This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a warm and creamy dish packed with flavor. It combines tender chicken, spicy jalapeños, and cheesy goodness for the perfect cozy meal.
Just a heads up, you might want to make extra because everyone will be coming back for seconds! I love pairing it with some crunchy tortilla chips for that extra yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience or shredded leftover chicken if you have it on hand.
Cheeses: Cream cheese adds creaminess, while cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor. If you need a substitute, you could use Neufchâtel for cream cheese and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for cheddar.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring heat and flavor. If you prefer milder soup, you can use bell peppers or omit them. Canned green chiles are a good alternative if fresh ones aren’t available.
Bacon: Bacon adds a crunchy, salty kick. For a healthier choice, turkey bacon or pancetta work well. You could also skip the meat and use smoked paprika for flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key for this soup. When adding cream cheese, make sure it’s softened to help it blend smoothly into the soup. Here’s how:
- Heat your soup over low heat after adding cream cheese to prevent it from curdling.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese fully melts. If lumps remain, use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
- Adding heavy cream last ensures a rich finish without overcooking it.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3-4 jalapeños, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (both white and green parts)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheese
- Sliced jalapeños
- Crumbled bacon
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will give your soup a flavorful base!
2. Adding Flavor:
Next, add the minced garlic and sliced jalapeños to the pot. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly softened. Make sure to watch them closely so the garlic doesn’t burn.
3. Creating the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. This step adds warmth and depth of flavor to the soup.
4. Creamy Goodness:
Now it’s time to stir in the softened cream cheese. Mix until it is melted and fully incorporated into the broth. This will give your soup that creamy texture we all love!
5. Adding Chicken:
Take your shredded chicken and add it to the pot. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to heat the chicken through and meld all the flavors together.
6. Final Touches:
Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. This is where the magic happens!
7. Seasoning and Green Onions:
Add the chopped green onions (saving a bit for garnish) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir to combine everything.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup hot in bowls. Top with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sliced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy this comforting and spicy bowl of goodness!
You’re in for a treat with this creamy, spicy, and cheesy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup that’s like a warm hug with a little kick!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great for this soup. Just shred it and add it in when it’s time to heat through.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder soup, you can omit the jalapeños or use fewer slices. Alternatively, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before adding them to reduce their heat.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time! Make it, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
What Should I Serve with Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. For an extra kick, serve with a side of spicy pickles or jalapeño cornbread!
