As the golden hour casts its warm glow, I can’t help but crave a bowl of creamy comfort. That’s when I whip up my Chile Relleno Soup, a heartwarming dish that seamlessly combines the deliciousness of roasted poblano peppers and tender chicken. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly nights. With only 5.5 grams of carbs per serving, it’s a fantastic low-carb option that keeps you full with 31 grams of protein. Plus, it’s easy to make, ensuring you can enjoy a homemade dinner without hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of flavor and warmth? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe together!

Why is Chile Relleno Soup a Must-Try?

Creamy Comfort: This soup truly embodies the essence of comfort food with its velvety texture and rich taste.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted poblano peppers and melty cheddar cheese delivers a satisfying flavor that excites your taste buds.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can have this hearty dish ready in under an hour, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Versatile Options: Substitute chicken for tofu or customize with different cheeses to suit your dietary needs, ensuring everyone in the family is happy.

Healthy Indulgence: At just 5.5 grams of carbs and 31 grams of protein per serving, you can indulge without the guilt.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or entertaining friends, this Chile Relleno Soup is guaranteed to steal the show. If you are looking for more delicious comfort recipes, try my Crockpot Chicken Soup or Savory Satay Soup!

Chile Relleno Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Poblano Peppers – Adds a mild, smoky flavor essential for a hearty Chile Relleno Soup; consider canned chilies if you’re short on time.
• Butter – Used for sautéing and adding richness; olive oil is a great alternative for a lighter option.
• Chopped Onion – Enhances the aromatic base; yellow or white onions work best for flavor depth.
• Garlic Cloves – Provides depth of flavor; minced for quick blending into the soup.
• Ground Cumin – Essential for flavoring and warmth; swap with chili powder for a different spice profile.
• Chicken Bone Broth – Forms the soup’s liquid base, but you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken – Adds protein and heartiness; chicken thighs or breasts are perfect for this dish.

For the Creamy Texture
• Cream Cheese – Creates that luxurious creamy texture; Greek yogurt can be a lower-fat substitute.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully into the soup for cheesiness; feel free to use Monterey Jack for a twist.
• Cheese Slices (Cheddar or Pepper Jack) – These are perfect for broiling over the soup, enhancing the delicious cheesiness.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this creamy Chile Relleno Soup a must-try. Ready to enjoy a bowl of comfort? Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chile Relleno Soup

Step 1: Roast Poblano Peppers
Begin by roasting the poblano peppers for your Chile Relleno Soup. Place them directly over an open flame or on a broiler pan set to high. Rotate the peppers every few minutes until they are charred and blistered all over, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Once done, transfer them to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes—this helps loosen the skins.

Step 2: Peel and Chop Peppers
After steaming, carefully remove the skins from the poblano peppers, ensuring to discard any charred parts. Cut open the peppers and remove the seeds, then finely chop the flesh. This will add a smoky flavor and delightful texture to your creamy Chile Relleno Soup, ensuring every spoonful bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, along with your chopped poblano peppers. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic is aromatic, creating a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 4: Simmer Soup
Pour in 4 cups of chicken bone broth, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Add in 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken pieces and allow them to cook until no longer pink, approximately 10 minutes. This step ensures the chicken becomes tender and infuses the broth with delicious flavors.

Step 5: Blend Mixture
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. In a blender, combine 4 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and about 1 cup of the hot broth from the pot. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, then return this mixture to the saucepan, stirring well to combine.

Step 6: Broil Cheese
To finish, ladle the creamy Chile Relleno Soup into ovenproof bowls and top each with a slice of cheese, either cheddar or pepper jack. Place the bowls under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning—it’s all about that glorious gooey cheese topping!

What to Serve with Creamy Chile Relleno Soup?

Elevate your cozy meal with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of your soup beautifully.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: These offer a satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, adding texture to every bite.
Avocado Slices: Creamy and refreshing, ripe avocado adds a cool contrast that enriches the overall eating experience.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty rice option that brings freshness and a hint of acidity, balancing the richness of the soup perfectly.
Zesty Lime Wedges: A splash of lime juice brightens up the flavors in the soup, enhancing its wonderful depth.
Roasted Corn Salad: Sweet corn with a dash of lime and cilantro creates a refreshing side that plays well against the smoky poblano.
Low-Carb Tortillas: These are perfect for scooping up the soup or as a side dish; they’re filling yet light enough to keep the focus on the soup.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: A light and refreshing contrast that works as a starter, perfect for starting your meal on a cooling note before the comforting soup.
Sangria: This fruity drink can add a refreshing touch, blending beautifully with the meal’s rich flavors and enhancing the overall dining experience.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: For a heartier option, these are a cheesy addition that feels indulgent while beautifully complementing the soup’s cheese.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with this guilt-free dessert that highlights the rich flavors of avocado, echoing the smoothness of the soup.

How to Store and Freeze Chile Relleno Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating for the best results.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes in cream cheese, if necessary, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container and allow it to cool beforehand.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently to maintain the creamy texture of your Chile Relleno Soup.

Make Ahead Options

The Chile Relleno Soup is a perfect candidate for meal prep, saving you time during bustling weeknights! You can roast and chop the poblano peppers, as well as sauté the onion and garlic, up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. For even more convenience, cook the chicken and blend the cream cheese and cheddar into the broth, refrigerating this mixture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the soup over medium heat, add your prepped ingredients, and finish with cheese under the broiler for that irresistible melted top. Enjoy a cozy bowl of deliciousness with minimal effort!

Chile Relleno Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize this Chile Relleno Soup recipe to suit your taste, dietary needs, or pantry staples!

Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Not everyone loves a fiery soup, but for those who do, this adjustment adds both heat and depth of flavor.
Rotisserie Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw for a super quick version. Not only will this save you prep time, but it’ll also add a deliciously rich flavor to your soup.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, like smoky Gouda or pepper jack, to change up the taste profile. You’ll find that cheeses can completely alter the mood of your dish—it’s like a new recipe every time!
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with hearty tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. This not only caters to plant-based diets but also keeps the protein levels high.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness. This small addition transforms the flavor cotton candy into something lively and refreshing.
Creaminess Boost: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste and lower fat content. This swap not only lightens the soup but also adds a creamy texture.
Broth Variety: Swap chicken bone broth with vegetable broth for a completely vegetarian version. This simple change ensures everyone at the table can enjoy a bowl.
Topping Choices: Instead of just cheese slices, top with diced avocado and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This creates a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture.

If you’re eager for more comforting soup recipes, be sure to check out my nourishing Crockpot Chicken Soup or the creamy and delightful Lemon Chicken Soup. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Chile Relleno Soup

• Pepper Prep: Ensure your poblano peppers are thoroughly charred for the best smoky flavor. Don’t rush this step; it enhances your Chile Relleno Soup!

• Peeling Made Easy: If skins aren’t coming off easily, give them more time under steam. Proper peeling is crucial for a smooth texture.

• Broiling Perfection: When broiling the cheese, use thin slices to help them melt evenly. Keep a watchful eye to prevent burning your cheesy topping!

• Texture Trick: For a smoother soup, blend in batches if needed, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. This will create that velvety consistency.

• Chicken Choices: You can swap the chicken for tofu or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time while keeping your soup hearty and satisfying.

Chile Relleno Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe poblano peppers?
Absolutely! When selecting poblanos, look for peppers that are firm, smooth, and deep green in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these can indicate overripeness. Ideally, you want them to feel heavy for their size, which means they’re fresh and full of flavor!

How should I store leftover Chile Relleno Soup?
Very importantly, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you plan to enjoy it later, remember to reheat it gently on the stovetop to maintain that creamy texture!

Can I freeze my Chile Relleno Soup?
I often recommend avoiding freezing because the cream cheese can alter the texture when thawed. However, if you need to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and allow the soup to cool first. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on low heat!

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries here! If your Chile Relleno Soup turns out too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Warm it gently on the stove while stirring to ensure it blends well, and you’ll be back to creamy perfection in no time!

Is this Chile Relleno Soup safe for my allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider substituting cream cheese with a dairy-free version or Greek yogurt. For those with chicken allergies, you can replace the chicken with tofu or skip it entirely for a delicious vegetable soup. Just ensure to check all labels for allergens, especially when using store-bought broth.

Can I spice up my Chile Relleno Soup?
The more the merrier! If you enjoy a little heat, mix in diced jalapeños or add some spicy pepper jack cheese during the broiling stage. You could also use spicy chili powder instead of cumin for an extra kick. Tailor it to your taste and enjoy the robust flavors!