Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Mexican dish, combining the rich flavors of roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and a creamy cheese base. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this low-carb soup is both satisfying and comforting. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a must-make recipe in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of roasted poblanos and melted cheese creates a luxurious taste that will impress everyone.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering.
- Low Carb Delight: This soup fits perfectly into low-carb diets while still being hearty and filling.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or cilantro for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you will need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Food processor or blender
- Ovenproof bowls
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: Ideal for simmering the soup, ensuring even cooking of the chicken and blending flavors.
- Food processor or blender: Helps create a smooth texture by finely chopping the roasted peppers and blending ingredients seamlessly.
- Ovenproof bowls: Perfect for serving; they allow you to broil the cheese directly on top for that melty goodness.
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 Peppers
- 4 medium poblano peppers
For the Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
For the Soup
- 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 Creaminess
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For Serving
- 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 Peppers
Roast the poblano peppers until their skin is charred and blistered. You can achieve this over an open flame on a gas stove or by using your broiler set to high. Remember to turn them frequently for even charring.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Place the roasted peppers in a bowl and cover them with plastic wrap. Let cool before rubbing off as much skin as possible. Cut out the seeds, then place them in a food processor or blender to chop finely. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and cook while stirring until translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add minced garlic, ground cumin, and chopped poblanos, stirring until fragrant—approximately 1 minute.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken
Stir in the chicken bone broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer. Add in chicken pieces and cook until they are fully cooked through—about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
In your food processor (the same one used for peppers), combine cream cheese and shredded cheddar along with about 1 cup of hot broth from your soup (avoid adding pieces of chicken). Blend until smooth before stirring back into your soup pot.
Step 6: Broil to Finish
To serve, preheat your broiler. Ladle soup into individual ovenproof bowls then float a slice of cheese on top. Broil those bowls about six inches from heat until melted and bubbly.
Enjoy your delicious Chile Relleno Soup!
How to Serve Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Serving the creamy Chile Relleno Soup can elevate your dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are a few ideas on how to present this delicious dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor of the soup.
Add a Dollop of Sour Cream
- A spoonful of sour cream on top provides a creamy contrast and balances the spice of the poblanos.
Serve with Tortilla Chips
- Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping and add texture to each spoonful.
Pair with Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices bring richness to the dish, making every bite feel indulgent.
How to Perfect Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
To ensure your Chile Relleno Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Roast Poblano Peppers Well: Make sure the skin is charred completely for a smoky flavor that enhances the soup.
- Use High-Quality Broth: Opting for homemade or low-sodium chicken broth can improve the overall taste significantly.
- Blend Carefully: When blending the cheeses, do it gradually, adding only enough broth to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference for a well-balanced flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
A variety of side dishes can complement your Chile Relleno Soup beautifully. Here are some great options.
- Mexican Rice: This flavorful rice dish pairs well, soaking up the soup’s deliciousness.
- Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread adds warmth and sweetness that contrasts nicely with spicy flavors.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad adds protein and freshness, balancing the heaviness of the soup.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is an excellent dip that enhances flavors while providing healthy fats.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas make for a hearty side that complements the rich soup well.
- Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a fun crunch alongside each bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Chile Relleno Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the roasting step: Roasting the poblano peppers intensifies their flavor. Avoid this mistake by ensuring you char the skin thoroughly before peeling.
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Not seasoning correctly: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
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Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook just until it’s no longer pink, typically around 10 minutes, to keep it tender.
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Using low-quality broth: The flavor of your soup relies heavily on the broth. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken bone broth for the best taste.
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Neglecting to blend well: Not blending cream cheese and cheddar into the soup properly can lead to lumps. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Allow it to cool completely before sealing for storage.
Freezing Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
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Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
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Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, usually about 3-5 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.
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Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through, about 8-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chile Relleno Soup that might help!
Can I make this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bone broth for a hearty vegetarian option.
What toppings go well with this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
You can add avocado slices, cilantro, or extra cheese as toppings. A dollop of sour cream also adds creaminess.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference!
Can I prepare this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve for easy meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables based on your taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this creamy Chile Relleno Soup Recipe, a cozy and satisfying dish that brings together roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and a luscious cheese blend. Ideal for any occasion, this low-carb soup is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a delightful bowl of comfort that’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings like avocado and cilantro. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this soup is a must-have in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 medium poblano peppers
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken (cut into pieces)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Ground cumin, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until charred. Cover and let cool before peeling off the skin and removing seeds.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and ground cumin.
- Stir in chicken bone broth and season with salt and pepper. Add chicken pieces and simmer until cooked through.
- Blend cream cheese and shredded cheddar with hot broth until smooth, then stir back into the soup pot.
- Ladle soup into ovenproof bowls, top with slices of cheese, and broil until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg