poblano peppers are well-charred. This enhances the flavor and gives the soup a smoky undertone. You can use a broiler or grill for this.
Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken. Shredded or diced works well in this recipe.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses! Adding Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can give the soup a unique flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add more beans or vegetables for substance.
Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the amount of pepper jack cheese for added heat.
Storage: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy leftovers later—just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or avocado slices on top can also enhance the flavors.
Garnish: Fresh cilantro adds brightness to the dish, but you can also use green onions or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 350 | Total Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 800mg | Total Carbohydrates: 14g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 3g | Protein: 22g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different types of peppers for Chili Relleno Soup?
While poblano peppers are traditional, you can experiment with other mild peppers, like Anaheim or Hatch peppers, for a unique flavor.
How do I roast poblano peppers for the soup?
Roast the poblano peppers by placing them under the broiler or over an open flame until the skin is blackened.
Seal them in a plastic bag to steam, making it easier to remove the skin.
Can I make Chili Relleno Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
However, add the cheese toppings just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for chicken in this soup?
Shredded turkey or roasted vegetables make excellent substitutes for chicken, providing different flavor variations.
Can I make Chili Relleno Soup vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth.
You can also add beans or tofu for protein.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning under the broiler?
Watch the soup closely under the broiler to prevent burning.
Once the cheese is melted and golden, it’s ready.
Is there a low-fat version of Chili Relleno Soup?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and a moderate amount of cheese to create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze Chili Relleno Soup?
Freezing may alter the texture of the cream cheese, but you can freeze the soup without the cheese toppings.
Add fresh cheese when reheating.
What side dishes pair well with Chili Relleno Soup?
Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad complement the flavors of Chili Relleno Soup.
How spicy is this soup with poblano peppers?
Poblano peppers are mild, so the soup tends to be more flavorful than spicy.
Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer peppers based on your preference.