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Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful

A cozy and creamy Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup that warms the heart and soul, perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and is essential for sautéing aromatics.
  • 1 medium Onion, diced Provides a sweet base flavor; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances depth of flavor; fresh garlic is preferred for potency.
  • 2 large Jalapeños, diced Offers spice and flavor; adjust quantity based on spice preference.
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Main protein source; can substitute with rotisserie chicken or chickpeas.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Serves as the soup's base; homemade or low-sodium options preferred.
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Adds creaminess; can be replaced with low-fat milk for a lighter version.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds earthiness and warmth; can substitute with chili powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Enhances color and flavor; smoked paprika can provide additional taste.
  • 1 cup Cream Cheese, softened Brings richness and creamy texture; can swap with a light version.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Adds sharpness and gooeyness; can use Monterey Jack as an alternative.
For Topping
  • ½ cup Crumbled Bacon, optional Adds a salty crunch; omit for a vegetarian version.
  • Salt and Pepper to taste Essential for seasoning; adjust according to preference.
  • Fresh Cilantro for garnish Brightens the dish; substitute with parsley if desired.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
  2. Introduce 3 minced garlic cloves and 2 diced jalapeños. Continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Incorporate 1 pound of chicken breasts and 4 cups of chicken broth. Increase heat to high, bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for about 15 minutes.
  4. Carefully remove chicken, shred into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir and simmer for another 5 minutes.
  6. Add 1 cup of softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.
  7. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted, and mix in ½ cup of crumbled bacon if desired.
  8. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust spice by starting with fewer jalapeños; use rotisserie chicken for convenience. For thicker soup, add extra chicken broth as needed.

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