Description

Dive into the bold and flavor-packed world of Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup! This creamy, comforting soup is inspired by the beloved jalapeño popper appetizer, delivering a delightful balance of spice, creaminess, and savory chicken. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or looking to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 large jalapeños, seeds removed and diced (adjust based on spice preference)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
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)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the Oil

2. In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeños. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables have softened, releasing their aromatic flavors.

3. Step 2: Cook the Chicken

4. Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.

5. Step 3: Shred the Chicken

6. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

7. Step 4: Add the Creamy Goodness

8. Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently incorporate the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the soup has a smooth, creamy consistency.

9. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

10. Ladle the Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup into individual bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon (if desired) and a garnish of fresh cilantro. Savor the irresistible blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors in every delightful spoonful.

Notes

To ensure your Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a resounding success, consider these helpful tips:

Adjusting Spice Levels: The amount of jalapeños used can significantly impact the overall spice level of the soup. Start with 2 large jalapeños and adjust the quantity based on your personal preference for heat. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes before dicing the jalapeños.

Choosing the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner, more tender texture in the soup. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a combination of chicken breasts and thighs.

Making it Lighter: To create a lighter version of the soup, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk. This will reduce the overall calorie and fat content without compromising the creamy texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips: The Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause the dairy ingredients to curdle.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup on its own as a comforting main dish, or serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a well-rounded meal. The rich, creamy soup pairs beautifully with a crisp, cool side to balance the flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 100mg