Creamy Chile Relleno Chicken Soup (Keto & Low Carb)

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 40 min

Ingredients:

• 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
• 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese (thin, sandwich style)

Step-by-Step Instructions (Detailed):

1. Roast the Poblanos 🌶️
   Char the poblano peppers over a gas flame or under the broiler until blistered. Place them in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skins, remove seeds, and blend until finely chopped.
2. Sauté the Base
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic, cumin, and chopped poblanos. Cook until fragrant—about 1 minute.
3. Simmer the Soup
   Pour in the chicken bone broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Add the chicken pieces and cook until fully done (about 10 minutes).
4. Blend in the Creaminess 🥣
   In the same blender used for the poblanos, combine cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Add 1 cup of the hot broth and blend until smooth. Stir this creamy blend back into the soup pot.
5. Finish Under the Broiler
   Preheat your broiler. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, float a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top, and broil 6 inches from heat until bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips:

• 🔁 Make Ahead: Soup base can be refrigerated for 3–4 days and reheated before adding cheese topping.
• 🧊 Freezer-Friendly: Skip the cheese topping before freezing. Add fresh cheese when reheating.
• 🔄 Swap It Out: Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used in place of cheddar for a milder twist.

Nutrition Info Table + Disclaimer:

Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.