Name: Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large poblano peppers, roasted and diced; 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, diced; 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 4 cups chicken broth; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup is everything cozy should taste like. It’s a warm hug in a bowl filled with tender chicken, smoky poblano peppers, and a creamy broth that’s both rich and soothing. This isn’t your average chicken soup. It has a bit of a Tex-Mex flair, with roasted poblanos bringing depth and just the right touch of heat, while corn and spices add a gentle sweetness and complexity.

Whether you’re craving something comforting on a chilly night or looking to impress guests with a flavorful first course, this soup delivers. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal with some crusty bread or a side salad, but still feels light thanks to the vegetables and herbs tucked into every bite. Once you make it, it might just become your new favorite soup recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup

The balance of flavors in this soup is incredibly satisfying. The smokiness of the poblanos pairs beautifully with the creamy broth, and the chunks of chicken make it feel like a full meal. It’s also quite forgiving — swap in rotisserie chicken for quick prep, or add black beans and rice to stretch it into something even more filling.

It’s also a great make-ahead option. The flavors deepen overnight, so leftovers taste even better. Plus, it freezes well, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

What Kind of Poblano Peppers Should I Use?

Fresh poblanos are ideal here, especially if you roast them yourself to bring out their smoky essence. They’re generally mild, but every now and then, one packs a little extra heat. If you’re worried about spice, taste your peppers before adding them in. And if you can’t find poblanos, Anaheim peppers are a decent substitute, though slightly less complex in flavor.

Ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup

The ingredients in this soup come together to build flavor in layers. Each one plays an important role in creating the creamy, smoky, and satisfying result.

Poblano peppers – The heart of the soup. Roasted poblanos add smokiness and a subtle heat.
Chicken breast or thighs – Provides the protein and turns this into a filling main dish.
Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the soup.
Garlic – Brings bold, aromatic flavor that infuses every spoonful.
Corn – Adds sweetness and texture. Fresh, frozen, or canned all work.
Chicken broth – Creates the soup base and enhances the savory profile.
Heavy cream – Gives the soup its signature creaminess.
Cream cheese – Adds body and tangy richness.
Olive oil or butter – Used to sauté the aromatics and deepen their flavor.
Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning.
Cilantro – Optional, but adds freshness at the end.

How To Make the Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup

Step 1: Roast the Poblanos

Roast the poblano peppers under the broiler or over an open flame until the skins are charred. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and dice.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until lightly browned on the outside.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Add chicken broth, corn, and diced roasted poblanos. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the soup is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Top with fresh cilantro before serving if desired.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup

This soup serves about 4 to 6 people generously, depending on portion size. It’s perfect on its own for a satisfying lunch or dinner, or alongside a fresh salad or warm bread.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully — just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much after freezing.

What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup?

Crusty Bread

A slice of warm, crusty sourdough or French bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop.

Mexican Rice

For a heartier meal, serve with a scoop of fluffy Mexican rice on the side.

Avocado Salad

Something light and fresh, like an avocado cucumber salad, balances the creaminess of the soup.

Tortilla Chips

Add a crunchy element by serving with tortilla chips or even crumbling a few on top.

Pickled Red Onions

The tanginess cuts through the richness and adds a pop of color.

Jalapeño Cornbread

Cornbread with a kick makes a flavorful pairing.

Grilled Veggies

A platter of grilled zucchini or bell peppers works wonderfully with the smoky tones of the soup.

Want More Chicken Soup Ideas?

If this Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup hits the spot, you might also love these comforting favorites:

Try the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for another creamy and cozy dish.
This Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl packs flavor and protein in one beautiful bowl.
For something extra comforting, check out the Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese that’s perfect on chilly nights.
Don’t miss our White Chicken Enchilada Casserole with a creamy green chile kick.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it anytime you need a comforting bowl of soup.

Let me know in the comments if you made it! Did you add extra spice? Maybe a sprinkle of cheese or crispy tortilla strips on top?

Explore daily dinner inspiration and cozy bowls like this one on Janet Dishes on Pinterest. There’s always something new and crave-worthy to discover.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup brings the best of comfort food and bold flavor into one pot. It’s the kind of recipe you come back to whenever you want something warm and deeply satisfying. From family dinners to meal prep, this soup is flexible, flavorful, and worth making again and again.