Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
This Chile Relleno Soup Recipe is a perfect blend of creamy goodness and vibrant flavors. Packed with roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s an ideal dish for cozy gatherings or family dinners. This low-carb soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a comforting experience that warms you from the inside out. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or at a festive occasion, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of roasted poblano peppers and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
- Low Carb Delight: Perfect for those following a low-carb diet without sacrificing taste.
- Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this hearty soup in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer or main dish, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Cheesy Goodness: The melting cheese on top adds an irresistible creamy finish to each bowl.

Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Chile Relleno Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Food processor or blender
- Ovenproof bowls
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: Essential for simmering the soup evenly and ensuring all ingredients meld together beautifully.
- Food processor or blender: Helps achieve a creamy texture by blending the roasted peppers and cheeses smoothly.
- Ovenproof bowls: Perfect for serving the soup directly from the oven after broiling the cheese topping.
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 Addition
- 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 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 under your broiler. Turn them to char all sides evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Place the roasted peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam. Let them cool, then rub off as much of the skin as possible. Cut out the seeds and chop finely using a food processor or blender.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, and chopped poblanos until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Add chicken broth to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer. Incorporate chicken pieces and cook until they are fully cooked through (about 10 minutes).
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
Combine cream cheese and shredded cheddar in your food processor along with about one cup of hot broth from the soup (avoid adding any chicken). Blend until smooth, then stir back into your simmering soup.
Step 6: Serve Your Soup
Preheat your broiler. Portion soup into individual ovenproof bowls. Float a slice of cheese on top of each bowl. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 6 inches from heat).
Enjoy your delicious Chile Relleno Soup!
How to Serve Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Serving your Chile Relleno Soup is an essential part of enjoying this creamy delight. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
- Sour Cream – Add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess and tang.
- Avocado Slices – Include fresh avocado slices for added richness.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread – Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Corn Tortillas – Pair with warm corn tortillas for a traditional touch.
- Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for an extra zing.
Serving Bowls
- Ovenproof Bowls – Use individual ovenproof bowls for broiling cheese on top, enhancing presentation.
- Large Serving Bowl – Serve in a large bowl for family-style dining, allowing everyone to help themselves.
How to Perfect Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Making the perfect Chile Relleno Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just right.
- Roast Peppers Thoroughly – Ensure the poblano peppers are charred well; this enhances the smoky flavor.
- Use Quality Broth – Opt for homemade or high-quality chicken bone broth for richer taste.
- Blend Smoothly – When blending cheese and broth, make sure it’s completely smooth for a creamy texture.
- Season Gradually – Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook; it’s easier to add salt than to correct too much.
Best Side Dishes for Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Chile Relleno Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Rice – A flavorful rice dish seasoned with tomatoes and spices complements the soup beautifully.
- Refried Beans – Rich and creamy refried beans add protein and pair well with the soup’s flavors.
- Guacamole – Fresh guacamole offers a cool contrast; serve it with tortilla chips for crunch.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Sweet corn topped with cheese and spices adds a delightful sweetness.
- Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a perfect appetizer before soup.
- Quesadillas – Cheese-filled quesadillas can be dipped into the soup or enjoyed alongside it for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Chile Relleno Soup, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the roasting step: Roasting the poblano peppers is crucial for developing their flavor. Always roast them until the skin is charred and blistered for a deeper taste.
- Neglecting to cool and peel properly: After roasting, let the peppers cool and remove the skin thoroughly. This prevents bitterness in your soup.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Add it to the soup just until cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Not seasoning adequately: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and pepper to ensure your Chile Relleno Soup is well-seasoned and flavorful.
- Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good quality cheddar cheese for a creamy texture and rich flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it may not melt as well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Cool the soup completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the soup in an oven-safe dish until hot.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
Chile Relleno Soup is a creamy soup made with roasted poblano peppers, chicken, and cheese. It captures all the flavors of traditional chile rellenos in a comforting bowl of soup.
Can I make this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beans or vegetables like zucchini or corn, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bone broth.
How spicy is this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
The spice level depends on how many seeds you leave in when preparing your poblano peppers. For less spice, remove all seeds and membranes.
Can I customize my Chile Relleno Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like corn, diced tomatoes, or different types of cheese according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Chile Relleno Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you’re craving something warm and comforting. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try; you’ll love how satisfying it is!

Chile Relleno Soup
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this Chile Relleno Soup Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of roasted poblano peppers, tender chicken, and melted cheddar cheese that promises to wrap you in creamy goodness. Perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners, this low-carb soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that satisfies your cravings and warms you from the inside out. In just 40 minutes, you can create a hearty dish that shines at any occasion, whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive celebration. Enjoy rich flavors and a satisfying texture with every spoonful.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 4 medium poblano peppers
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken (cut into pieces)
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Spices: ground cumin, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Roast the poblano peppers until the skin is charred.
- Steam them in a covered bowl, cool, peel, chop, and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add garlic, cumin, and chopped poblanos; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in chicken pieces; simmer until cooked through.
- Blend cream cheese and cheddar with hot broth until smooth, then mix back into the soup.
- Serve in ovenproof bowls topped with slices of cheese; broil until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop/Broiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg