Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup

Description:

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a creamy, cheesy, and bold dish packed with the smoky heat of jalapeños, tender chicken, and crispy bacon. Inspired by the flavors of jalapeño poppers, this comforting soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something spicy and indulgent.

Origin:

This soup takes its inspiration from the classic jalapeño popper appetizer, transforming it into a hearty and satisfying dish while keeping the signature combination of jalapeños, cheese, and bacon.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2-3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and diced (leave seeds for extra heat)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 package (8 oz/225g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Extra crumbled bacon
• Sliced jalapeños
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Tortilla strips or croutons

Instructions:

Sauté the Vegetables:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and jalapeños. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Build the Soup Base:

2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.

Incorporate the Creamy Elements:

3. Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid curdling.

Add Chicken and Cheese:

4. Stir in the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Final Touches:

5. Add the cooked, crumbled bacon to the soup, reserving some for garnish if desired. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve:

6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional bacon, sliced jalapeños, cilantro, or tortilla strips.

Tips for Success:

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover grilled chicken for added flavor.
• Adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapeños or adding a dash of cayenne pepper.
• If the soup becomes too thick, thin it with a bit of extra chicken broth.

Recommendations:

• Pair this soup with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a balanced meal.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 6 servings):

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is the ultimate blend of comfort and heat, sure to spice up your dinner table and satisfy your cravings! ️✨