Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup Recipe
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup inspired by the classic jalapeño popper appetizer. Featuring tender shredded chicken, diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, cream cheese, and cheddar, this hearty soup is perfect for those craving a comforting meal with a bit of heat. Garnished with fresh cilantro and optionally enhanced with crispy bacon, it balances spice and creaminess in every bowl.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (Optional for added flavor)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: 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 and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Jalapeños: Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until it is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Add Cheddar and Bacon: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. If using, add the crumbled bacon for an extra savory flavor.
- Simmer to Blend Flavors: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot for best enjoyment.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat level of the soup.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
- Omit bacon to keep the recipe pescatarian or to reduce fat content.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving can enhance brightness and balance the spice.
Keywords: jalapeño popper chicken soup, spicy chicken soup, creamy chicken soup, jalapeño soup recipe, comfort food, easy chicken soup, spicy creamy soup
