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Bowl of chicken poblano and black bean soup with tender chicken, roasted poblano peppers, black beans, corn, and fresh cilantro garnish.

Chicken Poblano and Black Bean Soup Recipe – Healthy Mexican Dinner Idea

This chicken poblano and black bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. Tender chicken, smoky roasted poblano peppers, black beans, and sweet corn come together in a savory broth, finished with fresh cilantro. A healthy Mexican-inspired dinner that’s easy to make, filling, and packed with bold flavor!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Dish, Soup
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired, Modern Comfort Food
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Baking sheet (for roasting poblanos)
  • Knife + cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle
  • Airtight containers (for storage/meal prep)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 large poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Garnishes: avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges, tortilla strips

Instructions
 

  • Roast poblanos: Place peppers on a baking sheet under the broiler until skins blister. Cover to steam, peel, and chop.
  • Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
  • Add poblanos & spices: Stir in chopped poblanos, cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
  • Build the soup: Add chicken broth, shredded chicken, and black beans. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.
  • Adjust flavor: Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
  • Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips.
  • Texture note: Broth should be smoky and savory, beans tender but intact, and chicken juicy.

Notes

  • Shortcuts: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Vegetarian option: Omit chicken and add extra beans or tofu.
  • Extra veggies: Corn or zucchini add sweetness and color.
  • Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days; freeze for 2 months (without garnishes).
  • Pro Tip: Always roast poblanos until blistered for that signature smoky flavor.
Keyword black bean soup, chicken poblano soup, healthy soup recipe, Mexican comfort food, smoky chicken soup