This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a little kick from the jalapeños that makes it so fun to eat.
Whenever I make this soup, it disappears fast! Pair it with some crunchy tortilla chips, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t make more. Perfect for cozy nights in! 🌶️🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for that touch of smokiness.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add the perfect heat. If you prefer a milder soup, you can use poblano peppers instead or remove the seeds from the jalapeños. For extra heat, try serrano peppers.
Cream Cheese: This gives the soup a nice creamy texture. If you’re watching calories, low-fat cream cheese is a good substitute. You could also use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, but add it at the end to avoid curdling.
Cheddar & Monterey Jack: Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor! If you don’t have it, go for Colby cheese for a mild taste or a blend of your favorites. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese shreds.
Corn: I love the sweetness corn adds! Skip it if you’re not a fan or replace with diced potatoes for a heartier bite.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy and Delicious?
The key to a creamy soup lies in how you incorporate the cheeses and cream. Here’s a simple process to ensure a smooth texture:
- After simmering the broth and chicken, lower the heat before adding the cream cheese. This helps prevent it from curdling.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts into the broth—this usually takes a few minutes.
- When adding heavy cream and other cheeses, keep the heat low and stir until just melted to maintain that creamy consistency.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors!
Following these tips will guarantee a delightful creamy dish that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy making your soup!
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 fresh jalapeños, chopped (reserve a few slices for garnish)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Flavoring:
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Additional shredded cheese, jalapeño slices, and crumbled bacon, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll have a delicious and creamy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s ready, take out the bacon pieces using a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate, but don’t throw away the bacon fat in the pot—it’s full of flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and jalapeños to the pot with the leftover bacon fat. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened. Then, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute or so until it’s fragrant.
3. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a steady simmer. This will help blend all the flavors together nicely.
4. Incorporate Chicken and Seasoning:
Stir in the shredded chicken, and if you like, add the corn kernels. Sprinkle in the oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes. It’s the perfect time to let the flavors meld!
5. Creamy Transformation:
Now, lower the heat a bit and add the cream cheese cubes. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and mixed smoothly into the soup. This is where the magic happens!
6. Add the Cheeses:
Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Keep stirring until everything is melted and your soup looks beautifully creamy. You may need to adjust the heat to ensure it’s heated through but not boiling.
7. Final Seasoning:
Taste your soup and add additional salt and pepper if needed. Remember, seasoning is key to making it delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the soup into bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon, extra jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a nice crunch. Enjoy every spoonful of this rich and spicy soup!
Embrace the warmth of this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup—perfect for chilly days!
Can I Use Low-Fat Ingredients in This Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute low-fat cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the soup may be slightly less creamy but still delicious!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To make the soup milder, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping. If you prefer more heat, consider adding sliced serrano peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the soup ahead of time! Cook it as directed, then let it cool completely before storing in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
What Can I Serve with Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal!