Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup Recipe
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add optional bacon: If using, stir in the crumbled bacon to infuse a smoky, savory note to the soup.
- Simmer and meld flavors: Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes to allow all ingredients to marry and intensify in flavor.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: jalapeño popper chicken soup, spicy chicken soup, creamy chicken soup, jalapeño popper recipe, comfort food soup
