Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup

There’s something about a bowl of warm, fragrant soup that wraps around your soul like a well-worn quilt—comforting, nostalgic, and absolutely satisfying. This Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup is just that kind of meal. With tender shredded chicken, smoky roasted poblanos, easy pantry ingredients, and a sprinkle of crunchy tortilla strips, it’s the kind of dinner that feels like a hug from the inside out.

Perfect for both bustling weeknights and relaxed weekend cooking, this cozy soup delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Let’s dive in and make dinner feel like home.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (~1 cup)
• 3 medium poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 500 g (1¼ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder (or to taste)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust as preferred)
• ⅓ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for added depth)
• 1 litre (4 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
• ¼ cup salsa verde (optional—adds a bright tang)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
• 100 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
• 1 ripe avocado, diced, for garnish
• Tortilla strips or broken tortilla chips, for topping

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics
   Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped poblanos, stirring until they soften and the onion turns translucent—about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Season the base
   Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. If using tomatoes, add them now and let everything meld for 1–2 minutes.
3. Add chicken and broth
   Nestle the chicken into the pot and pour in the broth and salsa verde (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Shred the chicken
   Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir gently.
5. Finish with brightness
   Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. If you’re using cheese, add a handful now so it melts beautifully into the warm soup.
6. Serve warm
   Ladle into bowls and top with diced avocado, extra cilantro, and a handful of tortilla strips for that irresistible crunch.

Chef’s Tip: If you’d like a slightly thicker texture, smash a few chunks of avocado into the soup or stir in an extra handful of cheese!

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Poblano peppers: For more smoky depth, char them lightly under the broiler or over a gas flame before chopping.
• Broth saltiness: Low-sodium broth offers better control—adjust seasoning near the end.
• Shredding shortcut: You can shred the chicken directly in the pot using forks or tongs—mess-free magic!
• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it’s thickened.

Recipe Variations

1. Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker fix, or swap in cooked shredded turkey in colder months.
2. Adjust the heat: Like it fiery? Add a pinch of cayenne or a diced jalapeño when cooking the aromatics. For mild flavor, use just one poblano and skip the chili powder.
3. Lighter dairy alternative: Instead of cheese, swirl in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of light sour cream right before serving.
4. Veggie boost: Stir in a can of black beans (rinsed) or a cup of fresh corn for added texture and fiber richness.

Serving Suggestions

• Sides that sing: Pair with warm cornbread or crisp rustic bread to soak up that flavorful broth.
• Garnish delights: Offer lime wedges, chopped green onions, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of crema—or even hot sauce if you’re in the mood for an extra kick.
• Simple a­­nd satisfying: A fresh side salad with bright citrus vinaigrette balances the warmth and richness of the soup beautifully.

Conclusion

a bowl of Poblano Chicken Tortilla Soup that’s equal parts comforting and celebratory. Gather your loved ones, dish it out warm, and enjoy every cozy, flavorful spoonful. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or chatting at the dinner table, this soup is made to bring people together—one heartwarming bite at a time.