The aroma of roasted poblano peppers fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Mexican café where every bite sings with warmth and comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my Creamy Keto Chile Relleno Soup recipe, a nourishing hug in a bowl that’s perfect for chilly evenings. With just 5.5g of carbs and a whopping 31g of protein per serving, this low-carb delight is not only a hearty meal but also a fantastic way to indulge without the guilt. Imagine savoring every creamy, cheese-infused spoonful while sticking to your dietary goals! Plus, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without hours spent in the kitchen. Ready to learn how to make this velvety soup that captures all the flavors of the beloved Chile Rellenos? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Soup So Irresistible?

Comforting warmth: This Creamy Keto Chile Relleno Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, ideal for chilly evenings.
Flavor explosion: The combination of roasted poblanos, cheddar, and spices creates a robust taste that satisfies your cravings.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep and just one pot, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time.
Diet-friendly: With only 5.5g of carbs and 31g of protein per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that won’t derail your keto journey.
For a complete meal, consider pairing with Homemade Chicken Soup for added nutrition and comfort. Enjoy every creamy spoonful knowing you’re indulging safely!

Chile Relleno Soup Ingredients

• Discover the key components for this creamy delight!

For the Soup Base

Poblano Peppers – A mild, flavorful base that becomes sweet when roasted.
Butter – Adds richness; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Onion – Essential for flavor; sauté until translucent for the best aroma.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic intensifies the flavor and aroma.
Ground Cumin – Adds warmth that beautifully complements roasted peppers.
Chicken Bone Broth – The savory base for this soup; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian twist.

For the Protein

Boneless Skinless Chicken – Provides hearty protein; use thighs or breasts cut into bite-sized pieces.

For Creaminess

Cream Cheese – Essential for that velvety texture; sour cream can replace it for a tangy flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers a sharp flavor; pepper jack can spice things up if desired.

For Topping

Cheddar or Pepper Jack Cheese Slices – Use these for broiling on top; they melt beautifully and add a creamy finish.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a satisfying Chile Relleno Soup that’s perfect for keeping warm and cozy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chile Relleno Soup

Step 1: Roast Peppers
Start by charring 2-3 poblano peppers over an open flame or in the broiler until their skins are blistered and blackened, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Once roasted, place them in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for 10 minutes. After cooling, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers into small pieces.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Then stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and the chopped roasted poblano peppers, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, creating a delightful aroma for your Chile Relleno Soup.

Step 3: Simmer Soup
Pour 4 cups of chicken bone broth into the saucepan, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once boiling, add 1 pound of bite-sized boneless, skinless chicken pieces, and cook for approximately 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This creates a hearty, savory base for your soup.

Step 4: Blend Mixture
Carefully transfer about 1 cup of the hot soup base into a blender. Add 4 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, then return it to the saucepan. This step adds a luscious texture to your Chile Relleno Soup, ensuring each spoonful is rich and satisfying.

Step 5: Broil & Serve
Preheat your broiler. Ladle the soup into ovenproof bowls and float a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top of each portion. Place the bowls under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a deliciously indulgent finish. Your creamy Chile Relleno Soup is now ready to be enjoyed!

Expert Tips for Chile Relleno Soup

Roasting Perfection: Ensure the poblanos are turned frequently during roasting to achieve even charring and the best flavor infusion.
Spice it Up: If you’re craving more heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or consider using hotter varieties of peppers instead of poblanos.
Blending Safely: To avoid splashes, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending if you’re using a standard blender. This step ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Cheese Topping Tip: Use large deli cheese slices for easy broiling; they perfectly cover the soup bowls for a lovely melted finish.
Quick Prep Variation: For a no-fuss option, swap chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, saving you time in the kitchen while keeping flavor intact.

What to Serve with Creamy Keto Chile Relleno Soup

A comforting bowl of creamy goodness deserves delightful companions to complete the meal experience.

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a fresh, buttery flavor complementing the rich soup perfectly. Sprinkle with lime for a zesty touch!
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness, perfectly balancing the savory notes of the chile soup. It’s that extra touch your taste buds will love!
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread muffins make a lovely pair, offering a delightful texture contrast to the creamy soup. Enjoy them warm with melting butter for a cozy vibe.
Sour Cream Dollop: A dollop of tangy sour cream not only enhances the flavors but also adds a luscious creaminess to each spoonful of the soup.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa provide the perfect crunch, creating a wonderful textural balance while adding a flavorful kick.
Grilled Chicken Salad: A light grilled chicken salad tossed with lime vinaigrette offers a fresh, protein-rich option that complements the hearty soup without overwhelming it.
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing beverage, pair with sparkling water infused with fresh lime; it cleanses the palate while enjoying the rich flavors of the soup.

Chile Relleno Soup Variations

Enhance your Chile Relleno Soup experience with these exciting variations—each bringing its own delightful twist to this comforting classic!

Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives for a creamy, non-dairy option. You’ll still capture that luscious texture without the lactose!
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with canned chickpeas or your favorite beans to maintain protein while keeping it plant-based and hearty. This makes for a filling meal.
Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for a fiery kick. The heat will elevate the flavors and warm you right up!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a delightful smoky twist. It adds depth that complements the roasted flavors beautifully.
Chunky Version: Instead of blending, simply mash some of the soup mixture for a chunkier texture. This offers a different mouthfeel while still being creamy and delicious.
Zest it Up: Squeeze fresh lime juice just before serving—it brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing layer that makes each bite pop!
Herb Infusion: Stir in freshly chopped cilantro or parsley toward the end of cooking for a burst of herbal freshness that enhances the dish.

And, if you’re up for exploring even more comforting options, consider adding a side of Homemade Chicken Soup to round out your meal. Whichever variation you choose, feel free to make this soup uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Keto Chile Relleno Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade goodness even on the busiest nights! You can roast the poblano peppers and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the soup can be simmered and blended up to 3 days ahead; just keep it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply add the cooked chicken and broil the cheese until bubbly for that fresh, indulgent finish. This method ensures every bowl remains just as rich and comforting as when freshly made!

Storage Tips for Chile Relleno Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep your creamy Chile Relleno Soup fresh and delicious.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the smooth texture and prevent separation.

Freezer: Avoid freezing as the creaminess may separate upon thawing, altering the delightful consistency of the soup.

Serving Fresh: For the best flavor experience, enjoy your leftovers within a few days for optimal taste and quality.

Chile Relleno Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best poblano peppers?
Look for poblano peppers that are firm and shiny without any dark spots or blemishes. Ideally, you want peppers that have a vibrant green color and feel heavy for their size. For the best flavor, choose peppers that feel taut and smooth.

What’s the best way to store leftover Chile Relleno Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will keep it fresh and delicious. When reheating, do so gently over low to medium heat to maintain the creamy texture without separation.

Can I freeze Chile Relleno Soup?
I don’t recommend freezing this soup, as the creaminess may separate upon thawing, which could lead to a less appealing texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge for optimal taste and quality.

What if the soup is too thick?
If you find your Chile Relleno Soup is too thick for your liking, simply add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually until you achieve the perfect texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.

Is this soup suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute cream cheese and shredded cheddar with plant-based alternatives. Make sure your chosen products align with your dietary preferences, and you can still enjoy this delicious Chile Relleno Soup without any dairy.

Can I adjust the spice level in the soup?
Yes! If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding chopped jalapeños during the sautéing step or using hotter varieties of peppers instead of poblanos. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper for an extra kick! Adjust according to your heat tolerance for the perfect balance.