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Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup Recipe

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup Recipe

5.1 from 27 reviews

A comforting and creamy Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup inspired by classic jalapeño poppers, loaded with tender chicken, melted cheeses, and a hint of heat from fresh jalapeños. This hearty soup combines a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and smoky spices for a flavorful meal perfect for chilly days.

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 & Cheese

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

Optional Toppings

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: 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, developing a fragrant and translucent base for the soup.
  2. Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors and mild heat into the mixture.
  3. Cook the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  4. Shred the chicken: Remove chicken from the pot and shred it finely using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot to keep all the flavors combined.
  5. Add cream and spices: Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This enriches the soup with creamy texture and depth of flavor.
  6. Incorporate cheeses: Add the softened cream cheese gradually, stirring until completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, luscious base. Then mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly combined.
  7. Add optional bacon: If using, stir in the crumbled bacon to infuse a smoky, savory note to the soup.
  8. Simmer and meld flavors: Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes to allow all ingredients to marry and intensify in flavor.
  9. Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright, herbaceous finish. Serve immediately for best taste.

Notes

  • Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the spiciness of the soup.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
  • The bacon is optional but adds a delicious smoky flavor.
  • Use fresh cilantro as a garnish to add freshness and color.
  • Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper chicken soup, spicy chicken soup, creamy chicken soup, jalapeño popper recipe, comfort food soup