Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup Recipe
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish inspired by the classic jalapeño popper appetizer. This hearty soup features tender shredded chicken, spicy jalapeños, and rich cheeses, all simmered together for a comforting meal with a kick. Perfect for those who love bold, spicy flavors combined with creamy textures.
- Author: Lena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (Optional for added flavor)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Sauté 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, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Garlic and Jalapeños: Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors and gently infuse the oil with spice.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot to prepare for the creamy additions.
- Add Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, blending the flavors harmoniously.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the pot, stirring until it is fully melted and incorporated, giving the soup a rich and creamy texture.
- Mix in Cheddar and Bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. If desired, add the crumbled bacon for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
- Omitting bacon makes this dish suitable for those who avoid pork or prefer a leaner soup.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting results.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.
Keywords: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup, creamy chicken soup, jalapeño popper soup, spicy chicken soup, comfort soup