Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup
A comforting and delicious soup that combines spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and tender chicken, perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 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
Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon Optional for added flavor.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Finishing
- Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it is fully incorporated and the soup is creamy.
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. If using, add the crumbled bacon.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For a spicier soup, keep some of the jalapeño seeds in the mix. Use a rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor. Add some corn or black beans for extra texture and richness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.