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Popper Chicken Soup Recipe

4.5 from 119 reviews

This Popper Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish inspired by the beloved jalapeño popper appetizer. Made with tender shredded chicken, spicy jalapeños, cream cheese, and cheddar, this hearty soup combines a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large jalapeños, seeds removed and diced (Adjust number based on spice preference.)
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (Can substitute half with low-fat milk for a lighter version.)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy and Cheese

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Extras

  • 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (Optional for added flavor.)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic and jalapeños: Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.
  3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
  4. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  5. Add cream and spices: Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Incorporate cream cheese: Add the softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until it is fully incorporated and the soup is creamy and smooth.
  7. Melt in cheddar and optional bacon: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. If using, add the crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
  8. Simmer to blend flavors: Let the soup simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
  9. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust the number of jalapeños depending on your preferred spice level.
  • For a lighter soup, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
  • Crumbled bacon is optional but adds a smoky, savory flavor.
  • Use a Dutch oven or heavy large pot for even cooking.
  • This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: Popper Chicken Soup, jalapeño popper soup, creamy chicken soup, spicy chicken soup, comfort food