Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this creamy soup combines roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and melted cheddar cheese. Its rich flavors and low-carb nature make it a standout choice for those seeking something satisfying yet healthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of roasted poblano peppers and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this soup ready in under an hour.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served as an appetizer, this soup fits well into various meal plans.
- Low-Carb Delight: Ideal for those on low-carb diets, this recipe keeps carbs in check while delivering satisfaction.
- Cheesy Goodness: Featuring plenty of cream cheese and cheddar, every bowl offers a creamy texture that’s simply indulgent.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Food processor or blender
- Ovenproof bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
- Food processor or blender: Helps achieve a smooth texture by blending the roasted peppers and cheeses seamlessly.
- Ovenproof bowls: Perfect for serving the soup directly from the oven with melted cheese on top.

Ingredients
For this flavorful Chile Relleno Soup, you’ll need the following 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 Chicken Mixture
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (thighs or breasts) (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
For Creaminess
- 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 Poblano Peppers
Roast the poblano peppers until the skin is charred and blistered. You can:
* Use an open flame on a gas stove
OR
* Heat your broiler to high and place poblanos within a few inches of it, turning them occasionally to char all sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Place the roasted peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them cool down. Then:
1. Rub off as much of the charred skin as possible.
2. Cut out the seeds.
3. Place in a food processor or blender to finely chop. Set aside.
Step 3: Start Cooking
In a large saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, and chopped poblanos until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 4: Add Broth and Chicken
Stir in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper:
1. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to simmer.
3. Add chicken pieces and cook until fully cooked through (about 10 minutes).
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar into your blender with:
1. About 1 cup of hot broth from the soup (avoid getting any chicken).
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir back into the soup mixture.
Step 6: Serve Your Soup
To serve:
1. Preheat your broiler.
2. Dish soup into individual ovenproof bowls.
3. Float a slice of cheese on top of each bowl.
4. Broil about 6 inches from heat until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Enjoy your creamy Chile Relleno Soup!
How to Serve Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Serving your Chile Relleno Soup can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro: Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
Pair with Crunchy Tortilla Chips
- Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for dipping or sprinkling on top for added crunch.
Top with Avocado
- Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the soup and adds healthy fats.
Serve with Lime Wedges
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
How to Perfect Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Perfecting your Chile Relleno Soup takes just a few simple adjustments. Here are some tips for an even better result.
- Use Fresh Poblanos: Fresh peppers yield better flavor and texture than older, wrinkled ones.
- Control Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by selecting milder or spicier poblanos based on your preference.
- Blend Thoroughly: Ensure the cream cheese is well-blended into the broth for a creamy consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Always taste before serving; adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
Best Side Dishes for Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Complement your Chile Relleno Soup with these delightful side dishes. They add variety and balance to your meal.
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that pairs well with soups; consider using brown rice for a healthier option.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, tomatoes, and lime that adds sweetness to the meal.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that brings additional flavor and texture; serve with tortilla chips.
- Black Bean Tacos: Simple tacos filled with seasoned black beans; they make for a hearty pairing.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables enhance the dish’s flavors while adding a healthy touch.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make an excellent side option.
- Quesadillas: Cheese-filled tortillas that are easy to prepare and perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and contrast to the creamy soup, making it a satisfying meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Chile Relleno Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Bold roasting technique: Not properly roasting the poblano peppers can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure to char the skin thoroughly to enhance the taste.
- Bold seasoning errors: Skipping seasoning or under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you cook to ensure optimal flavor.
- Bold overcooking chicken: Overcooking chicken can make it tough and dry. Aim for perfect tenderness by monitoring the cooking time closely.
- Bold blending mishap: Forgetting to blend the cream cheese with hot broth may result in lumps. Always blend until smooth for that creamy texture.
- Bold ingredient substitutions: Using low-quality cheese can affect the creaminess of the soup. Opt for fresh, high-quality cheddar for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe.
What is a Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
Chile Relleno Soup is a creamy dish made with roasted poblano peppers, chicken, and melted cheese, inspired by traditional chile relleno flavors.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How spicy is this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
The spiciness depends on the poblano peppers used. Poblano peppers are generally mild but can vary. Adjust with additional spices if desired.
How do I customize my Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add beans, corn, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences while keeping it deliciously creamy!
Final Thoughts
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough for various adaptations. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. We encourage you to give it a try; it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe book!
Chile Relleno Soup
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Chile Relleno Soup Recipe, a creamy delight that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This dish beautifully blends roasted poblano peppers with tender chicken and rich cheeses, creating a bowlful of deliciousness that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its low-carb profile and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have this nutritious meal ready in no time. Whether served as a hearty main course or a delightful appetizer, this soup is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 medium poblano peppers
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (cut into pieces)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Roast poblanos until charred; cool and peel.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter, sauté onions until translucent, then add minced garlic and chopped poblanos.
- Pour in chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and add chicken pieces; simmer until cooked through.
- Blend cream cheese with some hot broth until smooth; stir back into the soup.
- Serve in ovenproof bowls topped with cheese; broil until melted and bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg