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Spicy Chicken Poblano Soup With Corn - Cozy, Flavor-Packed Comfort

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2–3 poblano peppers, seeded and diced (leave some seeds for more heat)
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra spice)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned; drained if canned)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for a richer soup)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, plus more to taste
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Sliced avocado, tortilla strips, shredded cheese, or sour cream (optional toppings)

Method
 

  1. Prep the vegetables. Dice the onion and poblano peppers, mince the garlic, and finely chop the jalapeño if using. Keep everything ready by the stove so the cooking flows smoothly.
  2. Sauté the aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, poblanos, and jalapeño. Cook another 3–4 minutes until the peppers soften slightly.
  3. Bloom the spices. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir for 30–45 seconds until fragrant. This step helps the spices release their full flavor.
  4. Add broth and tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer with chicken and corn. Add the shredded chicken and corn. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 12–15 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Finish with cream and lime. Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and the lime juice. Simmer another 2 minutes. If you want more brightness, add an extra splash of lime.
  7. Serve and garnish. Ladle into bowls and top with cilantro. Add optional toppings like tortilla strips for crunch, avocado for creaminess, and cheese or a dollop of sour cream for richness.