Chile Relleno Soup Recipe

This Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and a generous amount of cheddar cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends, this soup is not only delicious but also low in carbs, making it a suitable choice for various dietary needs. The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout meal that will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted poblanos and spices creates a rich, savory taste that you won’t forget.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe can be made in under an hour.
• Low Carb Option: This soup fits well into low carb diets without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl of goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your delicious Chile Relleno Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Food processor or blender
• Ovenproof bowls
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: This allows you to cook all the ingredients together evenly without overcrowding.
• Food processor or blender: Essential for achieving that smooth texture when blending the roasted peppers and cheeses.
• Ovenproof bowls: These are perfect for serving your soup with melted cheese on top, enhancing both presentation and taste.

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 Creamy Finish

• 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 and turn them occasionally 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 down, then rub off as much of the skin as you can. Cut out the seeds and place them in a food processor or blender to finely chop. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Spices

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook while stirring frequently until translucent—about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic, ground cumin, and chopped poblanos; stir until fragrant (approximately 1 minute).

Step 4: Add Broth and Chicken

Stir in the chicken bone broth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer. Add cut chicken pieces and continue cooking until fully cooked (about 10 minutes).

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar into the same food processor where you chopped the poblanos. Pour about 1 cup of hot broth from your soup into this mixture (avoiding chicken). Blend until smooth before stirring back into your pot.

Step 6: Serve with Cheese Topping

Preheat your broiler. Dish out servings of soup into individual ovenproof bowls. Float one slice of cheese on top of each portion. Set these under the broiler about 6 inches from heat source until cheese melts and bubbles—watch closely!

How to Serve Chile Relleno Soup Recipe

This creamy and hearty Chile Relleno Soup is perfect for a cozy meal. You can enhance the dining experience with various toppings and sides that complement its rich flavors.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh, herbal flavor.
• Sour Cream – Add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess and tang.
• Avocado Slices – Top with fresh avocado for added richness and texture.
• Lime Wedges – Serve with lime wedges to add a zesty kick when squeezed over the soup.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Bread – Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Tortilla Chips – Offer crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor contrast.

Cheese Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – Extra shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese can be melted on top for gooey goodness.
• Queso Fresco – Crumbled queso fresco provides a mild, creamy finish to each bowl.

Save it!

How to Perfect Chile Relleno Soup Recipe

Creating the best Chile Relleno Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Fresh Poblanos – Select firm, unblemished poblanos for roasting to achieve the best flavor and texture.
• Use Quality Broth – Opt for homemade chicken bone broth if possible; it enhances the soup’s richness significantly.
• Blend Smoothly – When blending cream cheese and cheddar, ensure it’s completely smooth for a velvety texture in your soup.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken – Cook the chicken just until done; this keeps it tender and prevents dryness.

Best Side Dishes for Chile Relleno Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chile Relleno Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a perfect companion to balance the soup’s creaminess.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add protein and fiber, making the meal more filling.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the spicy soup flavors.
4. Guacamole – This rich dip can be served alongside tortilla chips as an appetizer or topping.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn slathered in mayo, cheese, and spices complements the dish beautifully.
6. Chips and Salsa – A classic starter that adds crunch and freshness before diving into the main soup course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chile Relleno Soup can be a wonderful experience, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

• Ignoring Pepper Preparation: Failing to properly roast and peel the poblano peppers can lead to a harsh flavor. Always roast them until charred for the best taste.
• Overcooking Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Add it to the soup only after it has come to a simmer for optimal tenderness.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning your broth enough can result in bland soup. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cream cheese directly from the fridge can cause lumps. Let it sit at room temperature before using.
• Neglecting Texture: Blending all ingredients too finely can eliminate texture. Keep some chunks of pepper and chicken for a hearty feel.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chile Relleno Soup will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chile Relleno Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chile Relleno Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

What is Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?

Chile Relleno Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup made with roasted poblano peppers, chicken, and cheese, inspired by the classic Mexican dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with extra vegetables or beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bone broth.

How do I adjust spice levels in Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?

You can add more poblanos or include jalapeños if you prefer more heat. Conversely, use fewer peppers for a milder flavor.

How do I store leftover Chile Relleno Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Give it a try; you’ll love how delightful and satisfying each bowl is!