Name: Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 3 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped; 2 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon spicy taco seasoning; to taste salt and black pepper; 3 cups red enchilada sauce; 2 cups salsa verde; 3-4 cups broth; 1/4 cup hot sauce (optional); 4 tablespoons salted butter; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; to taste yogurt, shredded cheddar, avocado, plus lots of limes and green onions for serving; to taste tortilla chips, for serving

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There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup. I remember the first time I made this meal during a particularly chilly winter evening. The aroma filled my kitchen, drawing my family in from the cold. As they entered, their eyes lit up with anticipation, and I knew I had struck culinary gold. With every spoonful, this dish warmed our hearts and bellies, creating a moment of shared joy and satisfaction. If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that brings the flavors of home together, this is it.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
425 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Saucepan, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

The Beauty of This Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup

It’s a Flavor Explosion

Each bite of Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delightful explosion of flavors. The combination of spicy poblano peppers, zesty enchilada sauce, and tender chicken creates a soup that’s both savory and satisfying. Plus, the addition of toppings like cilantro and tortilla chips adds a delightful crunch.

Perfect for Gatherings

This dish is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a family dinner or a get-together with friends. I love how it encourages everyone to serve themselves and customize their bowls with toppings, creating a shared experience that brings people together.

Quick and Easy

On busy nights, you want something that’s easy to prepare, and this soup fits the bill. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly, freeing up my time to enjoy dinner with my loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen.

Comfort Food at Its Best

When the weather turns cold, there’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to make you feel cozy. Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup has become a staple in our home for that very reason. It’s comforting, filling, and utterly delicious.

Healthy and Wholesome

This soup is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients. From the fresh vegetables to the lean chicken, you’ll feel good serving this dish to your family. It’s a meal that nourishes both the body and soul.

Customization Galore

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level or add extra toppings based on your preferences. Want it spicier? Throw in some jalapeños. Prefer a milder flavor? Skip the hot sauce. The options are endless!

Ingredients Overview for Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup

The ingredients for Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup come together beautifully, creating a medley of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role, ensuring a harmonious balance between spice, creaminess, and freshness.

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – This adds a rich depth of flavor and helps in sautéing the vegetables.
1 yellow onion, chopped – A classic base for many soups, it brings sweetness and aroma.
3 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped – They add a mild heat and unique flavor that makes this soup shine.
2 cloves garlic, chopped – Garlic enhances the overall taste, contributing a fragrant punch.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts – The heart of the soup, providing protein and a satisfying texture.
1 tablespoon spicy taco seasoning – This brings a blend of spices that elevate the soup’s flavor profile.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
3 cups red enchilada sauce – Adds a rich, tangy flavor and a beautiful red color.
2 cups salsa verde – This provides a fresh, zesty element that complements the other ingredients.
3-4 cups broth – The base of the soup, adding depth and richness to the final dish.
1/4 cup hot sauce (optional) – For those who want to turn up the heat!
4 tablespoons salted butter – A final touch that adds richness and creaminess to the broth.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – A fresh garnish that brightens up the entire dish.
Yogurt, shredded cheddar, avocado, limes, and green onions – These toppings add flavor, texture, and freshness.
Tortilla chips – Crispy elements that add crunch and fun!

Preparation Steps for Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup

Making Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup is a joyful experience, and I love how it fills the kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these steps to create your own masterpiece!

In a large soup pot, set over medium heat, add the olive oil. Let it warm up, then toss in the onion, poblanos, and garlic. Sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
Next, add in the chicken and sprinkle the taco seasoning over it. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Pour in the enchilada sauce, salsa verde, and 3 cups of broth. Stir well to combine everything and then mix in the hot sauce and butter.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, keeping the heat at medium. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken easily shreds with a fork.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then stir in the cilantro and a handful of cheddar cheese. Allow the cheese to melt into the soup.
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla chips. You can add a dollop of yogurt, more cheese, green onions, avocado, and any extra cilantro you want.
If you prefer using a crockpot, layer the onion, poblanos, and garlic at the bottom. Add the chicken, taco seasoning, and season with salt and black pepper. Pour over the enchilada sauce, salsa verde, and 3 cups of broth. Mix in the hot sauce and butter before covering.
Cook on low for six to seven hours or on high for three to four hours. Once done, shred the chicken and stir in the cilantro and a handful of cheddar cheese.
Again, serve the soup in bowls and add tortilla chips along with your choice of toppings. Enjoy every bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Balance the Heat: Adjust the spice level according to your preference. The poblano is mild, but you can add jalapeños for more kick.
Shredding Chicken: Let the chicken cool slightly before shredding to avoid burns. Use two forks for easy shredding.
Flavor Development: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors. The longer it simmers, the better the taste!
Freezing Tips: This soup freezes well. Just omit the toppings and add them fresh when serving.

Variations to Try

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some fun variations to make your Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup even more exciting.

Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
Swap the Protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even beans as a vegetarian option.
Experiment with Broth: Try using homemade broth for a richer flavor compared to store-bought.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, add more hot sauce or even chipotle peppers for a smoky flavor.
Top It Off: Experiment with different toppings like crispy bacon bits or pickled jalapeños for a unique twist.
Make It a Casserole: Transform this soup into a casserole by adding layers of tortillas and cheese, then baking until bubbly.
Garnish Creatively: Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a refreshing garnish.

Best Served With

Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of those dishes that shines when paired with the right sides. Here’s a list of perfect companions:

Warm Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread complements the soup beautifully, soaking up every delicious drop.
Rice: Serve with fluffy rice for a heartier meal, perfect for those chilly days.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the soup.
Guacamole: Pairing with guacamole provides a creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor.
Chips & Salsa: Serve alongside tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a fun, casual dining experience.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can be a delightful contrast to the warm soup, adding sweetness and freshness.
Seasonal Veggies: Roasted vegetables in winter or a crisp veggie platter in summer can complement the soup perfectly.

FAQ

Absolutely! Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before serving. The flavors will develop even more overnight, making it even tastier!

Yes, you can easily transform Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup into a vegetarian dish. Simply omit the chicken and replace it with beans, such as black beans or chickpeas. You can also add more vegetables to make it heartier. The soup will still be delicious!

If you don’t have broth on hand, you can use water combined with bouillon cubes or vegetable stock as a substitute. This will still provide a nice base for your Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup. Just make sure to adjust any seasoning as needed, since some bouillon can be saltier than broth.

Yes, you can freeze Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove. It’s a great way to have a quick meal ready to go!

Conclusion

Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup is a dish filled with warmth, comfort, and flavor that you’ll want to return to time and again. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a cold night or something to impress your friends at dinner, this soup has got you covered. I encourage you to try it for yourself; you might just find it becomes a new favorite in your home!