Print

Easy and Delicious Guide Recipe

Easy and Delicious Guide Recipe

4.8 from 14 reviews

This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish inspired by the popular jalapeño popper appetizer. Made with tender shredded chicken, spicy jalapeños, cream cheese, cheddar, and a blend of spices, this hearty soup combines heat and creamy textures for a comforting meal perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 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 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 and Toppings

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup crumbled bacon (optional for added flavor)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Add Garlic and Jalapeños: Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  4. Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup pot.
  5. Add Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and incorporated into the soup for a rich, creamy texture.
  7. Add Cheddar and Bacon: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. If using, add the crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
  8. Simmer and Meld Flavors: Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  9. Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

  • Adjust the number of jalapeños to your preferred spice level.
  • The soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
  • This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips for added texture and crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper chicken soup, spicy chicken soup, creamy chicken soup, jalapeño soup, comfort food, easy chicken soup recipe